ONICCIMA commends Soludo for remodeling of Onitsha Main Market

The Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture(ONICCIMA), has commended the governor of Anambra State, Prof.Chukwuma Soludofor the remodeling and modernization of Onitsha Main Market, renowned as the largest commercial hub in West Africa.

Speaking at a press conference, the president of the association, Chinedu Nwonu said that they wholeheartedly support the long-overdue transformation which is aimed at restoring the market’s prestige through the provision of essential modern facilities including adequate vehicular parking lots, proper fire-fighting equipment, security posts, CCTCV Surveillance, improved ventilation, all designed for convenience and enhanced shopping experience.

He said that they equally recognize that the current fragmented state of the market, resulting from years of unauthorized encroachments has undermined its functionality and sustainability.

However, he said that they are deeply concerned about the profound hardship inflicted on numerous shop owners and traders whose structures, ranging from individual shops and plazas and other valuables have been affected by the demolition exercise.

His words,“In many instances, individuals have lost multiple investments, leading to significant economic distress, loss of livelihoods, and emotional trauma amidst reports of tears, wailing and lamentations. It is particularly troubling that successive administrations through collusions involving local government officials, political elites, and non-state actors, permitted the balkanization and sale of public spaces within the main market originally designated for parks, roads, open areas were sold to unsuspecting buyers who invested heavily in good faith.”