Traders operating in Kano’s largest vegetables outlet, Yankaba Market, are urging both the state and local governments to invest in upgrading the infrastructure within the market premises as well as in other markets across the state,leadership reports.
They emphasized the urgent need for expansion and improved infrastructure, particularly in Yankaba Market, to facilitate and enhance their trading activities.
Appealing directly to Governor Abba Yusuf, the traders urged his administration to prioritize the upgrade of market infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the traders and customers.
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Aminu Lawal, the chairman of the Traders’ Association, highlighted the significant expansion of the market since its establishment in 1983, noting an increase of around 80 percent in traders, customers, and trading activities. He pointed out that some traders have resorted to using verandas and roadside spaces to display their goods due to the lack of adequate space within the market.
Among the major challenges faced by the traders, Lawal identified issues such as insufficient space, lack of electricity, poor road network, multiple taxation, waste disposal problems, and inadequate shading. These challenges are particularly impactful for traders specializing in fruits and vegetables like peppers, tomatoes, onions, okra, spinach, pumpkin, lettuce, cabbage, and watermelon.
Trading activities in the market continue throughout the day and night, with goods being offloaded at night and trading starting as early as 5:00 am. Lawal emphasized the need for consistent electricity or solar power to illuminate the market and improve security, considering the large number of traders and customers involved.
He also highlighted the importance of proper waste disposal to maintain hygiene standards, especially given the nature of the food items being sold in the market. Additionally, Lawal stressed the necessity of providing support to small traders, including access to capital for their businesses.
Despite the market’s significant expansion over the years, Lawal noted that the infrastructure has remained largely unchanged since its establishment, calling for urgent measures to address the growing needs of traders and ensure the market’s continued growth and success.
