By Amuda Dan Sulaiman Fab
The Maigari of Lokoja, Dr. Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi, has revived the moribund Lokoja cattle market in Felele, lamenting the deteriorating condition of facilities and encroachment on the market land.
The reopening ceremony commenced with special prayers led by Shiekh Abubakar Adamu, who prayed for the Maigari, the people of Lokoja, and the sustainability of the market.
Speaking during the event, the traditional ruler described the cattle market as economically important to Lokoja and Kogi State at large, stressing that urgent rehabilitation was needed to restore the market to standard.
He, however, admitted that neither himself nor community leaders had the financial capacity to undertake the massive rehabilitation required.
âIf you expect me or the community leaders to do it alone, we do not have the financial muscle,â the royal father stated.
The monarch disclosed that discussions had already commenced with a âgood Samaritanâ who promised to provide boreholes and solar lighting for the market.
He also called on the Lokoja Local Government Council to fulfill its responsibility by rehabilitating the deplorable access road leading to the market.
âThe cattle market belongs to the Local Government Council. It is your responsibility to provide social amenities in the market,â he declared.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the market, Shaibu Iliyasu Tubo, who spoke in Hausa language, thanked the Maigari for reviving the market.
He also expressed appreciation to all dignitaries and guests who attended the occasion.
The Secretary of the Local Government Council and other speakers at the event also commended the Maigari for his efforts in reviving the cattle market and restoring economic activities in the area.
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