REPORTER: PEACE AGBO
Abia state government says the ongoing markets redevelopment projects in the state will be beneficial to all affected traders.
Governor Alex Otti gave the assurance during a meeting with the National Executive Council of the National Association of Nigerian Traders, at the Michael Okpara Auditorium Umuahia.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to safety, fairness and quality standards in the remodelling process stressing that the primary objective of his administration is to ensure a clean and safe environment in schools, hospitals, markets, manufacturing areas and government establishments across the state.
Governor Otti said his administration was in support of the ongoing remodelling of a section of Ariaria International Market and reaffirmed that existing shop owners would be given the “first right of refusal” in the allocation of the new shops as he has issued a directive on the order.
According to the Governor, the government had arranged with some banks to provide soft loans to traders who might have difficulty in paying for the new shops.
Earlier, The National trust President of the Association, Dr Ken Ukaoha, applauded Infrastructural strides of Governor Otti noting that the association had received reports of significant changes in Abia, including improved electricity supply, better road networks and rehabilitated markets, which had encouraged the traders from within and outside Nigeria to return.
On the ongoing market remodelling, the National president said that Abia traders supported the initiative but stressed that justice and fairness must guide the process.
Dr Ukaoha suggested transparent engagement on the cost of reconstruction and proposed structured payment arrangements to make it easier for traders to meet their obligations.
