ABUJA
— The opening of Nigeria’s inaugural green solar-powered farmers’ market in Utako aims to transform the agricultural commodities sector. This initiative introduces a sustainable approach that promotes economic inclusivity, minimizes post-harvest waste, and bolsters local businesses within the farming industry.
During the opening of the advanced facility managed by Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, the FCT Minister of State, highlighted how this marketplace will revolutionize the process of connecting farms with markets more effectively.
“This marketplace will act as an avenue for farmers to sell their produce directly to buyers, cutting out intermediaries, minimizing post-harvest waste, and increasing earnings in rural areas,” Mahmoud said.
The Utako Farmers Market, covering an area of 3,000 square meters, aims to boost the effectiveness of agricultural trading within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Experts forecast a potential decrease of up to 20% in post-harvest losses because of better storage solutions, especially beneficial for perishable products. Additionally, direct sales from farmers to consumers might result in an uptick of around 15% in the prices received at the farm level.
Recent statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) indicate that agriculture accounts for about 25% of Nigeria’s GDP, with small-scale farmers responsible for more than 80% of the domestically produced food.
Nevertheless, historical data shows that around 40% of the overall produce has been lost after harvesting, especially in perishable categories like fruits and vegetables.
Utilizing a sustainable, solar-driven approach, the Utako Farmers Market tackles major bottlenecks within the agricultural value chain. With its eco-friendly power system, the market provides a consistent electrical supply, enabling vendors to lengthen their operating times and better preserve perishable goods.
AICL estimates that uninterrupted power could boost traders’ earnings by up to 30% through longer business hours and reduced spoilage.
Public-Private Partnerships Driving Growth
The effective execution of the market underscores the promise of partnerships between the public and private sectors.
Ambassador Maureen Tamuno, the AICL Group Managing Director, reiterated the company’s dedication to sustainability, focusing on SDG 11 set forth by the United Nations. This objective emphasizes building robust and equitable cities.
“Through the introduction of the Green Farmers Market, we have shown our commitment to tackling environmental sustainability as well as boosting economic resilience,” Tamuno stated.
This initiative stands as the inaugural venture of its type within the FCT and serves as a blueprint for forthcoming market infrastructures throughout Nigeria.
Under the guidance of Barrister Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) continues to prioritize community-focused growth and progress.
Mahmoud emphasised that the new market aligns with the administration’s broader agenda of economic empowerment and urban sustainability.
Boosting Food Security and Economic Diversification as Nigeria grapples with inflationary pressures on food commodities, driven by supply chain disruptions and currency fluctuations, structured market systems like the Utako Farmers Market offer critical solutions.
Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) shows that food inflation reached 33.2% in February 2025, reinforcing the urgency of infrastructural investments to stabilize prices and enhance food security.
The initiative also backs the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the federal government, focusing on economic diversity and sustainable agriculture.
Through offering an effective trading center, the marketplace aids in achieving wider national goals such as minimizing food wastage, maintaining stable product costs, and promoting economic growth in rural areas.
The Utako Farmers Market, featuring 50 secure retail outlets, 40 makeshift vendor stalls, and seven storage facilities, aims to serve as a blueprint for upcoming agricultural business ventures.
As Nigeria continues its transition toward renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure, initiatives like this reinforce the pivotal role of clean energy in driving economic transformation.
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