ENUGU: Oji-River Traders Embrace Government’s Market Reforms, Pledge Support for Tax Compliance

  

..As SSA Market Liaison Leads Monitoring Team on a Strategic Engagements with Market Leadership 

Traders across various markets in Oji River Local Government Area, Enugu State, were filled with joy and excitement as Governor Peter Mbah’s Market Monitoring Team visited their communities. The team, led by the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Market Liaison, Hon. Dr. Chinedu Mbah, embarked on this visit as part of the administration’s ongoing efforts to engage traders and reposition markets across the state.

The visit, which took place on April 2, 2025, began with a courtesy call on the Chairman of Oji River Local Government. The Chairman, represented by his Deputy, Barr. Saint Nwokolo, welcomed the team and assured them of the local government’s full cooperation in supporting the state government’s market reforms.

The delegation proceeded to Nkwo Inyi Market, where they were warmly received by the market leadership. Addressing the traders, Hon. Dr. Chinedu Mbah emphasized the need for proper tax compliance, discouraging illegal cash payments while advocating for electronic payment systems. 

He also cautioned against the construction of unauthorized structures within the market. In response, the traders pledged their support and appealed for government intervention in addressing critical needs within the market. Notably, some leadership disputes among the traders were peacefully resolved on the spot, fostering unity and renewed cooperation.

During the visit to Inyi, the team also paid homage to the traditional ruler, HRH Igwe Ignatius Okpara, at his palace. The royal father commended the government’s initiative and pledged his support for the market reforms.

At Ugwuoba Cattle Market, the SSA and his team were received by the market’s secretary, Abdullah Muhammad. Traders were urged to maintain peace, adhere to government directives on illegal structures, and ensure timely tax payments. The traders expressed their willingness to comply, appreciating the state government’s efforts to improve the business environment.

The monitoring team’s final stop was Oji River Wonderful Market, where they were greeted with enthusiasm by the market chairman, Chief Ndubuisi Agu. The traders lauded Governor Mbah’s commitment to market development and highlighted pressing issues such as erosion and unauthorized structures, which the SSA personally inspected. He assured them that their concerns would be promptly communicated to the governor for necessary action.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, market leaders across Oji River LGA expressed their joy that the government had remembered them. They voiced confidence that Governor Peter Mbah would address their needs and continue his efforts to transform markets across Enugu State.

This visit marks yet another step in the administration’s commitment to fostering a thriving business environment, ensuring that traders operate in well-structured, transparent, and supportive market systems.

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