Some market stakeholders in Edo, on Friday, commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for the impressive pace of reconstruction at Oba Market in Benin.

The market, gutted by fire nearly a decade ago, is being rebuilt into a modern commercial hub.

Planned facilities include restaurants, a crèche, a sick bay, a mini fire station and other amenities to support traders and shoppers.

Traders, business owners and residents around the market axis described the intervention as timely, reassuring and critical to reviving commercial activities.

They said the governor’s commitment and regular inspection visits have renewed confidence among traders who were displaced for years.

A trader, Faith Edos, said the market was in a deplorable condition before the current administration intervened.

“Before Okpebholo came in, this market was in a very bad condition. Today, we are happy because he has rescued the situation,” she said.

Another trader, Itohan Idamudia, described the governor as a promise keeper, noting previous administrations abandoned traders despite repeated assurances.

The governor’s chief press secretary, Patrick Ebojele, said the revamped market would feature electricity, internet access and a primary health centre.

He said the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to improve infrastructure and boost economic activities.

Mr Ebojele said the project is expected to be completed by June 2026, with government targeting earlier delivery.

According to him, the remodelled market will include 450 open stalls, lock-up shops and modern facilities to enhance safety and convenience. 

(NAN)