The ancient city of Nsukka came alive on Saturday as Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State officially flagged off the construction of the ambitious 5,000-shop Nsukka International Market, a major step in his administration’s drive to boost commerce and inclusive development across the state.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Governor Mbah reiterated his commitment to carrying everyone along in the development process, especially those directly affected by government projects.
The Governor addressed ongoing concerns that former traders at the Ogige Market were being sidelined, stating that the allegations were politically motivated and untrue.
“This project has stirred emotions and, unfortunately, some have tried to twist the narrative,” Mbah said.
“Our intention is simple, to develop all parts of Enugu State equally. That’s why we are building modern transport terminals not only in Ogbete, Abakpa, and Gariki but also here in Nsukka.”
He emphasized that the development of the Nsukka Transport Terminal and the upcoming market are part of a broader vision to revamp the state’s transport and commercial infrastructure.
Governor Mbah set a clear timeline for the project’s completion, expressing optimism that the new market would be ready by end of 2025.
He also assured displaced traders from the former Ogige Market that they would be given priority in the allocation of shops in the new facility.
“We will complete the shops in four months, and those displaced by our development projects especially from Ogige will have the right of first refusal. That’s our commitment,” he stated.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area, Engr. Jude Asogwa, described the governor’s initiatives as transformational.
“From the modern transport terminal to this new international market, the development we’re witnessing under your leadership is unprecedented,” Asogwa said.
“I’ve already asked affected traders to come forward and register so they can reclaim their spots.”
Other key stakeholders also applauded the governor.
House of Reps member, Hon. Chidi Mark Obetta, State Assembly member Hon. Malachy Onyechi and Enugu State Commissioner for Health, Prof. George Ugwu, all commended Mbah’s commitment to regional development.
Prof. Ugwu further highlighted the N1 billion oxygen plant facilitated by the governor at the Nsukka General Hospital as another indicator of the administration’s impact in the zone.
The delegation assured Governor Mbah of Enugu North Zone’s full support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Earlier in the day, Governor Mbah paid a courtesy visit to Igwe Samuel Asadu, Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council at his palace in Edem Ani.
Igwe Asadu and other traditional leaders, including Igwe Tony Ezema of Obimo, praised the governor for his inclusive policies and for facilitating the appointment of Prof. Simon Ortuanya as the first indigenous Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Rounding off his working visit, Mbah also commissioned the School of Health – Stadium – GRA – Secretariat – Prisons Ring Road, a major access route rehabilitated by Engr. Asogwa’s local government administration.
