Soludo Urges Anambra Traders to Reopen Markets and Boost Economic Activities

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has urged traders to confidently resume business starting on Monday, asserting that the sit-at-home directive has been completely overcome.

In an appeal to all traders throughout the state, including those in Onitsha Main Market, which faced closure two weeks prior but reopened last week, he emphasized the necessity for businesses to operate fully.

A statement issued on his behalf by his Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, encouraged traders to open their shops in order to showcase their goods and allow their businesses to thrive.

Aburime noted in the statement: "Last Monday marked a historic and remarkable event in Anambra. For the first time in over five years, Onitsha Main Market displayed a vibrant activity on a Monday."

He continued, "The streets buzzed with life as shops opened, and traders engaged with customers, marking a departure from the silence of fear to the lively sounds of progress."

"We now call upon every market, from Nkwo Nnewi to Eke Awka, from Ose to Ogbogwu and all other areas in Anambra: Open your business. Showcase your products. Let your enterprise shine. To customers and patrons, who drive our economy: Go out with assurance. Your presence fuels this revival."

"The shared bravery we exhibited last week should become our norm this week and continuously."

"Yes, come forward. Set up your businesses. Purchase and trade. The time for reluctance has passed. We are in a period ripe for recovery, growth, progress, and prosperity. Avoid the past habits of retreating into fear and poverty. We are determined to thrive in the marketplace, in good faith," he remarked.

The governor confirmed that adequate security measures have been put in place, assuring traders that security operatives are present, even if not always visible.

"There should be no doubt in anyone's mind: the security measures in place are robust, vigilant, and unwavering, even if their presence isn’t immediately apparent."

"State police, joint task force, and Agunechemba vigilante groups have been deployed not merely as a reaction but as a lasting protective measure surrounding our markets."

"Last week’s peaceful, bustling environment proved that our spaces are secure. The apprehension that once confined us has been dismantled through firm actions and the reassuring presence established by Governor Soludo."

"Every Monday that opens represents a reclaimed opportunity for revenue, revitalized livelihoods, and renewed hopes. It's an investment in education, infrastructure, and our future. The prosperity of Ndi Anambra is closely tied to the vibrancy of our markets and businesses during the week."

David-Chyddy Eleke