The contractor handling the reconstruction of the Oba Market in Benin City has assured that the project will be completed and handed over to the Edo State Government within the next two weeks.
The contractor, Shahid Mahmud, gave the assurance while speaking with journalists during an inspection visit by the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, to assess the progress and quality of work at the site.
Mahmud disclosed that the reconstruction has reached about 97 percent completion, with only minor finishing works remaining.
According to him, most of the upper-level shops have been completed, while efforts are ongoing to finalize ground flooring and tiling on the lower level. He added that additional manpower has been deployed to ensure timely delivery of the project.
The rebuilt market, which was previously affected by fire incidents, has been transformed into a modern commercial hub. The upgraded structure features approximately 450 open shops on the ground floor, along with solar-powered lighting, ceiling fans, and other contemporary facilities designed to improve the trading environment.
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During the visit, Governor Okpebholo, accompanied by his team, toured different sections of the market and expressed satisfaction with the level of progress achieved.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fulfilling campaign promises, noting that the reconstruction of the market was a key pledge made to traders.
The governor said the project would provide a safer and more conducive environment for business activities, adding that it represents a tangible demonstration of his government’s dedication to improving infrastructure in the state.
Okpebholo also acknowledged the support of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that the President has shown consistent interest in the project and has provided necessary backing to ensure its completion.
The Oba Market, one of the most prominent trading centres in Edo State, suffered significant damage from fire outbreaks in previous years, prompting the ongoing reconstruction aimed at restoring and modernising the facility.
