Summit Post Newspaper sat down with Dr. Christopher Ibe, Chairman of the Building Materials Association, Mararaba, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, to discuss security concerns, flooding challenges, development projects within the market, and the association’s long-term vision.
Q: Dr. Ibe, how did your journey as Chairman of the Building Materials Association begin?
A: My leadership journey started when members of the association urged me to serve. They trusted my capacity to lead, and by God’s grace, the achievements recorded in my first term earned me re-election. I am grateful for their continued confidence.
Q: What was the condition of the market when you assumed office?
A: The market faced several challenges. There was no meeting place, no chairs, and no basic facilities. The environment was disorganised and lacked proper structure. It was clear that we needed immediate intervention to restore order and give traders a conducive environment to operate.
Q: What measures did your administration implement to address these issues?
A: We acted swiftly. We provided a proper meeting space, fenced the market, installed lighting, and improved security. These steps boosted confidence among traders and residents. In my second term, we continued renovating damaged sections of the market and provided safer shop structures with water access. We also installed additional solar street lights to strengthen night-time security.
Q: Your end-of-year programme is scheduled for December 13. What should people expect?
A: Initially, we planned a low-key event, but the programme has grown because of the expected presence of dignitaries and community leaders. We will be honouring the Etsu of Karu, the Chairman of Karu Local Government, and representatives of the state government. It promises to be a meaningful gathering.
Q: Security has been a major concern in Mararaba. What is the situation in the market?
A: Despite deploying both daytime and night guards, we still face persistent security threats. This is why we are calling for stronger government support. Security is critical for both traders and customers. The market contributes revenue to the state government, and we believe our concerns deserve urgent attention.
Q: Flooding seems to be another recurring challenge. How bad is it?
A: The flooding issue is serious. During the rainy season, goods get damaged and traders are forced to dig makeshift drainages. Every year, traders spend large amounts trying to manage the situation, yet the problem persists. A proper government-constructed drainage system will permanently address this challenge. We appeal for intervention.
Q: What is the long-term vision of the association, especially looking ahead to 2026?
A: Our goal is to transform Mararaba into a direct supply hub for major contractors and importers. This will reduce the need for traders to travel to Lagos and other cities to source materials. We have already begun discussions with relevant stakeholders. By 2026, we hope to see significant progress toward achieving this vision.
Q: Do you have any final message for the government and the public?
A: We urge the Nasarawa State Government to support us, especially in areas of security and drainage construction. Our traders contribute significantly to the state economy, and improving market conditions will benefit everyone. We remain committed to serving our members and building a more stable, prosperous trading environment.