Borno State governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has commissioned the remodelled Banki International Market destroyed by Boko Haram insurgents and the new Teachers’ Housing Estate in Banki town.
The market, which comprises 128 shops and about 440 stalls, is located near Nigeria’s border with Cameroon. It will provide a conducive trading environment for small and medium-scale entrepreneurs.
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The market is equipped with modern facilities, such as water and sanitation. It is aimed at accommodating traders, stimulating economic activities, and creating employment opportunities for residents, most of whom were affected by the Boko Haram conflict.
Zulum said his administration aims to enhance teachers’ welfare and productivity by building a housing estate.
The housing estate has five units of a befitting two-bedroom bungalow house.
Meanwhile, Governor Zulum laid the foundation stone for the construction of a new international market dedicated to cattle business in Banki town.
The market, which was the largest in Lake Chad before it was deserted due to Boko Haram activities, will be remodelled to meet international standards.
Marketers from Chad, the Central African Republic, and Cameroon have boycotted the border market since the escalation of the crisis and the insurgents taking over Banki and other communities.
Speaking at the ceremony attended by the governor of the Far North Region, Bakari Mjinyawa, Zulum said, “Recently, we completed the construction of a cattle market in Gamboru Ngala. We will ensure the prompt release of funds for the building of an international cattle market project, and I believe it will be completed in 90 days.”
Zulum urged the authorities in Cameroon to join him in promoting trans-border trade. He also called for the creation of avenues for international students’ exchange.