Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has commissioned 177 new trading facilities, a motor park, road network and a modern restaurant at Agodi-Gate Market in Ibadan.
The projects, comprising 69 lock-up shops and 108 open stalls, were delivered by the Ibadan North-East Local Government Area.
Speaking during the commissioning at Araromi Market, Agodi-Gate, Makinde said the developments were part of efforts to improve infrastructure and make governance more responsive to the needs of residents.
The governor directed that traders currently operating along the roadside at the market should be moved into the newly constructed shops without payment.
Makinde said the government would provide alternatives for traders before restricting roadside trading.
He said, “We have decided that we will always make provisions before prohibiting roadside trading. What people fail to realise is that these traders use part of their little profit to send their children to school. So, we have done this project to ease their burden.”
He also warned beneficiaries against paying anyone for the shops, urging them to report any official or individual demanding money.
“Your names have been properly documented and the shops will be given to you free of charge. Report anyone who tries to collect money from you,” he said.
Makinde commended the Chairman of Ibadan North-East Local Government, Ibrahim Akintayo, for executing the projects, saying cooperation between the state and local governments had produced visible results.
According to him, the new facilities would help restore the commercial activities of the area while providing traders and commuters with a safer and more organised environment.
He urged traders, motorists and other users of the facilities to maintain them properly and use them responsibly.
Earlier, Akintayo said the projects were designed to improve transportation, stimulate commercial activities, create employment and enhance sanitation within the area.
He appealed to market associations, transport unions and business owners to maintain cleanliness, prevent vandalism and comply with operational guidelines.
The commissioning comes a day after Makinde inaugurated similar infrastructure at Bodija International Market, including a road network, fire service building, car park and shops constructed by the Ibadan North Local Government.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Adebayo Lawal; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo; Chief of Staff, Segun Ogunwuyi; government officials, market leaders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders.
