Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, on Monday commissioned the newly completed Omituntun Ultramodern Market in Omi Adio, Ido Local Government Area, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to modernising markets and providing traders with safe, organised business environments.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal, Makinde described the project as part of a long-term plan to phase out roadside trading across the state by replicating modern markets that meet global standards.
The new market consists of 406 lockup shops, 56 open stalls, an administrative office, a security post, clear walkways and toilet facilities, among other amenities. It is the fourth ultramodern market completed under Makinde’s leadership, following similar projects in Oyo, Akinyele and Ogbomoso South.
“I am happy that everybody here knows the history of this market and we thank God that the dream is now a reality,” the governor said. “What we have come to commission today will be replicated in many places so that our traders won’t stay on the road selling their goods. If you go abroad, this is the standard, and we are replicating the same in our state.”
Makinde assured traders that allocations would be done transparently on a one-man, one-shop basis, while displaced traders would be given the right of first refusal. He also emphasised the need for proper market management and security.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Demola Ojo, praised the project as another demonstration of Makinde’s efforts to create a conducive environment for business, commerce and community development.
He listed the facilities in the market, including adequate water supply, sanitation systems, waste management structures, fire safety installations and parking spaces. Ojo added that the administration remains committed to its four-pillar Roadmap to Sustainable Development (Omituntun 2.0) covering the economy, education, healthcare and security.
The Asiwaju of Ido Local Government and Bashorun Bamofin of Ibadanland, Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN), said the ultramodern market would significantly improve the lives of residents. He highlighted various projects executed by the Makinde administration in Ido LG, such as the Ilaju Garri Processing Factory, rehabilitation of major roads including the 10.3km Ido–Omi Adio Road and the ongoing 48km Ido–Eruwa Road, as well as improvements to transportation infrastructure.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Ido Local Government, Hon. Sheriff Adeojo, described the project as a fulfillment of Makinde’s campaign promises and a reflection of the administration’s people-centered governance.
He urged traders to make proper use of the new facility, which sits on approximately 9,000 square metres of land donated by the Olomi Traditional Council. Adeojo added that the Makinde administration has positively touched all sectors, including security, health, water supply and urban renewal.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Rashidi Ladoja; other traditional rulers; commissioners; local government chairmen and several dignitaries.
