MARIA OCHEFU, FOUNDER OF MAMMY MARKET, PASSES AWAY AT 86

Maria Ochefu, the visionary behind Nigeria’s iconic Mammy Markets, 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 after receiving treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi. She was set to celebrate her 87th birthday in April.

Security analyst Deji Adesogun shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), writing:
“RIP Mama Mammy Market. The founder of Mammy Markets in military barracks across Nigeria, Maria Ochefu, has passed away at 86. She was married to Colonel Anthony Ochefu, a former military governor of Enugu State.”

Maria Ochefu’s legacy lives on through the Mammy Markets, which she pioneered as an essential part of military life—providing soldiers and their families with food, basic goods, and a vibrant social space within military barracks.

May her soul rest in peace.