Makinde inaugurates 177 shops, motor park in Oyo

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Friday inaugurated 69 lock-up shops, 108 open stalls, a motor park, a new road network and a modern restaurant built by the Ibadan North-East Local Government at Agodi-Gate Market in Ibadan. The projects were commissioned during a ceremony held at Araromi Market as part of efforts to improve trading and transportation facilities in the area.

Speaking at the event, Makinde said his administration would continue to support projects that improve governance and the lives of residents across the state. He noted that the partnership between the state and local governments had produced visible development in different parts of Oyo State.

The governor directed that traders operating along the roadside at Agodi-Gate Market should be moved into the newly completed shops without paying any fee. He warned anyone attempting to collect money from the affected traders and urged them to report such actions to the appropriate authorities.

Makinde explained that the government decided to provide proper trading spaces before enforcing restrictions on roadside trading. According to him, many roadside traders rely on their businesses to support their families and educate their children, making it necessary to provide suitable alternatives before asking them to relocate.

He also said the newly completed market and motor park had restored business activities in the area by providing a safer and more organised environment for traders, transport operators and customers. He urged those using the facilities to maintain them properly and ensure they remain clean and orderly.

The governor’s visit came a day after he commissioned another set of projects at Bodija International Market, including a road network, a fire service building and a modern car park with shops completed by the Ibadan North Local Government.

Chairman of Ibadan North-East Local Government, Ibrahim Akintayo, thanked the governor for supporting projects that directly benefit residents. He said the new facilities would improve commercial activities, create employment opportunities, boost sanitation, support orderly transportation and increase revenue for the local government.

Akintayo also appealed to transport unions, market associations, traders and other users of the facilities to protect the projects by maintaining cleanliness, preventing vandalism and following operational guidelines.

Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, appreciated the governor for his continued support for local councils and praised stakeholders who contributed to the successful completion of the projects.

The event was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, market leaders, religious leaders and other dignitaries from across the state.