Edo Building World-Class Jattu Market to Drive Trade, Jobs — Okpebholo

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, says the ongoing reconstruction of the historic Jattu Market in Etsako West Local Government Area is designed to stimulate economic activities, improve livelihoods and position Edo as a stronger commercial destination.

The governor made the remarks on Friday while inspecting the construction of the ultra-modern market, describing the project as a key component of his administration's infrastructure agenda aimed at expanding trade and commerce across the state.

Okpebholo was accompanied on the inspection by the Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh, former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District Adams Oshiomhole, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly Blessing Agbebaku and other government officials.

Expressing satisfaction with the pace of work, the governor assured residents that his administration would continue to execute projects that directly improve living standards and create economic opportunities.

According to him, the project goes beyond rebuilding a traditional market, noting that it is being developed as a modern commercial centre capable of serving traders and businesses across Edo State and other parts of the country.

"We are not just building a market but a modern standard market for our people in Edo North, Edo State, as well as Nigerians who will benefit from this project when completed.

"This is a central market for all of us and we are maintaining high standards of construction. We have different floors in this market. A lot of work has been done in the basement, the structure is very strong and solid, and the construction is massive."

The governor said the project also reflects his administration's commitment to rewarding the confidence reposed in it by residents, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Okpebholo maintained that the quality and impact of ongoing developmental projects across Edo State would ultimately shape public support for his administration ahead of the 2027 general election.

Responding to questions about his earlier projection of delivering 2.5 million votes for President Tinubu in Edo State, the governor said the target would be driven by visible development projects and improved governance.

"People wonder how we will get the 2.5 million votes, but they forget that this government is doing a lot for Edo people. Our votes will come from the numerous projects we have embarked upon for the benefit of our people."

He added that criticisms surrounding the target did not reflect the views of many residents, whom he said appreciate the administration's developmental efforts.

Speaking during the inspection, Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, described Jattu Market as one of the region's oldest commercial centres, noting that it has served traders across the former Midwest Region for decades.

He commended both President Tinubu and Governor Okpebholo for reviving the historic market, saying the project would provide traders with a safer and more conducive business environment.

"This market will serve the people of Edo North and Edo State in general. Prices are cheap here, and we thank President Tinubu for providing the resources for governors to work for their people and the governor for considering the reconstruction of this market."

Former Governor Adams Oshiomhole also praised the reconstruction, describing the more than 200-year-old market as an important part of Edo North's commercial and cultural heritage.

Recalling his childhood experiences at the market, Oshiomhole said generations of traders from different communities had relied on Jattu Market as a major centre for commerce.

"As a child, I wove and sold baskets in this market. All the communities in Edo North come here on market days to trade in various commodities."

He also defended the cost of the project against criticism, arguing that the scale and engineering quality of the construction justified the investment.

"I want to correct critics who have questioned the cost of the project. If they calculate the volume of reinforced concrete used on each floor, they will understand that the project is worth the investment."

The reconstruction of Jattu Market forms part of the Edo State Government's broader programme to modernise public markets across the state.

Other major markets, including Oba Market and Ekpoma Modern Market, are also undergoing redevelopment with upgraded facilities aimed at improving safety, efficiency and the overall trading environment for merchants.