Maria Ochefu, establisher of Mammy Markets in military barracks across Nigeria, has passed away at the age of 86. Her son, Professor Yakubu Ochefu, confirmed her peaceful passing in her sleep on Tuesday in Makurdi, Benue State. She was receiving treatment for a recent illness at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, and had been looking forward to celebrating her 87th birthday in April.
Maria Ochefu, wife of the late Colonel Anthony Ochefu, a former military governor of East Central State, pioneered Mammy Markets—essential trading hubs within military barracks that have since become an integral part of military life in thousands of army barracks across Nigeria. These markets, vital social centers, provided crucial necessities and goods to the military personnel and their families.
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In a past interview, she recalled how two former Heads of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.) and former President Muhammadu Buhari, were among her early customers when she first established her Mammy Market enterprises within the various barracks. “It was a great joy to serve such important leaders,” she would often say.
Maria’s legacy lives on through the Mammy Markets, which continue to serve as key business and social centers in military barracks nationwide.
