By ESENVOSA IZAH

Shoppers in Eti-Osa Local Government at the ongoing “Ounje Eko” market initiative of the Lagos State Government say they are joyful over the exercise.

The shoppers, on Friday, expressed satisfaction and gratitude to the government for the initiative, aimed at reducing the prices of food items.

Shoppers had trooped the market on Friday following the directive of the government to open it in the spirit of the Easter celebration, deviating from its concept of a Sunday market.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the government had on March 17 inaugurated the market across 27 locations in Ikeja, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, Epe and Badagry divisions.

The market, which is to open on Sundays for six weeks, makes food items such as rice, eggs, beans, garri, among others available at discounted price.

NAN visit to two designated locations in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of the state, revealed that shoppers were trooping to buy food items at discounted prices.

One of them, Mrs Atanda Olanipeju, said that the food prices were reasonable and called for the initiative to be sustained.

“I appreciate the governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for this initiative; he has helped us tremendously, which is laudable and should be encouraged.

“For instance, eggs that I buy for N5,000 outside is sold for N2,700 in this market.

“I really love it! I want this kind of initiative to continue to reduce the burden we face due to the economic challenges,” Olanipeju said.

Another shopper, Mr Amos Fadesere, who described the initiative as lovely, however, urged the government to do more to alleviate the sufferings.

“I appreciate what the government is doing to reduce the pains of Lagosians, but we need it to do more.

“Initiatives like this and more, including providing job opportunities, skills acquisition, and others that can engage people, especially, youths, will go a long way to making the society a better place.

“More people will be engaged and able to take care of themselves and families; this will also reduce crimes and the state will be better for it,” he said.

Also, Mrs Joy Omolagbon said she got to know about the initiative from her neighbours, who confirmed the prices were reasonable.

“The prices are affordable and I appreciate the government for the effort it is taking to put smiles on our faces.

“At least, this festive period will be enjoyable because I am able to get some food items at cheaper prices.

“Food is important and should be made available for the citizens; governments at all levels should always prioritise the welfare of the people.

“Lagos State Government is doing well to cater for the people through this initiative and I give it kudos,” Omolagbon said.

Recall that shoppers, at the inception of the discount market on March 17 had complained of some hiccups.

The government had, however, promised to take care of the lapses noticed and given assurance of better outings. (NAN)

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