Traders in Kaduna State have appealed to the state government for financial support to revive their struggling businesses, citing capital losses, economic hardship, and rising operational costs as key challenges facing the market community.
The appeal was made during a stakeholders’ town hall meeting organised by the Kaduna Market Development and Management Company to identify pressing issues affecting traders and explore possible solutions.
Chairman of Kasuwar Barci Market, Alhaji Bala Milton, expressed concern over the neglect of market communities by previous administrations, which he said had forced many traders out of business or compelled them to relocate to neighbouring countries.
“We traders have never experienced this kind of dialogue before. We raised our concerns, and they said they would take action,” Milton said.
He urged the government to introduce direct support for traders through grants or interest-free loans, similar to financial interventions made in the agricultural sector.
“People are ready to be helped. If the government steps in, Kaduna will move forward,” he added.
Echoing similar sentiments, Aliyu Patengi, Chairman of Kakuri Market, decried the high cost of shop rents in newly constructed market facilities, saying it has discouraged many traders from returning.
“The traders have been financially broken. Many have lost their capital. If the government could support us with loans or grants, it would help a lot,” Patengi said.
He noted that the situation worsened following the demolition of shops by previous administrations, which displaced many traders and led to significant financial losses.
Hadiza Abdulaziz, Women Leader of the Kaduna State Markets Association, commended the organisers for the dialogue and urged the state government to pay close attention to the needs of market women.
“We need grants and real support. Government should listen to the voices of women traders,” she said.
In response, the newly appointed Acting Managing Director of the Kaduna Market Development and Management Company, Ahmed Shehu, said Governor Uba Sani had directed the agency to directly engage with traders and find sustainable solutions to their concerns.
“His Excellency has specifically asked us to sit down with you—the marketers and traders—because you are his people and he doesn’t want anything to affect you,” Shehu said.
He assured stakeholders that all grievances and requests would be compiled and reported to the Governor for appropriate action, adding that such engagements would continue in the form of regular town hall meetings.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Business Innovation and Technology, Mrs. Patience Fakai, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to revitalising the market system in Kaduna State.
She disclosed that the government was working to complete abandoned market complexes and uncompleted buildings, with plans to hand them over to rightful beneficiaries.
“Ongoing efforts include road construction around key markets like Panteka, as well as the establishment of clinics and ICT centres to support economic activities and improve the welfare of traders,” Fakai said.
The meeting marks a significant step in fostering dialogue between government and market stakeholders to revive Kaduna’s commercial ecosystem and promote inclusive growth.
