By DADA AYOKHAI
The Executive Council Chairman of Etsako West, Honorable Marvellous Muhizu Zibiri.has within a short period initiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the remodelling of three popular local markets in the area, namely Uchi, Ughele, and Jattu, respectively.
These traditional markets are patronized by the people, and this is the first time in recent history that any local government administration has attempted to remodel them.
Hon. Zibiri broke new ground as he flagged off the foundation laying ceremony for the first phase of the market remodelling in collaboration with
Aliade Engineering Ltd.
The various Heads of Departments in the local government, elected Councillors, top politicians, community leaders, a representative of the Otaru-in-Council, and other stakeholders were present at the flag-off
Alhaji Yahaya Sheshi, Engr David Ameh, Arc Ayoola, and Engr Friday Achepa represented Alaide Engineering Ltd., the contractor handling the project.
The council boss described the flagging-off ceremony as a “feat,” stating that he is fully committed to improving the economic situation of the local government and making sure that he left it better than when he assumed office.
He added that the remodelling of the markets is a first step in his administration’s vision for the local government.
Amidst thunderous applause from the appreciative crowd, Hon Zibiri highlighted the significant achievements of his administration, including the completion of the abandoned Uchi Primary School, the Afashio Primary Health Centre, and other landmark projects.
He assured that no part of the council will be neglected in the distribution of projects, emphasizing further that the provision of basic amenities to alleviate the suffering of the people and boost the local economy remains the topmost priority of his administration.
He emphasized that the selection of Aliade Engineering Ltd for the market remodelling project was based on the company’s proven track record as a major project financier and private real estate expert and pledged to extend the developmental projects to other communities before the expiration of his tenure in 2026.
Hon Zibiri stressed his commitment to providing equal opportunities to every community in Etsako West and urged them to take ownership of these projects by ensuring that standards are not compromised.
He expressed his gratitude to the Etsako youths for their exceptional maturity during the nationwide #endbadgovernance protest, urging them to continue their unalloyed support for the Obaseki-led administration as well as refrain from any act or behaviour that would portray them in bad light
.
The representative of the Otaru in Council emphasized deep appreciation to the council boss for his outstanding leadership, particularly in the realm of security and credited the successes recorded under Hon Zibiri to the transparent governance approach that allows the input of critical stakeholders in the decision-making process.
He lauded the selection of Auchi and Jattu for the pilot scheme of the market remodelling project and, like Oliver Twist, asked for more.
He also assured the council boss of unwavering support for the Obaseki administration.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Aliade Engineering Ltd, Engr Adah Ochoechi, pledged to leverage the company’s extensive experience in handling similar projects across the country to ensure timely delivery and adherence to specified standards for the market remodelling work.
Engr Ochoechi commended the Public-Private Arrangement (PPA) initiative and affirmed his company’s commitment to the agreement terms.
He stressed that private Indigenous participation is essential for development, considering the substantial cost that the government alone cannot bear.
He also emphasized the indispensable cooperation of the LGA staff in executing the project promptly.
