Utako Farmers Market (AMML1016)
The Utako Farmers Market is a recently developed and highly significant commercial project in Abuja's Utako District. It is primarily known for being the FCT's (Federal Capital Territory) first purpose-built, green, solar-powered market, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and modern infrastructure. Developed by the Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL), the market aims to create an organized, clean, and efficient trading environment specifically for the agricultural sector. The modern design and reliable power source are intended to address common issues in traditional markets, such as high post-harvest losses and limited operating hours.
The market's specialization is centered on providing a direct platform for farmers to sell fresh agricultural produce to consumers, thereby reducing the influence of middlemen, boosting rural incomes, and ensuring fresher, more affordable goods for city residents. The physical structure of the market, developed on 3,000 square meters of land, consists of 50 lock-up shops, 40 informal stalls, and seven warehouses. This configuration ensures ample space for both established vendors and smaller farmers. The inclusion of an independent, clean power supply is its most defining feature, which enables traders to utilize cold rooms and operate for extended hours, significantly aiding in the preservation of perishable goods.
Distinguished from the larger, older, and more general Utako Ultra Modern Market (which sells everything from electronics to furniture), the Utako Farmers Market focuses narrowly on its function as a central agricultural hub. Its inauguration was hailed as a major milestone for economic empowerment and agricultural excellence in the FCT. It is designed to be a "dynamic ecosystem for business growth and job creation," setting a new standard for market infrastructure and sustainable development within the Nigerian capital.
