Maria Ochefu, the woman credited with founding the famous Mammy Market, has passed away at the age of 86. Her contribution to Nigerian military and civilian communities remains significant, as her idea transformed into a nationwide network of markets catering to military personnel and their families.
The origin of Mammy Market dates back to the 1950s when Ochefu, the wife of a military officer, started selling homemade food and drinks to soldiers at the military barracks in Enugu. Her initiative quickly gained popularity, leading to the formal establishment of these markets in barracks across the country. Over time, Mammy Markets became a staple of military and paramilitary installations, providing essential goods and fostering community interaction.
Ochefu’s legacy extends beyond business, as her initiative provided economic opportunities for many traders, particularly women, who found a stable source of income within these markets. The concept has since evolved, with Mammy Markets now serving not only military personnel but also the general public, offering a wide range of goods and services.
Her passing marks the end of an era, but her influence will continue to be felt across Nigeria. As tributes pour in, many remember her as a visionary whose simple act of entrepreneurship created a lasting institution that supports countless livelihoods today.
