Chinedum Elekwachi
It was jubilation galore in Ekwulobia in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra state as Governor Chukwuma Soludo inaugurated two projects in the area.
They projects are the Solution Market and Solution Park, which Governor Soludo are part of his administration’s comprehensive urban regeneration agenda.
“What we are commissioning today is consistent with the APGA mantra of leave no one behind,” he told the crowd.
“The Solution Market, alongside the modern park equipped with amenities, aims to create an environment that stimulates economic activity while improving the quality of life for residents.
“This new marketplace is notably the third built by the state government to cater to the specific needs,” Soludo explained.
The Governor explained that the facility particularly benefits those who will be displaced by the ongoing construction of the Ekwulọbịa flyover, which is currently gradually nearing completion.
“You find markets in all the nooks and crannies of Anambra, and this is no exception.
“The Solution Park promises to breathe new life into urban settings previously marked by desolation.
“We are doing a fundamental urban regeneration,” Soludo asserted.
He highlighted the features of the park, which includes expansive open spaces for parking, and a park for leisure.
The facility also boasts of solar power installations, canteen facilities, and reliable water supply.
“We are using this place as a model for what a modern market should look like.
“We want to ensure that citizens can “trade and shop in pleasure,” he added.
Ambitious plans announced
Soludo announced ambitious plans to further improve various sectors in line with his vision of elevating Anambra to a level akin to that of global cities.
“If we are aspiring to become like Dubai or Taiwan, we must lay a solid foundation.
“Our people must enjoy minimum pleasure,” he said, referencing the administration’s commitments to free education, free antenatal care, and complimentary delivery services for mothers.
Highlighting the collaborative nature of the project, the Governor noted that the Solution Market and Park are properties of the state government developed in partnership with local authorities, ensuring efficient and effective management.
“They have profiled those who will get shops here, free of cost to the beneficiaries,” he disclosed.
He said his administration focuses on empathy and compassion for the less-fortunate.
The ongoing development around the Ekwulọbịa tower of light and the forthcoming Odu Igbo project stand as testaments to this dedication.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Mrs Patricia Igwebuike, referred to the bus terminal as a legacy project aimed at alleviating congestion.
Also speaking, Chief Evarist Ubah, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Markets, noted that the facility signifies the complete urbanization of Ekwulọbịa.
Earlier, Dr. Chibueze Offorbike, the Chairman of Aguata Local Government, Chief Joseph Ezeokafor, as well as tricycle operators, bus drivers and market women, expressed appreciated Governor Soludo for the initiative that has transformed the area from a previously untouched bush to a developed space.
More than 10,000 party supporters were also on hand to receive the Governor as he formally inaugurated the two projects.
