Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing infrastructure capable of expanding economic activities, creating jobs and improving livelihoods across the state.
Oborevwori stated this on Thursday while commissioning the ultra-modern market in Ozoro, Isoko North Local Government Area, where he was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme.
The governor said the project was part of efforts to create an organised and conducive environment for traders, artisans, entrepreneurs and small businesses to thrive.
“My administration had unwavering commitment to providing infrastructure that supports trade, investment and economic prosperity,” Oborevwori said.
He said the market would not only boost commercial activities but also create employment opportunities, stimulate innovation, increase internally generated revenue and improve the wellbeing of residents.
According to him, the facility would strengthen Ozoro’s position as a commercial centre and attract traders and customers from neighbouring communities.
“This facility will provide a conducive environment for trade and enterprise to flourish, enabling traders, artisans and business owners to expand their businesses, create wealth and contribute even more meaningfully to the prosperity of this community, its environs and our state,” he said.
The governor urged traders and other users of the facility to protect and maintain the infrastructure, warning that the benefits of the project could only be sustained if the market was properly managed.
“Let us collectively safeguard this investment and use it to promote legitimate business, peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity,” he said.
The market comprises 28 lock-up shops, 192 open shops, eight packing stores, a warehouse, cold room, four administrative offices, a market hall, two security posts, male and female toilets, a central water scheme, as well as external interlocking and horticultural facilities.
Oborevwori said the project demonstrated his administration’s commitment to continuity in governance, particularly the completion of projects initiated for the benefit of residents.
He said the investment would support small and medium-scale enterprises, improve livelihoods and create opportunities for employment and wealth creation.
“Development is most meaningful when it improves the lives of the people. This project is a demonstration of our commitment to inclusive growth and our resolve to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive across every part of Delta State,” he said.
The member representing Isoko Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Jonathan Ukodhiko, alongside other community leaders and representatives of market women, commended the state government for the project.
They urged residents and traders to protect the facility from vandalism and ensure its proper maintenance.
President-General of Ozoro Kingdom, Chief Berkley Eloviano, described the market as a landmark project and evidence of the government’s commitment to economic development and improved livelihoods in the community.
The Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Samuel Oligida, said the facility would provide an improved platform for commercial activities and contribute to the economic prosperity of Ozoro and neighbouring communities.
Earlier, the Chairman of Isoko North Local Government Council, Elder Godwin Ogorugba, described the project as evidence of continuity in governance, saying it would create jobs, stimulate economic activities, improve internally generated revenue and enhance the livelihoods of residents.
In a major boost to the beneficiaries, businessman Engr. Omoyibo Daniel donated N200,000 each to 250 market women at the commissioning ceremony, amounting to N50 million.
The beneficiaries and community leaders were also urged to ensure that the new market remains a functional economic asset for present and future generations.