SOLUDO COMMISSIONS SOLUTION ARENA FRUIT, VEGETABLE MARKET
By Ukpa Ewa :
The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has commissioned the new Solution Arena Fruit and Vegetable Market in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area, a major step forward in the state efforts to modernize its marketplaces, provide safe trading spaces and boost local economic activity.
Located on Agulu lakeside road in Umuowelle, Agulu, the new Solution Arena would serve as the permanent site for the Nwagu Agulu Fruit Market, which was displaced by ongoing road construction. The state-of-the-art market features 60 new shops, which would be given to traders free of charge.
Speaking at the inauguration, Gov. Soludo emphasized his administration’s commitment to economic and infrastructural transformation across Anambra, outlining various ongoing projects aimed at improving access roads and creating safe marketplaces to eliminate street trading hazards.
According to the governor, similar projects was underway in Onitsha and Nnewi where designated spaces would be prepared to relocate street traders and provide them with better facilities.
“Agulu is part of our state capital territory, and we have big plans for its growth. The Agulu Lake, a remarkable natural resource, has immense potential as a tourism destination. In line with our broader developmental agenda, we have laid out a comprehensive master plan to unlock Agulu tourism potential, creating opportunities for economic growth.”
Gov. Soludo called on residents to embrace a Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) model for sustainable development, encouraging collaborative efforts between government, private entities, and communities, noting that through PPCP many communities have successfully built infrastructure, including roads and markets.
The Solution Arena project was successfully executed by Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA), led by its Managing Director, Mr. Ossy Onuko, who received commendations from Gov. Soludo for delivering quality work.
In their separate speeches, Members of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Nkechi Ogbuefi and Hon. Ejike Okechukwu, representing Anaocha Constituencies I and II, expressed their gratitude to Gov. Soludo for his commitment to Anaocha. They praised his efforts in improving road networks, enhancing healthcare facilities, and advancing Anambra State’s infrastructure.
On his part, the Managing Director of ACTDA, expressed gratitude for the governor’s leadership, saying that the new facility would be properly managed to ensure sustainability even as he urged traders to seize the opportunity to grow their businesses in the modern marketplace.
The beneficiaries of the new market shops, Mrs. Catherine Agajielu and Utonyili Ngozi while expressing their gratitude, noted the improved safety, convenience and quality of the new market, thanking Gov. Soludo for his efforts to support small businesses, praying for his continued success.
In attendance includes Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Deputy Chief of Staff Mr. Chinedu Nwoye Glamour, Chairman of Anaocha Local Government Area, Mr. Rome Ibekwe, top government functionaries, community leaders and women groups.
*Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State