By Claribel Udah
The phased redevelopment of Onitsha Main Market has officially commenced, as the Anambra State Government, under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, mobilizes contractors to site for the construction of access roads, market parks, and other critical infrastructure.
The project site was formally handed over on June 24, at the White House, Onitsha Main Market, by the Commissioner for Housing, Architect Henry Arinze, and the Director of Works, Engr. Obiora Okafor, who represented the Commissioner for Works, and Arch.Okey Ezeobi.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Arch. Arinze said the redevelopment forms part of Governor Soludo’s urban renewal agenda aimed at modernizing commercial infrastructure across the state.
He described the project as a strategic intervention designed to transform Onitsha Main Market into a modern commercial hub that reflects its significance to the economy of Anambra State and Nigeria at large.
Arinze assured traders that the project would be executed in phases to minimise disruption of business activities while construction progresses.
A representative of one of the contracting firms, Ferotex Construction Company, Mr Benjamin Onuora expressed readiness to commence work but raised concerns about security and the movement of construction materials within the busy market environment.
Responding, Engr. Okafor directed contractors to undertake major construction activities at night, noting that the market closes daily by 6:00 p.m.
“Major works should be carried out at night when the market is less congested. The government and market leadership will provide the necessary support to ensure smooth execution of the projects,” Okafor stated.
Traders and market leaders welcomed the initiative and expressed optimism that the redevelopment would enhance business operations, improve accessibility, and further strengthen Onitsha Main Market’s position as one of West Africa’s leading commercial centres.
Claribel Udah is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
