Chinedum Treasure
Governor of Anambra State, Prof Chukwuma Soludo on Saturday commissioned over 40 units of lock-up shops and market stalls in Okpuno, Awka South Local Government Area of the state.
The initiative, a reflection of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) mantra, “leaving no one behind,” the market spaces were given free of charge to the poorest members of the community.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Soludo said the shops represented model solution to the problem of street trading in the state.
He said, “This initiative which is part of my promises to itinerant traders is targeted at providing permanent solution to the issue of street trading by offering traders comfortable and modern trading environment
“The street trading centre named “Solution Arena,” features designated spots for fruits and vegetables, grills, and other sundries. The shops are equipped with solar lighting, modern toilet facilities, and areas where fruits can be washed with flowing water.
“This initiative ensures that the streets remain clean and free of street traders and hawkers, providing a convenient shopping environment for the public.”
While commending the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) for her role in bringing the project to fruition, Soludo assured that the model would be replicated in several other neighborhoods to further address the issue of street trading.
“This project is a prototype and will be replicated across various parts of the state,” he added.
Earlier, Managing Director of ACTDA, Mr. Ossy Onuko while underscoring the significance of the project, explained that the open stalls and lock-up shops offer viable alternative to those who have turned walkways into trading corridors.
He restated government’s commitment to moving traders off the streets and into designated areas, which would also be established in other semi-urban and urban centers.
“This government wants to regenerate the capital city into a world-class urban center, free from the clutter of uncoordinated petty trading.
“The eligibility for owning a shop at the Solution Arena required that individuals must have previously been street traders who had been displaced and had subsequently applied for a space in the new area,” he added.
Some of the beneficiaries who spoke at the event expressed their gratitude to the Governor for his benevolence and prayed for his continuity.
The event was graced by various dignitaries, including the Traditional Ruler of Okpuno, Igwe Sunday Okafor; Anambra State Chief of Staff, Chief Ernest Ezeajughi; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Collins Nwabunwanne.
Others were the National President of Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU), Barr. Titus Akpudo, the National Coordinator of Soludo Ambassadors Chief Kenneth Nwachukwu, among others.
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