By Karen James
As the Anambra State Government, under the leadership of Governor Charles Soludo, commences repair work on the collapsed Sakamori drainage beside Ogbaru Main Market, market leaders and stakeholders have come forward with high praise for the administration’s swift response to the traders’ needs. The repair, overseen by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure in Awka, marks a crucial step in addressing the erosion issues that have plagued the market area, leading to the loss of over 50 shops and threatening market activities.
Chief Ndubuisi Ochiogu, President-General of Ogbaru Main Market, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the market’s Board of Trustees (BOT), patrons, executives, sectional heads, and line chairmen. Speaking from the reconstruction site, Ochiogu commended Governor Soludo for addressing the traders’ plight and emphasised the Governor’s commitment to tackling the region’s pressing infrastructure issues. “One good turn deserves another,” Ochiogu said, expressing hope that the state government will also address another collapsed drainage within the market area.
He also praised the contractor, Strasbourg Investment Nigeria Ltd., for their prompt action, revealing that the market community has provided accommodation and security to support the construction crew. “We are delighted with the Sakamori reconstruction because it benefits both traders and the state government,” Ochiogu added, noting that restoring the drainage will enable traders to return, generating more revenue for Anambra through stallage fees and trade activities.
Engineer Victor Abuchi Chukwunyere, representing the contractor, assured the traders and state government of the project’s quality, stating that the work would be completed within three months despite its complexity. Chukwunyere expressed gratitude to the traders for their support and accommodations, highlighting the collaborative spirit between the contractors and market leaders.
Former market leaders, Chief Anthony K. O. Emedosi and Eugene Nwanekezie, also commended Governor Soludo’s response, urging him to continue overseeing the project’s progress to ensure a lasting solution. They emphasised their support for Soludo’s administration, praising Chief Ochiogu for his advocacy that brought state attention to the market’s needs.
Additional market leaders, including Chief Emmanuel Nwadibia, a sectional head, and Mr. Chinyereugo Nwamaduka, Chairman of all Chairmen, echoed their appreciation, expressing optimism that the reconstruction would not only protect their businesses but also foster economic growth in Anambra. They described the project as a testament to Soludo’s dedication to improving infrastructure across the state and pledged their support for his continued leadership.
This reconstruction effort stands as a positive signal to the people of Anambra, showcasing the government’s commitment to listening to and addressing the challenges faced by local communities. The ongoing Sakamori project is seen as a significant step toward a safer, more resilient Ogbaru Main Market, bringing relief and renewed confidence to traders and residents alike.
