The Lagelu Local Government Area of Oyo State has commissioned a 300-shop ultra-modern market in Akobo, Ibadan, as part of efforts to boost commercial activities, create business opportunities and improve the welfare of residents.
The market was commissioned on Tuesday by the Chairman of Lagelu Local Government, Hon. Mudasiru Kamorudeen.
The facility, developed from a former government property, is equipped with modern amenities, including public toilets, warehouses, ample parking space and a mini fire station to provide a conducive and secure environment for traders and customers.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Kamorudeen said the project was conceived to address the shortage of commercial spaces in Akobo and bring essential goods and services closer to residents.
He explained that the council also prioritised the interests of existing tenants by ensuring that traders operating at the former facility were accommodated and offered the opportunity to retain their shops at affordable rates.
According to him, the majority of the former occupants have successfully reclaimed their shops.
The council chairman noted that the strategic location of the market would reduce the pressure on residents to travel to major commercial centres such as Bodija, Gbagi and Aleshinloye to purchase goods and access services.
He expressed optimism that the facility would attract traders and investors from different parts of Ibadan, stimulate economic activities and expand the commercial potential of Lagelu Local Government.
Kamorudeen said the redevelopment was part of his administration’s commitment to maximising public assets for the benefit of residents and providing modern infrastructure to meet the needs of the growing Akobo community.
He urged traders and other users to take responsibility for maintaining the facilities to ensure their sustainability.
“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,” he said.
The chairman added that the supporting infrastructure, particularly the warehouses, public toilets, parking facilities and mini fire station, was designed to ensure convenience, safety and efficiency for traders and customers.
