The Chairman of Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State, Hon. Mudasiru Kamorudeen, has said the transformation of a government property in Akobo into an ultra-modern market was aimed at bringing commercial activities closer to residents and reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of the people.
Kamorudeen stated this on Tuesday during the commissioning of the market in Akobo, Ibadan. The facility comprises 300 shops and is equipped with modern amenities, including public toilets, warehouses, ample parking space and a mini fire station.
The chairman said the project was conceived to address the shortage of shop spaces in the area while safeguarding the interests of existing tenants.
According to him, traders operating at the former facility were duly accommodated and offered the opportunity to retain their shops at affordable rates, with the majority successfully reclaiming their spaces.
He noted that the market is strategically located to serve residents of Akobo and neighbouring communities, reducing the need for people to travel to major commercial centres such as Bodija, Gbagi and Aleshinloye for goods and services.
Kamorudeen added that the facility would stimulate economic growth, attract traders and investors from across Ibadan and further expand commercial activities within the local government area.
He explained that the redevelopment formed part of the council’s efforts to maximise the value of public assets for the benefit of residents, while also creating a modern commercial hub capable of meeting the needs of the growing Akobo community.
The chairman urged traders and other users of the facility to maintain it properly in order to preserve its quality and ensure its longevity.
He said: “We ensured that the sitting tenants were accommodated and offered shops at affordable rates, with the majority getting their shops back.
“What people travel to Bodija, Gbagi and Aleshinloye to buy can now be found here in Akobo. This market will boost economic activities and serve the needs of residents in this area.
“I urge all traders and users of this facility to maintain it properly so that it can serve the community for many years.”
Kamorudeen noted that the market’s supporting infrastructure, including warehouses, toilets, parking facilities and a mini fire station, was designed to provide a safe, convenient and modern trading environment for business owners and customers alike.
