The Kwara State government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting market development as part of efforts to boost economic growth and improve citizens’ lifestyles.
Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, Commissioner for Business, Innovation, and Technology, made the statement during the milestone event’s anniversary celebration at the Ultra Modern Market in Adewole, Ilorin.
The occasion was filled with pomp and ceremony, as traders, craftsmen, and stakeholders gathered to celebrate the market’s accomplishments and progress over the years.
The Commissioner, who was represented by the Director of Personnel, Finance, and Supply, Mr Tunde Thompson Amos, praised the Kwara Association of Marketers on its determination to coordinate all market matters in the state.
Hon. Damilola further highlighted various programmes embarked on by the state government, which include financial grants and equipment to enhance their businesses and livelihoods, the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) intervention funds, Trader Money-Owosowo, Kwapreneur, and Owoarogbo—financial support to female traders.
She revealed that the state government will carry out revalidation and revaluation of every shop, warehouse, and open space in the market by the year 2025, as this will strengthen the strategic socio-economic position of the state.
The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Dr Ibrahim Zulu Gambari, who was represented by the Balogun Fulani of Ilorin, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, called for collaboration and peaceful coexistence among the traders and prayed for peace and harmony in the market and the state in general.
The National President of Ilorin Descendant Progressive Union (lDPU), Alhaji AbudulMumini Ayo, who was represented by the President of Ilorin West lDPU, Alhaji Amade, thanked the Executives of the Ultra Modern Market, Adewole, for their record of achievements throughout the year, praying for love, peaceful coexistence, and prosperity ahead.
Earlier, the lyaloja of Ultra Modern Market Adewole, Hajia Fumilayo Babakobi, appreciated the Kwara State Government, under the leadership of the governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for his support, for providing infrastructural development, empowerment programmes, and security networks in the state.
Hajia Babakobi expressed her sincere gratitude to the commissioner for her tireless efforts at ensuring mutual working relationships amongst the traders as well as ensuring the maintenance of social amenities in the market.
Explaining the successes and challenges recorded in the year 2024, she commended the support of the ministry and her team for the achievements.
Awards were presented to deserving traders and stakeholders who have contributed significantly to the market’s development.
