Nasarawa market traders set to generate N300 million monthly for State government

The Chairman Caretaker Traders and Marketers Associations Nasarawa state, Alhaji Turaki Gamji has revealed plans to boost Internally Generated Revenue IGR, from N100m to N300m in the State.

He made the declaration in an exclusive interview with our correspondent in Lafia.

Alhaji Gamji stated that efforts are in top gear to harmonize all associations under one umbrella with a view to improve revenue generation.

“You know before we came on board, previous leadership of traders and marketers have shown ‘I don’t care attitude’ towards uniting or bring other associations under one roof.

“As I speak with you, we have commenced inventory of all business associations for record purposes across the state.

The Caretaker Chairman, Alhaji Gamji who outline some area of concern or target include, Timber Dealers , Cassava Millers, Rice Millers as well as all business associations.

“Infact we are in talking times with leaders of under listed associations as an adeage goes united we stand together we can achieve greatness that is our slogan.

Continuing, he said, “there is mutual understanding between us at the leadership and all members which I can reaffirm to you that generating N300m at the end of every month is a guarantee.

He pointed out that, Nasarawa is at the bottom of federation allocation where if workers’ salaries were paid, government is left with little or nothing for developmental projects, just as he added that as traders and marketers’ association they would not relent in their move to assist through revenue generation.

“By the time we meet up our target we will ask government to release only one percent of the total sum generated to enable us purchase what are are lacking for smooth operations.

While given some challenges inherited from the past leadership are absence of proper records, operational offices among other numerous problems.

Alhaji Gamji was happy to inform members that within a short period of assumption of office, they were able to rent an apartment close to, Lafia modern market as head office and zonal offices in each of the 3 Senatorial Districts for better services.

“This is just a stepping stone because we have a plan to purchase land where we can build permanent office here in Lafia as adminstrative headquarters and also one will be in Akwanga and Keffi respectively.

“This are some legacy I intend to leave behind after expiration of my 3 months in office as Chairman Caretaker of traders and marketers association in the state.

“Lest I forget, more than years now, when the association was formed, it will surprise you due to nonchalant attitude of past administration that they didn’t register with Cooperate Affairs Commission or have bank account.

“But the good news was that the present leadership have secured registration with CAC, and have equally opened an account with Zenith Bank. He stated.

He showered encomiums on Governor Abdullahi Sule for his committment towards providing an enabling atmosphere for members of traders and marketers to carry out their daily businesses with ease.

He applealed to members and public to continue to support government of APC under the watch of Governor Abdullahi Sule to exceed all expectations.