Maria Ochefu, Founder of Mammy Markets, Passes Away at 86

 

Maria Ochefu, the woman credited with establishing the Mammy Markets found in military barracks across Nigeria, has passed away at the age of 86.

Her son, Professor Yakubu Ochefu, confirmed that she died peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, March 18. Before her passing, she had been receiving treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi. She would have celebrated her 87th birthday in April.

Maria Ochefu was married to Colonel Anthony Ochefu, who once served as a military governor of Enugu State. Her contribution to Nigerian society, particularly within military communities, remains significant. The Mammy Markets, named after her, have provided essential goods, food, and services to military personnel and their families for decades.

Security analyst Deji Adesogna shared the news of her passing on X (formerly Twitter), writing:

"RIP MAMA MAMMY MARKET. The founder of Mammy Market in military barracks across the country, Maria Ochefu, 86 years old, is dead. She was married to Colonel Anthony Ochefu, who was once a military governor in Enugu State."

Her legacy continues through the markets that have become a cornerstone of military life in Nigeria.