By Staff Reporter
The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering critical infrastructure and expanding economic opportunities in riverine communities across the state.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori stated this on Monday during the commissioning of a modern market in Oporoza, the traditional headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State.
The Governor, who was represented by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, said the project was part of his administration’s deliberate efforts to strengthen grassroots economic activities, promote trade and improve the livelihoods of rural communities under the MORE Agenda.
He said the new market would provide a conducive environment for traders and entrepreneurs while serving the commercial needs of Oporoza and neighbouring communities.
According to him, the facility comprises 24 lock-up shops, 24 open shops, modern male and female restrooms, a solar-powered water scheme and comprehensive landscaping, among other features designed to provide a clean, safe and functional trading environment.
“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,” the Governor said.
Oborevwori also assured the community that its request for an extension of the market would be considered by the government after the facility had been put to effective use.
He urged community leaders and traders to take ownership of the project, maintain the facility properly and ensure that it served the purpose for which it was established.
The Governor noted that the project was in line with the MORE Agenda of his administration, particularly its focus on creating opportunities for all and ensuring meaningful development across Delta 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 its environs.
Oligida said the facility would strengthen local enterprises, promote commerce and stimulate economic activities within 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,” he said.
The Commissioner commended the contractor for completing the project within record time and urged the beneficiaries to protect and maintain the facility.
Also speaking, 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.
The Chairman of Warri South West Local Government Area, Hon. Sylvester Oromoni, represented by Mr. Christopher Tonwe, also described the project as a valuable intervention that would boost economic activities in Oporoza.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Oporoza Community, Comrade Emmanuel Ebi, expressed appreciation to the state government, describing the market as a landmark development in the history of the community.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by members of the Delta State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, community leaders, traders and residents.
The event climaxed with the official commissioning and formal handing over of the facility to the community leadership for the allocation of shops to traders by the Governor’s representative and Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor.
