In a determined effort to address the issue of street trading in Anambra State, Governor Chukwuma Soludo has commissioned the Solution Arena in Awka. This new facility, located at the Club Road junction, offers designated spots for selling fruits, vegetables, grills, and other items, all free of charge to street traders.
Governor Soludo described the Solution Arena as a prototype for similar structures that will be established across Anambra cities to permanently resolve the street trading problem. He emphasized that this initiative provides Anambra women, who work tirelessly every day to make a living, with a decent and suitable environment to trade their wares.
Highlighting the free accommodation, Governor Soludo stressed that this initiative aligns with the APGA motto, “Be Your Brother’s and Sister’s Keeper.” He noted that instead of obstructing traffic and littering the environment, traders now have a responsibility to maintain cleanliness in their designated spots.
Governor Soludo commended the Managing Director of the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA), Mr. Ossy Onuko, for spearheading the project. He revealed that other markets, including the Ọdụ Igbo market in Onitsha, are also being transformed into convenient shopping arenas.
Mr. Onuko noted that the project aligns with Governor Soludo’s vision to develop well-planned towns, cities, and markets. He pledged that the state government will continue to undertake people-oriented projects that positively impact lives. He also urged beneficiaries to safeguard the new facility.
The initiative will benefit over fifty individuals displaced by the crackdown on street trading in the state.
The event was attended by key figures including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Principal Secretary to the Governor, Barr. Joachin Anaeto, and President General of the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU), Barr. Titus Akpudo, among others.
