The Agege Local Government of Lagos State has flagged off the construction of a modern market complex named after the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.

The market is aimed at boosting commercial activity and empowering local traders in the area.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony held on Monday, the Executive Chairman of the council, Ganiyu Egunjobi, described the MKO Abiola Market as a transformative project that would redefine commerce in Agege and Lagos State at large.

“This market is not just bricks and mortar; it is a platform for opportunities.

“Opportunities for hundreds of traders and artisans to have access to modern stalls and facilities, while thousands of shoppers will benefit from the improved business ecosystem it will create,” Egunjobi said.

Developed through a Public-Private Partnership involving Urban Shelter and Truworth Ventures, the project is expected to provide decent, hygienic, and accessible stalls for small business owners and market women.

According to the chairman, the new market also honours the legacy of MKO Abiola, who stood for democracy, justice, and people-centred development.

“Named in honour of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, this market will not only stimulate local commerce, it will also immortalise a legacy that represents justice, equity, and economic empowerment,” he said.

Egunjobi, who is in the final weeks of his tenure, noted that the impact of the market would be far-reaching—from job creation during construction to improving the daily business operations of traders in Agege.

“It will create employment opportunities all through and grow the economy of our dear community.

“In another way, it will improve the ease of doing business in Agege and beautify our landscape,” he said.

He thanked the development partners for their commitment and assured residents that the market would be built to last.

“To our partners, Urban Shelter and Truworth Ventures, thank you for believing in our vision and investing in our people. Your expertise, passion, and professionalism give us confidence that what we begin today will stand the test of time,” he said.

Egunjobi also called on residents to take ownership of the project and safeguard it for future generations.

“To the good people of Agege, this market belongs to you. I urge you to take ownership, protect it, and use it to better your lives and those of your children,” the chairman said.

Among notable interventions, Egunjobi said the council constructed new classroom blocks in public primary schools, built a Computer-Based Test centre, touted as the first by any local government in Nigeria, and established a modern legislative complex.

In the health sector, he said his administration built and equipped primary health centres, introduced free ambulance services, and upgraded maternity facilities.

To boost social welfare, he said the council launched a monthly financial aid programme that supported over 8,000 traders and artisans with N100,000 each.

He said his administration engaged hundreds of unemployed youths and informal workers under local security and sanitation schemes, placing them on monthly stipends ranging from N10,000 to N50,000.

Egunjobi also said his administration prioritised education and transportation by providing free school buses, uniforms, and learning materials to pupils in public schools.

He noted that some legacy projects, including an upcoming luxury estate and ongoing road rehabilitation works have been structured to continue under the incoming administration. (PUNCH)