By Ebele Iyke Odili /Amaka Isikala
The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, today held a crucial meeting with traders of Onitsha Main Market whose shops are affected by the ongoing regeneration of the market. The meeting took place at the Anambra State Lighthouse, inside the Amphitheatre Centre.
The meeting was convened to further engage the affected traders, sympathize with them over the temporary disruptions, and provide clarity on the objectives and long-term benefits of the redevelopment project.
It would be recalled that on January 31, the governor had earlier met with all market chairmen and secretaries to formally brief them on the proposed regeneration plan and what it entails.
The latest engagement specifically targeted traders in the affected sections, particularly those in Parks 1, 2, and 3.
Addressing the traders, Governor Soludo reiterated that the regeneration of Onitsha Main Market is designed for the greater good of the state and future generations.
He emphasized that the project aims to restore the market to its original master plan, improve safety standards, enhance infrastructure, and reposition it as a modern commercial hub where traders can operate in a more organized and secure environment.
During earlier consultations, majority of stakeholders reportedly expressed support for Option One, a comprehensive redevelopment approach involving the demolition of outdated structures and a complete rebuild within a two-year timeline.
The governor noted that the approach would fundamentally transform the market and address long-standing structural and environmental concerns.
On the implementation strategy, Governor Soludo explained that the execution of the project would be carried out in phases to minimize disruption to business activities.
He said that Phase Zero would focus on reclaiming and properly reorganizing the Parks in line with the approved master plan.
This would include documentation, orderly restructuring, and preparatory work ahead of full-scale redevelopment.
Subsequent phases, he said, would be undertaken park by park to ensure systematic reconstruction while allowing commercial activities to continue in an organized manner.
The governor further announced that the deadline for the leveling of the affected sections has been fixed for Saturday, urging traders to cooperate fully with the authorities to ensure a smooth and orderly process.
Governor Soludo assured the traders of the government’s commitment to transparency, engagement, and fairness throughout the process, stressing that the regeneration project is not merely about demolition, but about building a sustainable and globally competitive market that reflects the commercial status of Onitsha.
The meeting ended with renewed calls for cooperation between the government and market stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of the landmark project.
Ebele and Amaka are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
