Mammy Market Founder Passes Away at 86

The founder of Nigeria’s iconic Mammy Market has died at the age of 86, leaving behind a lasting legacy in military and civilian marketplaces.

Maria Ochefu, the visionary behind the famous Mammy Markets located in military barracks throughout Nigeria, has passed away at 86.

Her son, Professor Yakubu Ochefu, confirmed during a phone conversation on Thursday that she passed away in her sleep on Tuesday.

She was married to Colonel Anthony Ochefu, who previously held the position of military governor of Enugu State.

In a previous interview, Maria Ochefu shared how she initiated the Mammy Market concept, which has now become a staple across military barracks nationwide.

In the interview, she mentioned that two former Heads of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retired) and ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, were among her clients.

“Yes, Mama peacefully passed away in her sleep on Tuesday in Makurdi,” her son reported. “She had been receiving care at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and would have turned 87 this April.”