Anambra Govt, Onitsha Traders Seal Deal for Phased Remodelling of Main Market to Boost Infrastructure, Sustainability

 

The Anambra State Government has announced a landmark agreement with traders of the Onitsha Main Market to commence the phased remodelling of the sprawling commercial hub. The initiative aims to restore the market's infrastructure, improve organisation, and position it as a modern, sustainable trading centre aligned with global standards.

The breakthrough came after a high-level dialogue at the Light House in Awka, involving Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo and leaders from the Onitsha Main Market and adjoining markets. Rising from the meeting, both parties agreed to begin immediate reinvigoration efforts, with the remodelling to be executed in phases to minimise disruptions to ongoing commercial activities.

Governor Soludo emphasised that the project is part of his administration's manifesto to deliver planned, sustainable markets and communities. He described the intervention as an "emergency" measure to address long-standing issues such as congestion, illegal structures, and declining functionality exacerbated by external factors like sit-at-home compliance.

Reclamation of market parks and open spaces

Restoration of walkways for better pedestrian flow

Construction of modern public conveniences

Repainting and colour-coding of shops and trading lines

Removal of illegal structures to create organised spaces

The Chairman of Onitsha Main Market, Chijioke Okpalugo, reportedly endorsed the remodelling approach after traders opted for this path over more disruptive alternatives. He had earlier appealed for time to relocate goods from affected areas, ensuring a smoother transition.

The phased strategy is designed to allow traders to continue business operations with limited interruptions, as sections of the market are upgraded sequentially. Governor Soludo highlighted that modern commerce relies on efficient logistics, decongested environments, and proper amenities—elements the current market layout lacks.

This agreement follows recent tensions, including a temporary market closure ordered by the governor to enforce full operations (including Mondays) and address security concerns. Traders have since pledged to end sit-at-home compliance and resume full activities, with assurances of enhanced security around commercial centres.

The remodelling is expected to revitalise the Onitsha Main Market's economic role, create job opportunities during implementation, stimulate local commerce, and attract greater investment. It aligns with broader state efforts to upgrade traditional marketplaces to meet contemporary economic and environmental standards.

Stakeholders anticipate that the project will not only restore the market's former glory but also secure its future as a premier trading destination in the region.