Amb. Kim Musa Ndoh The elected president of Plateau Business Owners Council (PLABOC)

Has call for a stronger business security in Plateau State

The unfortunate fire incident that occurred at Terminus Market, Jos, on Saturday, 14 March 2026, which destroyed several shops and goods worth millions of naira, remains a painful reminder of the vulnerability of our business communities. While we are grateful that no lives were lost, the economic losses suffered by affected traders cannot be overlooked.

Several months after the incident, the business community is still awaiting the outcome of investigations into the cause of the fire. Understanding what happened is essential not only to provide answers to affected traders but also to help prevent similar incidents in the future.

On behalf of the Plateau State Business Owners Council (PLABOC), I extend my heartfelt sympathy to all businesses and families affected by the unfortunate incident. We also commend the emergency responders whose timely intervention helped contain the fire and prevented further destruction.

As the umbrella body representing business owners across Plateau State, PLABOC believes that this unfortunate event should serve as a catalyst for strengthening safety, security, and resilience within our commercial centres.

We commend the Federal Government’s initiative, announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to deploy over 5,000 AI-enabled surveillance cameras across Plateau State as part of efforts to strengthen security. This is a commendable step toward creating a safer environment for citizens and businesses alike.

However, we respectfully appeal to the Plateau State Government to ensure that this surveillance initiative gives priority attention to Business District Centres (BDCs), major markets, shopping plazas, industrial layouts, commercial streets, and other key business hubs across the State. These locations are the backbone of Plateau’s economy and deserve enhanced protection through modern surveillance infrastructure.

Strategically installed surveillance cameras can:

• Support rapid emergency response.
• Assist security agencies in identifying the causes of incidents.
• Deter criminal activities, including theft, vandalism, and arson.
• Improve investor confidence.
• Enhance the safety of traders, customers, and business owners.

In addition to surveillance technology, PLABOC recommends:

• Installation of fire hydrants and firefighting equipment in major markets.
• Regular electrical safety inspections in commercial areas.
• Fire safety awareness and emergency response training for traders.
• Improved access routes for emergency response vehicles.
• Promotion of affordable business insurance for traders and SMEs.

A secure business environment is fundamental to economic growth. Protecting our markets and commercial centres is not only a security priority but also an investment in productivity, employment, and sustainable development.

PLABOC remains committed to working closely with the Plateau State Government, security agencies, and other stakeholders to develop practical solutions that will strengthen the business environment and protect investments across Plateau State.

Together, let us build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Plateau for every entrepreneur and business owner.

Amb. Kim Musa Ndoh
President
Plateau State Business Owners Council (PLABOC)

“One Voice, One Vision.