The chairman of Akpabuyo LGA in Cross River, Effiom Effiong, has disclosed plans to transform the historic barter market in the locality into an international trade hub.

Mr Effiong, who stated that the plan would be executed in collaboration with the Cross River government, made the disclosure on Friday at the council’s 34th anniversary. He said the market would be remodelled into a world-class commercial hub to attract more investors.

He noted that the market, which had been closed for a long time due to security concerns, was already attracting cross-border traders from Cameroon and beyond, adding that this was boosting local economic activity.

He attributed the prevailing peace in the locality to Governor Bassey Otu.

“The place is calm and safe. We have the Marine Police, the Navy, the Army, the Air Force, and our local vigilantes. Investors from China and other countries are already showing interest; some have even acquired land to build a university and industries,” he revealed.

Also speaking at the event, the former PDP deputy governorship candidate in Cross River, Emana Ambrose-Amawhe, commended the governor for restoring peace in the area.

Ms Ambrose-Amawhe said that insecurity in past years would have made a gathering impossible.

“Since the present administration in the state, peace and calm have prevailed in not just this locality but across the state. Today, people can sleep in their houses with their eyes closed, and that is why you see this turnout from far and near,” she said.

She noted the local government’s strategic location as a natural maritime gateway bordered by the Bakassi River and the Atlantic Ocean.

She also noted the ongoing government investments in dredging, deep-sea port development, and marine ecosystem preservation, adding that this would position the local government as a hub for maritime trade and economic growth.

The APC stalwart explained that farmers and fishermen stood to gain immensely from the initiatives.

According to her, with the pace of growth in Akpabuyo, this local government area will contribute even more to the economic advancement of Cross River and Nigeria.

“More jobs will mean more stability for our people. The major highlight of this celebration is the reopening of Akpabuyo’s historic barter trade market, the only one of its kind in West Africa.

“The revival of traditional exchanges such as fish for garri and palm oil is a testament to this community’s cultural resilience and economic rebirth,” she said.

The former PDP deputy governorship candidate described the reopening of the barter market as a boost for the APC-led government across the country.

The anniversary was marked with cultural displays, communal festivities, and renewed optimism for peace, security, and prosperity.

Reflecting on the creation of Akpabuyo from the old Odukpani council area in 1991, speakers agreed that the 34th anniversary was more than a cultural festival.

(NAN)