BY CHIKA KWAMBA
THE Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof. Epiphany Azinge, has called for the construction of Asaba International Market, noting that the central market has become congested and can no longer adequately serve the capital city and its environs.
Prof. Azinge made the call, yesterday, during the commissioning of the newly constructed ultra-modern Ogbeogonogo Shopping Complex, an initiative of the Oshimili South Local Government.
The high-profile event was attended by political office holders, traditional chiefs, local government councillors, shop owners, as well as market men and women.
Commending the Oshimili South Local Government Chairman, Hon. Kelvin Ezenyili, and the indigenous contractor, Dada Global Resources Nigeria Limited, the monarch applauded the successful completion of the multi-million-naira facility.
“There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing a city develop. This is proof that our local governments are working assiduously in many ways. Congratulations to them once again, and more grease to their elbows,”
“The functions of local governments, as clearly outlined in Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution, include the promotion of commerce. He urged stakeholders to prioritize the establishment of a bigger market, stressing that Asaba could no longer rely solely on the “overcrowded Ogbeogonogo Market”.
Earlier in his remarks, Obi Kelvin Ezenyili expressed appreciation to all guests and lauded the Asagba for his consistent leadership and guidance in community development and crime prevention.
He recalled that the old Ogbeogonogo Market, gutted by fire twice, had displaced many traders and forced open trading, hence the decision to provide modern facilities befitting Asaba’s cosmopolitan status.
“Despite the construction of the new Ogbeogonogo Market, there was still no adequate space to accommodate the overwhelming number of displaced traders. This necessitated the rehabilitation and provision of more shops,” the chairman explained.
Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Ogbueshi Dada Okonji, emphasized the inclusiveness of the new market complex.
“This facility is for every trader, no matter how small their business, even as little as kolanuts. With over 100 lock-up shops, none has been sold to private individuals, to ensure affordability and accessibility for all,” Okonji stated.
