Maria Ochefu, Founder of Nigeria’s Iconic Mammy Market, Passes Away at 86

Maria Ochefu, Founder of Nigeria’s Iconic Mammy Market, Passes Away at 86

Maria Ochefu, the woman credited with founding the famous Mammy Market in Nigerian military barracks, 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. She was set to celebrate her 87th birthday in April.

Maria Ochefu, wife of former military governor of Enugu State, Colonel Anthony Ochefu, made history by creating the Mammy Market concept, which has since become an integral part of military barracks across the country. Originally starting as a small food stall, Mammy Market evolved into a widespread marketplace, serving soldiers and their families with essential goods and meals.