By Ononye VC
The administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo has officially commenced the phased regeneration of the Onitsha Main Market; an initiative that marks a significant step in the state government’s broader urban renewal program aimed at modernizing commercial infrastructure across Anambra State.
As part of the project’s execution phase, the State Commissioner for Housing, Architect Henry Arize formally handed over the designated construction site to the appointed contractor.
This transfer of possession allows the construction firm to mobilize equipment and personnel to the site to begin construction work.
In the regeneration project, the demolished areas will be replaced with modern facilities designed to improve safety, increase commercial capacity, and provide a more organized environment for traders and customers.
Speaking shortly after meeting with traders, market leadership and and the contractors, the Housing Commissioner emphasized that in line with the directive of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, the project will be carried out in phases to ensure that daily business activities within the parts of the market continue with minimal disruption, a move that aligns with the government’s commitment to transforming Onitsha into a world-class commercial hub by upgrading its essential trade infrastructure.
Following the site handover, the contractor is expected to adhere to the project timeline of 16 weeks and technical specifications provided by the State government to ensure the timely completion of the upgraded facilities.
Speaking on behalf of others, the contractors including, Ferotex Construction and Ozo United confirmed that they have been mobilized and that they are ready to commence immediate construction.
The Commissioner for Commerce, Nomso Ebonwu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Projects, Professor Ebuka Nwankwo, MD, Bureau of Public Procurement, Mr. Obi Okonkwo, representatives from the Ministry of Local Government Affairs, Ministry of Power and Water Resources, Ministry of Works, Main Market Chairman, among others, were on ground to witness the symbolic event.
