Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing critical infrastructure that will promote trade, attract investment and accelerate sustainable development in riverine communities across the state.
Governor Oborevwori gave the assurance on Monday at the commissioning of a modern market in Oporoza Community, traditional headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.
Represented at the ceremony by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, the Governor said the project was part of deliberate efforts to strengthen grassroots economic activities and improve the livelihoods of rural communities.
He said the modern market would provide a conducive environment for traders and entrepreneurs, adding that the facility was designed to meet the commercial needs of Oporoza and neighbouring communities.
According to him, the market comprises 24 lock-up shops, 24 open shops, modern male and female restrooms, solar-powered water scheme and comprehensive landscaping to provide a clean, safe and functional trading environment.
Governor Oborevwori also assured the people that their request for an extension of the facility would be considered by the government once the market was put to effective use.
“This market is a clear demonstration of our commitment to grassroots development. We are determined to ensure that our riverine communities are not left behind in the development agenda of the state.
“We want this facility to support small businesses, create employment opportunities, increase economic activities and improve the internally generated revenue of the state”, he said.
The Governor urged community leadership and traders to take ownership of the facility, maintain it properly and ensure that it served the purpose for which it was established.
He added that the project was in line with the administration’s MORE Agenda, particularly its commitment to creating opportunities for all and promoting meaningful development across the state.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mr. Samuel Oligida, described the commissioning as a significant milestone in the economic development of Oporoza and environs.
Oligida said the facility would strengthen local enterprises, promote commerce and stimulate economic activities in the community.
“This project is about empowering our people and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. It is also a reflection of the MORE Agenda of this administration, which places the needs and welfare of the people at the centre of governance”, Oligida said.
The Commissioner commended the contractor for completing the project within record time and urged beneficiaries to protect the facility.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Riverine Infrastructure, Chief Ebikeme Clark, commended Governor Oborevwori for ensuring that development projects reached riverine communities, describing the intervention as a demonstration of equitable development.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Warri South West LGA, Hon. Sylvester Oromoni, represented by Mr. Christopher Tonwe, described the project as a valuable intervention that would boost economic activities in Oporoza.
The Chairman of Oporoza Community, Comrade Emmanuel Ebi, expressed gratitude to the Governor, describing the market as a landmark development in the history of the community.
The commissioning was attended by members of the Delta State House of Assembly, State Executive Council, traditional rulers, community leaders, traders and residents.
The high point was the official commissioning and formal handing over of the facility to the community leadership for allocation of shops to traders by the representative of the Governor and Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt Hon Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.
