The Anambra State Government says it has reached an agreement with traders to begin the phased remodeling of the Onitsha Main Market. The aim is to upgrade infrastructure, improve organization, and create a more sustainable trading environment for the thousands of people who depend on the market for their livelihood.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo disclosed this on Friday after a dialogue with representatives of the Onitsha Main Market and adjoining markets at the Government House in Awka. According to him, the meeting led to a shared understanding on the need to reinvigorate the market while ensuring that commercial activities are not severely disrupted.
Soludo explained that the exercise would be carried out in phases to minimize the impact on traders. He noted that leadership sometimes requires making uncomfortable but necessary decisions to secure the future, adding that the goal is to reposition the market to meet global standards.
Key aspects of the intervention include reclaiming market parks, restoring walkways, constructing public conveniences, and repainting and color-coding shops and trading lines. These steps, he said, align with his administration’s manifesto to build planned and sustainable cities, communities, and markets across the state.
Earlier, the Chairman of Onitsha Main Market, Mr. Chijioke Okpalugo, confirmed that traders had accepted the remodeling option proposed by the government. However, he appealed for time to allow traders to remove their goods from areas affected by structures considered illegal.
