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From Gyang Bere, Jos
Stakeholders of Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State have endorsed the reconstruction of the burnt Jos Main Market by Jaiz Bank and operate for 40 years before handing over to the State Government.
In a resolution signed by community leaders and read by representative of Anaguta, Mr. Bitrus Pada said the reconstruction of the market will boost economic activities in the area.
“We the people of Jos North are wholly and fully in support of the laudable move and effort of the administration to rebuild the Jos Main Market as this is the desire and collective aspirant of our people.
“We agree that the State Government’s efforts should be intensified towards rebuilding the market as the market serves as symbol of unity, a source of integration and a place for synergy for meaningful development”
He said the rebuilding of the market will further enhance and solidify the efforts towards enhancing trust, peace, unity and reintegration of people in the locality.
“We also agree that rebuilding the market will further restore the lost beauty of the city centre thereby enhancing its tourism potentials and it will also boost the business environment for which Jos is known for.”
The stakeholders noted that the reconstruction of the burnt market will reduce crime rate and criminality while creating employment opportunities for the teeming youths.
“Unlike most communities who rely on farming, we in Jos North have no farmlands due to the rapid urbanization and development that has come about over time.”
Secretary to Government of Plateau State, Prof. Danladi Atu and member representing Jos North North, Hon. Baba Hassan said a copy of the position will be presented to Governor Simon Lalong for action.
However, stakeholders from Jos North Wast Constituency had rejected the reconstruction of the burnt market citing insecurity during a town hall meeting earlier convened by member representing Jos North West, Hon. Esther Simi Dusu.
The Jos North West stakeholders vehemently voted against the reconstruction of the market after weighing several options in terms of security and what the state stand to benefit.
Most of the stakeholders urged Governor Lalong to consider the option of collecting loan instead of partnership with Jaiz Bank which is to take ownership of 60 percent of the shops, leaving the state government with 40 percent.
The town hall which had in attendance the representatives of Christian Association of Nigeria CAN, Jama’atu Nasiru Islam (JNI), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Plateau Youth Council, and all registered association and voted against the rebuilding of the market.
