Enugu, Nigeria – The Enugu State Government has initiated the construction of a new International Motor Spare Parts and Allied Trades Market at 9th Mile, near Enugu, along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway.
Dr. Sam Ogbu-Nwobodo, Managing Director of the Enugu State Investment Development Authority, announced this development during a meeting with the leadership of the Enugu Motor Spare Parts and Allied Trades Association, Coal Camp, Enugu, on Monday. He emphasized that this project fulfills Governor Peter Mbah’s electoral promise to create a world-class market for the association.
Ogbu-Nwobodo highlighted the dire conditions at the current Coal Camp market, describing it as environmentally hazardous and unsuitable for business. He noted that the traders had requested a more conducive business environment during the last campaign period, and the government has now begun to deliver on that promise.
“Today, as we speak, work has commenced on the site. The governor is fulfilling the promise he made to the traders, and he is relentless in making sure that their businesses grow,” Ogbu-Nwobodo said.
The new market will feature modern facilities, including shops and warehouses, police posts, fire protection systems, banks, parks, schools, health facilities, a union center, and recreational facilities. This development aims to create an ecosystem that supports modern commercial and light industrial activities.
Ogbu-Nwobodo explained that the 9th Mile location was strategically chosen as it is a major business hub in the state, facilitating further development in the area. He added that the new market would offer easy access to traders from the North, Ebonyi, Cross River, Central Africa, and beyond, reducing the need to navigate through the city for offloading or exporting goods.
Chief Mike Nomeh, President of the association, expressed relief and gratitude, noting that previous administrations had neglected the traders’ welfare. He urged the governor to ensure the market’s swift completion, highlighting the urgent need to move from the current Coal Camp location.
Mr. Benjamin Eze, a Line Chairman at the market, praised the governor’s initiative, sharing that he had spent over 30 years at Coal Camp yearning for better accommodations. He expressed optimism about the future, saying, “I know that the governor is capacity-filled. I urge him to keep up with this pace because it will benefit all of us.”
The new market is expected to significantly boost business growth and improve the overall welfare of the traders in Enugu State.