The market, which is to have over 600 lock-up stores, is being financed in collaboration with Manny Bank, Plc. It will include warehouses, restaurants, bank halls and a police post amongst others.

Governor Adamu, in laying the foundation stone of the market, gave three reasons why the government decided to undertake the project:

• Lafia serves as the major commercial center for economic activities in the state
• The present Lafia central market has become too small and inadequate
• The project was part of government’s commercial undertakings with quick returns on investment.

The Lafia modern market which will bring to two the total number of international markets in the state, is to fortify government belief that markets are meeting points for the community of peoples to exchange goods and services, said Governor Adamu. The other market is the Karu International market, which is already open for business.

Governor Adamu used the occasion to re-assure the private sector of the commitment of his administration to encourage private sector participation in the development of Nasarawa State. He said he was of the firm belief that the organized private sector is able to manage commercial projects in the state for the benefit of all parties.

The foundation laying ceremony was attended by the Deputy Governor, Professor Onje Gye-wado, The Speaker of the state congress, Musa Agyo, top Government officials, Traditional rulers and the crème de la crème of the business class in Nasarawa state.