May 13, (THEWILL) – The Ebonyi State government has said that it generates an average of three hundred million naira from the popular International Market, through the Board of Internally Generated Revenue.
This was disclosed by the Commissioner for Market Development and Parks, Professor Nwogo Ajuka Obasi, during an interview with journalists in Abakaliki on Tuesday.
Obasi also said that the ministry has been able to recover over 483 shops that were illegally occupied, while attributing the successes made in the market to good leadership.
He said, “Today we have a very strong database in Ebonyi International market. If you come, whatever, if you just mention any shop, I’ll be able to give you the status of that shop. We’re able to recover over 483 shops that were illegally occupied, and so government has been making money, averagely. There was a time we made 300 million per month.
“His Excellency is determined to ensure an enabling environment that attracts both local and foreign investors. Based on that mandate, we introduced key innovations after reviewing the situation we met on ground”, Prof. Obasi said.
He highlighted that prior to the current administration, the major problem in the state’s marketplaces stemmed from leadership crises, largely due to imposed market leaders by previous administrations. This situation, he noted, led to disorder, insecurity, and even violence.
“Once we identified the root of the problem, the governor gave us the free hand to conduct elections. That was the first breakthrough.
“The traders elected their own leaders, which improved management, reduced crime, and enhanced security. Since Governor Nwifuru assumed office, there have been no killings in the markets”, he noted.
Prof. Obasi also pointed out the economic boost resulting from the reforms, stating that the market now attracts international traders, particularly from Cameroon and other neighbouring countries.
“Efforts are ongoing to bring in more business partnerships, especially with shoe dealers from Aba”, he added.
Regarding the ongoing restructuring and demolition of certain market structures at Okwo Ngbo market in Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi State, the Commissioner acknowledged the developments, explaining that sacrifices are necessary for progress.
“Development requires restructuring. Some structures have to give way. While the markets belong to the local governments, we are aware of the changes being implemented”, he stated.
On Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), Prof. Obasi revealed significant improvements since the reforms began. “Before I assumed office, many shops were illegally held—some individuals had up to 16 shops without making any payments. We have now built a strong database and recovered 483 shops. There was a time we generated up to N300 million monthly from the market”, he stressed.
He also explained that IGR from markets and parks is managed through the state’s Board of Internal Revenue, often handled through contracted payment systems.
Despite the challenges, Prof. Obasi emphasised the government’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and continued progress in market development. “Though it hasn’t been easy, the progress is remarkable. Today, Ebonyi International Market stands as a testament to what determined governance and proper leadership can achieve”, he concluded.
Sunday Ogbu is a professional journalist with eight - twelve years experience that had worked with various print and online media. Sunday specializes in news reporting with the aim of educating his readers on current social, political and economic occurences within his area of coverage. Sunday is a strong force to work with in the media industry and uses his positive attitude and tireless energy to encourage others to work hard and succeed. Sunday is inspired daily by his wife and their four children. In his free time, Sunday likes sight-seeing, reading and discussing issues of societal interest.
