By Kingsley Ohens
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to economic transformation through strategic infrastructure development, declaring that the ongoing construction of the ultra-modern Jattu Market in Etsako West Local Government Area will serve as a major catalyst for trade, commerce, and economic growth across Edo State and beyond.
Governor Okpebholo made the declaration on Friday during an inspection tour of the expansive market project in Jattu, describing the development as a flagship economic initiative designed to improve livelihoods, stimulate commercial activities, and position Edo State as a leading commercial hub in Nigeria.
The governor was accompanied on the inspection tour by the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh; former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Aliu Oshiomhole; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; and other senior government officials.
Expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of work on the project, Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the Jattu Market development transcends the construction of a conventional marketplace, noting that it represents the creation of a world-class commercial ecosystem capable of serving traders and consumers from across Edo State and Nigeria.
“We are not merely constructing a market; we are building a modern, standard commercial facility for the people of Edo North, Edo State, and indeed Nigerians who will benefit from this project upon completion,” the governor stated.
“This is a central market for all of us, and we are ensuring that the highest standards are maintained throughout the construction process. The project incorporates multiple floors, substantial underground infrastructure, and a very strong structural foundation. What is being built here is massive and transformative.”
Governor Okpebholo further explained that the project forms part of his administration’s broader agenda of rewarding the confidence reposed in his government by the people of Edo State, while consolidating the developmental vision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to the governor, the numerous developmental projects currently underway across Edo State will ultimately determine the level of public support his administration and the APC receive during the 2027 general elections.
“Some people question our projection of securing 2.5 million votes, but they fail to recognize the extent of developmental work being carried out across the state. The support of our people will be earned through the visible impact of these projects on their daily lives,” he said.
Governor Okpebholo also dismissed criticisms surrounding the electoral target, insisting that Edo residents fully understand and appreciate the developmental priorities of his administration.
Speaking during the inspection, the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, described the Jattu Market as a historic commercial institution that has served the former Midwest Region for several decades. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Okpebholo for initiating the reconstruction project, noting that the renewed market infrastructure would significantly improve business conditions for traders.
“This market serves not only Edo North but the entire Edo State. It has historically remained a centre where commodities are affordable and commercial activities thrive. We appreciate President Tinubu for providing the necessary support for state governments to deliver meaningful projects and commend Governor Okpebholo for prioritizing the reconstruction of this important market,” Momoh stated.
Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Comrade Adams Aliu Oshiomhole, also praised Governor Okpebholo for undertaking the reconstruction of what he described as an over 200-year-old market with immense historical and economic significance.
Recalling his personal connection to the market, Oshiomhole noted that Jattu Market has, for generations, remained a major commercial destination for communities across Edo North.
“As a child, I wove and sold baskets in this market. People from various communities across Edo North have always gathered here on market days to trade in different commodities. This market is an integral part of our history and economic heritage,” he said.
Oshiomhole added that the reconstruction project would not only preserve the market’s historical significance but also provide traders and consumers with a safer, more organized, and modern commercial environment.
Addressing criticisms regarding the cost of the project, the former governor urged critics to assess the scale and technical specifications of the construction before making judgments.
“Those questioning the cost of this project should examine the volume of reinforced concrete and structural engineering involved in each level of the development. They will understand that this project represents value for money,” he remarked.
The reconstruction of Jattu Market forms part of Governor Okpebholo’s comprehensive strategy to modernize commercial infrastructure across Edo State. Other major markets, including Oba Market and Ekpoma Modern Market, are also undergoing extensive redevelopment aimed at creating safer, more efficient, and globally competitive trading environments.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, who reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to delivering infrastructure projects that stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities, and improve the quality of life for residents across Edo State.
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