Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has said the ongoing construction of the Jattu Ultra-Modern Market in Etsako West Local Government Area is aimed at boosting commercial activities, creating economic opportunities, and improving the livelihoods of residents across Edo North and the state.

The governor made the remarks on Friday while inspecting the project, describing it as a strategic investment designed to stimulate trade and commerce and drive economic growth in Edo State.

Governor Okpebholo was accompanied on the inspection by the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh; former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Aliu Oshiomhole; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; and other senior government officials.

Expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, the governor said the project would transform Jattu into a major commercial hub serving traders from Edo State and beyond.

“We are not just building a market; we are developing a modern commercial centre that will serve the people of Edo North, Edo State and Nigerians from across the country.

“This is a central market for all of us. We are maintaining the highest construction standards. The market has multiple floors, a solid basement and a strong structural foundation. It is a massive project that will stand the test of time,” he said.

Okpebholo said the market project reflects his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of the people through impactful infrastructure while appreciating residents for their continued support.

The governor also linked his administration’s development agenda to his confidence in securing widespread public support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election.

“People ask how we intend to secure 2.5 million votes, but they overlook the impact of the projects we are delivering. Our performance will speak for us, and the people will respond accordingly,” he said.

Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, described Jattu Market as a historic commercial centre that had served the old Midwest Region for decades, saying its reconstruction would restore its status as one of the state’s leading trading hubs.

“This market will benefit the people of Edo North and the entire state. We commend President Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for governors to deliver meaningful projects and Governor Okpebholo for prioritising the reconstruction of this important market,” he said.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole also hailed the governor for rebuilding the more than 200-year-old market, describing it as an enduring symbol of Edo North’s commercial heritage.

Recalling his childhood experiences at the market, Oshiomhole said it had long served as a meeting point for traders from communities across the region.

“As a child, I sold baskets in this market. People from all parts of Edo North gathered here on market days to trade. Rebuilding it will preserve its rich history while providing a safer, more modern and more conducive environment for business.”

Responding to criticism over the cost of the project, Oshiomhole said the scale and quality of construction justified the investment.

“Anyone who understands the volume of reinforced concrete and structural work involved will appreciate that this project represents value for money,” he added.

The reconstruction of Jattu Ultra-Modern Market forms part of the Okpebholo administration’s broader urban renewal programme, which includes the redevelopment of Oba Market in Benin City and Ekpoma Modern Market, with improved facilities aimed at enhancing safety, convenience and economic productivity for traders across the state.

Signed: Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State