The contractor handling the reconstruction of Oba Market in Benin City, Engr. Shahid Mahmud, has assured that the project will be completed and handed over to the Edo State Government (EDSG) within the next two weeks.

Mahmud gave the assurance while speaking to journalists shortly after an inspection visit by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, who arrived at the site unannounced to assess the level and quality of work done.

According to the contractor, the project has reached about 97 per cent completion, with only minor finishing works left. He explained that while the upper sections of the market are nearly completed, efforts are currently focused on ground flooring and tiling at the lower level.

“We have deployed additional manpower to ensure timely delivery. The remaining work is minimal, and we are confident the project will be ready for handover within two weeks,” he said.

Mahmud further disclosed that the rebuilt market, which was previously gutted by fire incidents in 2020 and 2025, has been transformed into a modern commercial complex. The facility now features about 450 open shops on the ground floor, along with solar-powered lighting, ceiling fans, and other modern amenities designed to enhance trading activities.

During the visit, Governor Okpebholo was conducted round the project site by engineers and project managers, inspecting various sections of the reconstructed market.

Speaking to journalists after the inspection, the governor expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, noting that the project fulfills a key campaign promise to traders in the state.

“You can see the progress for yourself. We made a promise during our campaign to rebuild this market, and today, that promise is being fulfilled. This project will provide a more conducive and secure environment for our traders,” he said.

The governor also attributed the progress recorded on the project to the support of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he commended for his interest and intervention.

According to him, the President has consistently shown concern about the project and ensured the release of funds to address challenges and accelerate completion.

Oba Market, one of the most prominent commercial hubs in Benin City, suffered devastating fire outbreaks in 2020 and again in 2025, necessitating its comprehensive reconstruction.

The statement was signed and made available to journalists by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele.