By Juliana Nwachukwu
The President-General of the Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), Chief Humphrey Anuna, has reaffirmed the association’s commitment to partnering with the Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to achieve a significant increase in revenue generated from markets across the state.
Anuna made the commitment during the second annual Iwaji (New Yam) festival held at the ASMATA headquarters on Modebe Avenue, Odoakpu, Onitsha, where traders gathered to celebrate Igbo culture, thanksgiving and unity.
The colourful celebration attracted ASMATA zonal market leaders, women leaders, members of the youth wing and other stakeholders, with traditional displays, cultural performances, food and entertainment adding colour to the occasion.
Speaking at the event, Anuna thanked ASMATA members for their continued support and solidarity, noting that their cooperation had contributed to the achievements recorded by his administration.
He also expressed appreciation to Gov Soludo for the partnership between the state government and ASMATA, stressing that improved revenue generation from markets would play an important role in advancing the socioeconomic development of Anambra State.
The ASMATA President-General, however, raised concerns over what he described as attempts by some zonal market leaders to frustrate the association’s efforts. He assured members that the challenges would be addressed in the coming weeks.
Anuna urged traders to continue supporting his administration and called on members to comply with the association’s directives, particularly by wearing the prescribed ASMATA uniform during official programmes and events.
Speaking with news men, the leader of the Great Vanguard, Hon. Ogochukwu Emmanuel Obi, commended Anuna’s leadership, describing it as transparent and accountable.
He said that the association had made progress in ensuring that revenues due to the state government were properly accounted for and remitted into government coffers.
The ASMATA Youth Leader, Ifeanyi Ogenyi, also expressed the youth wing’s continued support for Anuna, assuring him that the young traders remained committed to the leadership and development of the association.
The Iwaji celebration ended on a colourful note, combining traditional festivities, cultural displays, food and entertainment, while reinforcing ASMATA’s commitment to preserving Igbo cultural heritage and promoting unity among traders across Anambra State.
Juliana Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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