Bauchi marketers push for better trading spaces

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The Amalgamated Traders and Artisans Association, Bauchi State Chapter, has appealed to the state government to provide more conducive trading spaces, particularly for traders displaced from their former business locations due to ongoing town planning efforts.

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The Chairman of the association, Abdullah Caps, made the appeal following a quarterly meeting held on Saturday to deliberate on issues affecting members.

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Caps noted that many displaced traders have been severely impacted and require urgent government intervention to sustain their livelihoods.

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“These individuals are countless in numbers as they are spread across the state. In order to enable them to continue their businesses with ease, they need a space to resettle,” he said.

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However, he commended the Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, for his developmental strides in the commercial sector, particularly the construction of a new market along the Ibrahim Bako Bypass, describing it as a major boost to commercial activities and an improvement to the business environment.

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In his remarks, the Secretary-General of the association, Babaji Giade, also praised the governor for ongoing developmental projects across the state. He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting government efforts aimed at promoting progress and enhancing citizens’ welfare.

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Giade emphasised the importance of unity and proper organisation among traders, noting that these remain critical to achieving the association’s objectives and improving members’ welfare.

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“During the meeting, the association approved the establishment of three committees to represent Bauchi South, Bauchi Central, and Bauchi North. Their responsibility is to consult small-scale traders and artisans across the state,” he disclosed.

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According to him, the committees have been given a two-week deadline to gather opinions and recommendations from grassroots traders to guide the association’s political direction and future actions.

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The association also urged the Bauchi State Government to intensify support for traders, particularly small-scale business owners, through the provision of business capital and the creation of a more enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

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