The Chairman of Onitsha Main Market, Hon. Chijioke Michael Okpalaugo, has thrown his weight behind the ongoing redevelopment of the market by the Anambra State Government, assuring traders that the project will transform the commercial hub and improve business activities upon completion.
Speaking during an interview with officials of the Onitsha North Information Office at the White House, Main Market, Okpalaugo said traders were fully consulted and carried along before demolition and construction works commenced.
According to him, market stakeholders were adequately briefed on the scope, timeline, and objectives of the redevelopment project, dismissing claims that traders were left in the dark.
“We were informed about the project from the beginning, how it would be executed, why it was necessary, and when construction would commence. The market leadership has been fully involved throughout the process,” he said.
Addressing concerns over possible increases in shop rents after the redevelopment, Okpalaugo urged traders not to panic, expressing confidence that Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration remains committed to protecting their interests.
He stated that the government’s vision is to create a modern, safer, and more business-friendly market environment that will benefit traders and the state economy.
The market chairman also disclosed that security within the market has been strengthened, revealing that 16 CCTV camera channels have been installed across the market to enhance surveillance and protect lives and property during the construction period.
He further announced plans to provide an independent electricity supply for the market, describing it as part of efforts to improve infrastructure and boost commercial activities.
Okpalaugo warned against the illegal occupation of public spaces, stressing that structures erected on roads, drainage channels, and designated parking areas would eventually be removed as part of the government’s urban renewal initiative.
He noted that responsible governance requires the recovery of public spaces to promote orderliness, accessibility, and sustainable development.
Providing an update on the project, the Supervising Engineer from the Anambra State Ministry of Works, Engr. Edozie Nwadiogbu, said construction is progressing according to schedule, with drainage excavation already ongoing along Bright Street and Johnson Street.
According to him, the Bright Street road project spans 460 metres, while Johnson Street covers 602 metres.
Although the contract duration is 16 weeks, Nwadiogbu expressed optimism that the project could be completed within 12 to 13 weeks, provided there is no disruption in the supply of construction materials.
He added that Grade 20 reinforced concrete, one of the highest standards for drainage construction, is being used to ensure durability, expressing confidence that the completed roads could last for at least 20 years with proper maintenance.
The engineer also commended the market leadership for providing adequate security and cooperation throughout the execution of the project.
The ongoing redevelopment of Onitsha Main Market forms part of the Soludo administration’s urban renewal and infrastructure transformation agenda, aimed at modernising commercial centres, improving road networks, enhancing flood control, and creating a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
