Oyo governor inaugurates 69 lock-up shops, 108 stalls, motor park and road network in Ibadan.
Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Friday inaugurated 69 lock-up shops, 108 open stalls, a motor park, a new road network and a modern restaurant constructed by the Ibadan North-East Local Government at the Agodi-Gate Market in Ibadan.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony held at Araromi Market, Agodi-Gate, Governor Makinde said his administration would continue to promote effective governance and development at all levels across the state.
The governor also directed that roadside traders operating around the market be relocated into the newly constructed shops at no cost.
Governor Makinde said the decision was aimed at providing traders with a safer and more conducive environment while ensuring that efforts to curb roadside trading did not worsen the economic challenges faced by residents.
“I am glad today that we have restored the glory of this park through the Ibadan North-East Local Government. And as for the traders who sell their wares on the roadside, your names have been properly documented and the shops will be given to you free of charge,” he said.
“Report anyone who tries to collect money from you. Move away from the road and enter the park. We have decided that we will always make provisions before prohibiting roadside trading.”
The governor commended the Chairman of Ibadan North-East Local Government, Ibrahim Akintayo, for executing the projects, describing the development as evidence of effective collaboration between the state and local governments.
He said the new market and motor park had helped restore the area’s commercial activities while providing safer facilities for traders and commuters.
Makinde urged traders, motorists and other users to protect the facilities and use them responsibly.
In his welcome address, Akintayo thanked the governor for supporting people-oriented policies and said the projects would promote orderly transportation, stimulate commerce, create employment, improve sanitation and enhance revenue generation for the council.
He urged transport unions, market associations and other users to maintain cleanliness, prevent vandalism and comply with operational guidelines.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, expressed appreciation to the governor for his support for local councils and thanked stakeholders who contributed to the completion of the projects.
The commissioning came less than 24 hours after Makinde inaugurated a road network, fire service building, shops and an ultra-modern car park constructed by the Ibadan North Local Government at Bodija International Market.
The event was attended by Deputy Governor Adebayo Lawal, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo, Chief of Staff Segun Ogunwuyi, commissioners, local government chairmen, market leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other dignitaries.