The Yobe State government says it has finalised arrangements to revoke shops and stalls in the newly constructed markets in Damaturu, Gashua and Nguru local government areas of the state.

Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State stated this during the distribution of 50,000 bags of grains to vulnerable households in Damaturu, the state capital.

He said the state government has done the right thing by providing modern markets to boost business and give traders a more dignified and comfortable environment.

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The governor said despite the huge investment in the markets, the businesses have refused to complement government efforts by relocating to the markets for the development of commercial activities.

‘‘Traders in other states are struggling to get such markets. It is clear that they are lacking what we have. If traders from Kano and other neighbouring states had access to these markets, they would be completely occupied, and it would be difficult to even find a single vacant shop.

‘‘Our traders should know that these shops and stalls in the modern markets were built for them to elevate business in a clean, organised, and secure environment.

‘‘This government will not allow valuable public investment to waste while our people need opportunities. Any shop owner who fails to open and use their space immediately will have it revoked and reassigned to serious traders,” he said.

Daily Trust reports that high rent and the fear of losing existing customers due to the new market location are among the reasons traders are hesitant to occupy the modern markets.