Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa state, Monday, flagged off the construction of a brand new Jimeta Ultra Modern Shopping Complex to be equipped with the state of the art facilities.
It is expected that it will boost socio-economic activities in the state and give Yola, the state capital, its befitting status as an investment destination.
Speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony, Governor Fintiri said the project which will include high-end retail outlets, food courts, office spaces, recreational areas among others, is a landmark initiative of his administration.
He said the edifice is not just a structure but an enduring legacy and a vibrant commercial hub and environment that will attract investments, foster economic growth and create jobs for the citizens.
The governor stated that the project is part of his administration’s broader vision to modernise the urban and rural landscape of Adamawa state, and a clear manifestation of his commitment to economic diversification aimed at harnessing the potentials of commerce, tourism and technology to create a resilient economy that works for everyone.
He further noted that when completed, the complex will serve as a key driver of economic activity, attracting customers and visitors alike, and creating job opportunities in construction, retail, security, management and hospitality sectors.
He said the project was awarded at the total cost of N19, 700,382,063.56, with a completion period of 18 months.
He said to ensure timely completion and delivery of a world class facility that will stand as a beacon of excellence for generations to come, it has been broken into LoT 1 to 3 given to different contractors.
He called on Adamawa state traders and the entire commercial community to hasten and strategically work with the Ministry of Commerce to centrally take ownership of the project instead of brooding somewhere waiting for the project to fail.
He added that like many projects of his administration, it will not fail because he has never initiated a project that cannot be completed which remains the trademark of his administration.
The Commissioner for Commerce, Dr.Ishaya Dabari, assured the people of Adamawa of value for their money, adding that the ministry will ensure adequate supervision, monitoring and evaluation of the project to ensure timely completion in accordance with the terms contained in the contract agreement.
He solicited for the support and cooperation of the public to the contractors to enable them execute the project without hitches, so it can be completed within the time frame for the benefit of the state and its people.