Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has commissioned the newly completed ultra-modern Ekiti Builders’ Market in Ado Ekiti, describing the project as a major step towards boosting the state’s economy and improving infrastructure.
The market, delivered through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the state government, via its investment arm Fountain Holdings Limited, and New Frontier Development Limited, features 191 lock-up shops, a security post, cafeteria, clinic, warehouse, car parks, and other essential facilities.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Mr Oyebanji said the initiative aligns with his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
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He noted that the market would not only ease access to building materials but also support local commerce, create jobs, and strengthen the state’s internally generated revenue.
Before the establishment of the market, traders in building materials operated in scattered, unregulated spaces across the city, making it difficult for customers to source their needs in one location.
The governor explained that the new centralised market would address this challenge by bringing together all categories of building materials dealers under one roof, promoting order, convenience, and safety in business transactions.
“The building materials sector plays a vital role in the growth of our construction industry. By providing a central, well-organised marketplace, we are not only improving access to quality materials but also creating a business-friendly environment for small and medium enterprises to thrive,” Mr Oyebanji stated.
He commended New Frontier Development Limited for completing the project within record time and urged traders to maintain the facilities, comply with environmental regulations, and work together to make the market a model for other commercial centres in the state.
The governor also highlighted his administration’s broader efforts to decongest the Ado Ekiti metropolis by relocating traders from high-traffic areas to purpose-built markets. He cited the relocation of traders from the Atikankan Market to the new Shasha Market as a successful example.
Addressing youths, women, and artisans, Mr Oyebanji said, “Let this market serve as a reminder that there is dignity in enterprise and hope for a better future. Our administration will continue to support you through skill acquisition programmes, access to finance, and infrastructure development.”
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Fountain Holdings Limited, Adetunji Tolani, described the market as a product of strategic partnership designed to meet the growing demand for a well-structured hub for building materials in the state.
He said the market was carefully planned to include key amenities such as power supply, security, and convenience facilities to ensure a seamless business experience.
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On behalf of New Frontier Development Limited, the Executive Director, Salma Muhamed, expressed pride in the timely completion of the project, calling it a demonstration of the positive outcomes achievable through public-private collaboration.
She reaffirmed the company’s commitment to contributing to the state’s development through impactful infrastructure.
The Builders’ Market was reportedly abandoned by previous administrations until Mr Oyebanji ordered the revival of the project last year.
