By Ebele Iyke Odili
The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming the state’s commercial sector through market reforms, improved infrastructure, enhanced security and business-friendly policies aimed at making Anambra Nigeria’s preferred destination for trade and investment.
The Commissioner for Commerce, Hon. Nomso Chukwuma Ebonwu, stated this while featuring on the “Ask the Commissioner” programme on ABS Radio 88.5FM, Awka, hosted by the Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor today, July 2.
Hon. Ebonwu said Governor Chukwuma Soludo is implementing bold reforms to modernise markets, improve the ease of doing business and create an environment that encourages investment and economic growth. He noted that the administration is determined to position Anambra as the commercial hub of the South-East and beyond.
According to him, the ongoing regeneration of Onitsha Main Market has entered the implementation stage and will provide modern roads, improved drainage, better sanitation, organised parking spaces and enhanced fire safety. He added that other major markets across the state will also benefit from similar interventions in phases.
The commissioner assured traders that government is carrying them along throughout the redevelopment process to minimise disruptions. He described the restoration of Monday trading as a major economic success, saying it has increased commercial activities, boosted traders’ incomes and restored confidence in doing business across the state.
He further said that the Soludo administration has continued to strengthen security while investing in infrastructure that supports commerce. Ebonwu said that government is also promoting digital market systems and training traders in digital payments and modern business practices to prepare them for the future economy.
While acknowledging the prevailing national economic challenges, the commissioner said the state government is creating an enabling environment through improved infrastructure, transparent policies and the elimination of illegal levies. “Our goal is to make Anambra the commercial heartbeat of Nigeria where businesses flourish, investors have confidence and every trader has the opportunity to succeed,” he said.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor, described the Ask the Commissioner programme as an initiative of Governor Soludo to promote transparency, accountability and direct engagement between government and the people. He said the platform enables Ndi Anambra to receive firsthand information on government policies and reforms.
Dr. Mefor added that the Soludo administration remains committed to open governance and people-centred leadership, urging residents to continue supporting the government’s transformation agenda, noting that sustained public engagement remains key to building a prosperous, secure and livable homeland.
The programme featured discussions on market regeneration, infrastructure development, Monday trading, investment promotion, digital commerce, youth and women entrepreneurship, as well as government’s vision for sustainable trade and market development in Anambra State.
Ebele Iyke-Odili is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
