The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has instructed the Department of Development Control to immediately demolish any structures obstructing roadways at the Kugbo International Market. This directive was issued on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, during Wike's inspection of the market, which is currently under construction, and the proposed Ministry of Livestock Development in the Central Business District.
The market is a public-private partnership between the Abuja Investment Company (AICL) and Mesotho Group Limited, a private business entity. Wike expressed his support for the project, calling it an investment worth encouraging. He noted the market's potential for economic growth but highlighted issues of encroachment, ordering the immediate removal of any obstacles on the road corridors.
Wike also urged the Mesotho Group to increase its investment to ensure the market's completion, stating, "The investor should invest more funds to ensure the entire market is realized." He noted that while the first phase of the market is complete, traders currently operating on the roadside will soon be relocated to the market to improve traffic flow.
Regarding support for small traders under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Wike emphasized the government's commitment to empowering less privileged entrepreneurs. He suggested that some shops could be made available to traders through empowerment programs.
Wike further stressed that the market will create significant employment opportunities for FCT residents, enhance the local economy, and help reduce road congestion by moving traders off the streets. He also addressed concerns about shop prices, insisting that while the investor must recoup costs, efforts will be made to ensure the prices remain affordable.
"The Abuja Investment Company will work with the investor to ensure an agreement is reached, even if it means involving the government to make the market accessible to more traders," Wike concluded.
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