Umunneochi Local Government Area witnessed a renewed wave of optimism as Mayor Chief Sunny Afurobi embarked on a tour across the council’s four zones to flag off the construction of Modern Community Daily and Evening Markets, a signature grassroots development initiative aimed at revitalising rural commerce and strengthening community life.
The flag-off ceremonies, held at Ngodo (Zone 1), Mbala (Zone 2), Ubahu Nneato (Zone 3), and Lekwesi Umuchieze (Zone 4), turned into colourful celebrations, with residents trooping out to welcome the Mayor in each location.
Speaking at the various sites, Mayor Afurobi said the market project represents a major step in bringing sustainable economic activities closer to the people.
He noted that the initiative was designed not only to enhance daily trading in rural communities but also to stimulate evening commerce, thereby encouraging safe and productive night-life in the council.
“This is the kind of community-based development our people have long desired,” he said. “Each market will serve as an economic hub where small businesses can flourish, creating new opportunities for our rural population.”
The Mayor highlighted that each market will feature 30 modern shops, backed by critical infrastructure such as Standard boreholes for market and public use, Solar-powered street lights, Public toilets, and general amenities comparable to urban commercial centres.
He encouraged community leaders to take full ownership of the projects and ensure they are put to optimal use.
To contractors, the Council Boss issued a clear directive: adhere strictly to approved designs and the Memorandum of Understanding. He affirmed that the council will closely monitor progress to prevent delays or wastage.
Mayor Afurobi expressed profound appreciation to Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti for approving and funding the market development scheme.
He assured that all funds released for the markets and other projects would be judiciously utilised with full transparency.
According to him, “Governor Otti has laid a solid foundation for the transformation of Abia State, and his impactful projects across communities will speak strongly for him beyond his first tenure.”
Receiving the project sites, the Supervisory Consultant and Contractor, Engr. Mike Eze, thanked the government for entrusting them with the project.
He pledged strict adherence to specifications and promised to complete the markets within two months.
He also revealed that the construction process will engage local labour and artisans to ensure security, synergy, and community participation.
Across all four zones, community leaders, lawmakers, and traditional institutions expressed immense joy and gratitude.
In Mbala, leaders including Dr. Chief Onyebuchi Ejim and Hon. Chukwubiko Ofoegbu appreciated the choice of the old Aho Ajala market square, saying the new market will revive the nearby health centre and town hall.
At Ngodo, Chief Onyekachi Emeh and Chief Divine Francis hailed the Mayor’s vision and said the redevelopment will expand the historic Orie Ngodo market.
In Ubahu Nneato, Honourable Mathias Umeh and traditional ruler Eze Emmanuel Azoro commended the Mayor and Governor Otti for bringing unprecedented development, promising electoral support in return.
At Lekwesi, leaders including Hon. Ugochukwu Francis and Engr. Lawrence Ozoemelam described Mayor Afurobi as an “action Mayor” whose tenure has been transformative. They pledged continued solidarity and support.
The event featured the formal handover of donated lands, official flag-off of the projects, and the ceremonial presentation of sites to contractors.
