Okpebholo Unveils Mega Reconstruction Of Oba Market, Ending A Decade Of Traders’ Tears

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has announced that the long-awaited reconstruction of the historic Oba Market in Benin City, which was destroyed by fire nearly a decade ago, will be completed by June next year.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The governor disclosed this on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, during an inspection of the project site, where he was accompanied by senior government officials and warmly received by traders who had endured years of setbacks after unfulfilled promises from the previous administration.

Okpebholo explained that the reconstruction is being carried out with support from President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which provides states with resources to execute critical development projects. He assured traders that the new Oba Market would not only revive their businesses but also transform the location into a modern commercial hub.

The redesigned market will mirror a shopping mall, featuring a crèche, sick bay, restaurants, and even a mini fire station to safeguard against future disasters. The governor emphasized that the original traders would not be displaced but instead return to an improved and more conducive trading environment.

Project Manager Aneru Izuagbe revealed that the design includes 450 open stalls on the ground floor, while the upper floors will house lock-up shops for electronics, clothing, and other goods. Although the construction is scheduled to last 251 days and conclude in June 2026, he noted that efforts are underway to deliver ahead of schedule.

Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and pledged that contractors would be closely monitored to ensure timely completion of the landmark project.