Traders at the famous Ariaria International Market in Aba, Abia State, have expressed excitement over the state government’s plan to remodel the market into a world-class trading hub.
The project, spearheaded by Governor Alex Otti’s administration in partnership with developer Checkbest International Limited, is designed to create a safer, more conducive business environment and permanently tackle the perennial flooding that has plagued the market.
Sir Hyacinth Ositadinma Nnabude, Treasurer of the market and Chairman of the Remodelling Work Sub-Committee, said traders are embracing the development wholeheartedly.
“We are thrilled about this project, and we believe it will boost our businesses and improve our livelihoods. Every affected trader will be given priority to reclaim their shops once the remodelling is completed,” Nnabude assured.
He explained that the agreement between the government, traders, and the developer guarantees the right of first refusal for shop allocation and provides alternative relocation shops during construction.
Prince Stanley Obazuo Meshach, another committee member, praised Governor Otti and the developer for their commitment.
“The developer has already built about 400 shops for relocation, which shows the government’s concern for the welfare of traders. We must all come together and support this project,” Obazuo said.
Hon. Uchenna Ikechi, another trader, also lauded the initiative, stressing that the remodelling marks a long-awaited solution to the challenges faced by the market.
Checkbest International Limited’s Managing Director, Mr. Chiedozie Njoku, reaffirmed that no trader would lose their shop under the new arrangement.
“This project is being executed in phases to avoid disruptions. We are determined to make Ariaria an international-standard market while ensuring traders continue their businesses during the process,” Njoku said.
Traders, including Chief Eberechi Martin Maduka, Comrade Uchenna Echeka, and Mr. Uchenna Onyejiemeli, noted that the current poor state of the market—with leaking roofs, flooding, and destruction of goods—makes the remodelling timely and necessary.
With optimism, the traders pledged full support to the government and developer, expressing confidence that the project would transform Ari
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