By Ukpa Ewa
As part of his administration’s effort to tackle street trading in the state, the Governor of Anambra State, Prof Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, has completed and commissioned over 40 units of lock-up shops and market stalls in Okpuno.
This initiative geared to provide a permanent solution to the issue of street trading by offering traders a comfortable and modern trading environment was part of Governor Soludo promises to itinerant traders which he has fulfilled.
The Governor, during the commissioning ceremony, emphasized that these shops represent a model solution to the problem of street trading. He noted that it’s a prototype that will be replicated across various parts of the state.
The street trading centre named “Solution Arena,” features designated spots for fruits and vegetables, grills, and other sundries. Reflecting the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) motto, “leaving no one behind,” the market spaces were given free of charge to the poorest members of the community. This initiative ensures that the streets remain clean and free of street traders and hawkers, providing a convenient shopping environment for the public.
Governor Soludo commended the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) for her role in bringing the project to fruition. He noted that this model would be replicated in several other neighbourhoods to further address the issue of street trading.
Earlier in his remarks , the Managing Director of ACTDA, Mr. Ossy Onuko highlighted the significance of the event, explaining that the open stalls and lock-up shops offer a viable alternative to those who have turned walkways into trading corridors.
Mr Onuko noted that the government aims to regenerate the capital city into a world-class urban center, free from the clutter of uncoordinated petty trading.
According to the ACTDA boss, the government is committed to moving traders off the streets and into designated areas which will also be established in other semi-urban and urban centres.
Speaking further, he explained that the eligibility for owning a shop at the Solution Arena requires that individuals must have previously been street traders who had been displaced and had subsequently applied for a space in the new area.
Some of the beneficiaries who spoke at the event expressed their gratitude to Governor Soludo for his benevolent gesture and prayed for his continuity.
The new shops are equipped with solar lighting, modern toilet facilities, and areas where fruits can be washed with flowing water.
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; 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.
Ewa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.
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