Jubilation as Soludo Commissions Fruits, Vegetables Market, Gifts Shops to Traders

By Ukpa Ewa

Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo has commissioned the new Solution Arena: Fruit and Vegetable Market in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area. This facility represents a major step forward in the state effort to modernize its marketplaces, provide safe trading spaces and boost local economic activity.

Located on Agulu lakeside road in Umuowelle, Agulu the new Solution Arena would serve as the permanent site for the Nwagu Agulu Fruit Market, which was displaced by ongoing road construction. The state-of-the-art market features 60 new shops, which would be given to traders free of charge.

Speaking at the inauguration, Governor Soludo emphasized his administration’s commitment to economic and infrastructural transformation across Anambra.

He outlined various ongoing projects aimed at improving access roads and creating safe marketplaces to eliminate street trading hazards. According to the governor, similar projects was underway in Onitsha and Nnewi where designated spaces would be prepared to relocate street traders and provide them with better facilities.

“Agulu is part of our state capital territory, and we have big plans for its growth,” Governor Soludo said. “The Agulu Lake, a remarkable natural resource, has immense potential as a tourism destination. In line with our broader developmental agenda, we have laid out a comprehensive master plan to unlock Agulu’s tourism potential, creating opportunities for economic growth”.

Governor Soludo further called on residents to embrace a Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) model for sustainable development, encouraging collaborative efforts between government, private entities, and communities noting that through PPCP many communities have successfully built infrastructure, including roads and markets.

The Solution Arena project was successfully executed by Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA), led by its Managing Director, Mr. Ossy Onuko, who received commendations from Governor Soludo for delivering quality work.

In their separate speeches, Members of the Anambra State House of Assembly Hon. Nkechi Ogbuefi and Hon. Ejike Okechukwu, representing Anaocha Constituencies I and II, expressed their gratitude to Governor Soludo for his commitment to Anaocha.

They praised his efforts in improving road networks, enhancing healthcare facilities, and advancing Anambra State’s infrastructure.

On his part , the Managing Director of ACTDA, expressed gratitude for the governor’s leadership and said the new facility would be properly managed to ensure sustainability. He also urged traders to seize the opportunity to grow their businesses in the modern marketplace.

Also, beneficiaries of the new market shops Mrs. Catherine Agajielu and Utonyili Ngozi who expressed their gratitude, noting the improved safety, convenience and quality of the new market thanked Governor Soludo for his efforts to support small businesses, praying for his continued success.

Those in attendance included Chief of staff to the Governor Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, the Deputy Chief of Staff Mr. Chinedu Nwoye Glamour, Chairman of Anaocha Local Government Area Mr. Rome Ibekwe, top government functionaries, community leaders and women groups.