Abia Government to Complete Reconstruction of Ekeoha Shopping Centre in Weeks

The Abia State Government has announced that the ongoing reconstruction of the first phase of Ekeoha Shopping Centre in Aba is expected to be completed in the coming weeks, enabling traders to return to their shops before the end of April.

The Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Mrs. Obiukwu, made this statement during a joint inspection of the market alongside the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade, Commerce, and Industry, Chief Nwaka Inem. She emphasized that original shop owners would be given priority in the allocation process.

“Our aim is to reassure traders that His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, is committed to their welfare. Once the minor remaining works are completed, the first two blocks will be ready for allocation by the end of April,” Mrs. Obiukwu said. She also encouraged market leaders to ensure that traders participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise, aiming for 99% of traders to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in support of Governor Otti’s second-term ambitions.

Chief Nwaka Inem highlighted that the state government is committed to modernizing markets with minimal disruption to traders. “Our visit today demonstrates that the government’s promises were genuine. Original traders will return, and the market will be improved, with increased capacity,” he said. Chief Inem added that the government would continue monitoring the developer to ensure compliance with the agreed terms.

Project Manager of Rhino Homes, Arch. Gbenga Bamgboye, reported that the first phase of the project, consisting of 984 shops, is approximately 97% complete. He noted that the remaining facilities, including a 20-tonne lift, internet access, and advanced safety measures such as fire-resistant steel roofing and hose reels, would be ready in a few weeks.

Traders, including Blessing Ude, Mr. Morgan, and Mr. Jude Osuagwu, expressed satisfaction with the new market, thanking Governor Otti for turning their vision of a modern, safer trading environment into reality.