The Adamawa State Government has unveiled a series of modernized livestock and grain markets aimed at transforming the state into a thriving agribusiness hub. This strategic initiative is part of a larger effort to strengthen the agricultural value chain, enhance food security, and attract investment into the livestock and crop production sectors.

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, represented by his deputy, Professor Kaletapwa Farauta, announced the commissioning of upgraded livestock and grain markets in Ngurore, Yola South Local Government Area. The intervention, implemented under the Adamawa Agribusiness Support Programme (ADAS-P), includes infrastructure improvements in five cattle markets and seven grain markets spread across all 21 local government areas.

The markets were redesigned to meet modern standards with improved facilities such as drainage systems, security enhancements, veterinary clinics, dedicated livestock stalls, improved water supply, and loading bays. These upgrades aim to provide safer, more hygienic environments for traders while improving the overall efficiency of market operations.

To sustain these advancements, Governor Fintiri revealed the formation of a State Market Management Company. This entity will work with local governments and market stakeholders to ensure proper management, long-term maintenance, and continuous operational efficiency of the newly revamped markets.

The government has invested over ₦5 billion into the livestock sector to strengthen the state’s meat production capacity. This includes the reconstruction of eight major cattle markets and the establishment of livestock breeding centers designed to support commercial-scale meat processing and distribution.

Speaking at the launch, Commissioner for Livestock Development, Tijjani Maksha, and Commissioner for Agriculture, David Jatau, urged traders and farmers to manage the new facilities responsibly. Their sentiments were echoed by Gidado Walga, Chairman of the Livestock Sellers Association, who applauded the Fintiri administration for its progressive vision and reaffirmed stakeholder commitment to supporting the initiative.

Adamawa, which currently boasts a cattle population of about 2.5 million and annual meat production of approximately 150,000 metric tons, is poised to scale its output significantly with these interventions. The livestock sector already provides direct employment to over 200,000 individuals, with more opportunities expected to emerge through expanded value chain activities such as feed production, veterinary services, packaging, and meat processing.

The state government is also introducing training programs focused on best practices in animal husbandry, sustainable crop production, and climate-resilient agriculture. These initiatives will equip farmers with modern tools and knowledge while encouraging environmentally responsible farming.

By partnering with private sector investors and international development organizations, the Adamawa State Government is facilitating public-private partnerships (PPPs) that will bring in capital, technology, and expertise needed to scale agribusiness operations. This aligns with Nigeria’s broader goal of diversifying the economy and reducing reliance on oil exports.

In addition to economic growth, the government is committed to environmental sustainability. Measures such as water resource conservation, agroforestry, and climate-smart farming techniques are being promoted to ensure that agricultural development is both productive and ecologically sound.

With its ambitious reforms, Adamawa State is well on its way to becoming a leading center for agribusiness excellence in Nigeria. These initiatives not only promise improved livelihoods for farmers and traders but also position the state as a major contributor to national food security and rural economic development.