Abia Govt Begins Trader Relocation Ahead of Ariaria Market B-Line Remodelling

The Abia State Government has commenced arrangements to relocate traders operating in the B-Line section of the Ariaria International Market, Aba, in preparation for the massive remodelling of the area.

Speaking after an inspection tour on Monday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade, Commerce and Industry, Chief Nwaka Inem, assured that no trader would be exposed to poor or unsafe conditions during the temporary relocation.

The inspection, which involved members of a tripartite committee comprising the State Government, the developer (Check-Best International Ltd), and representatives of the traders, was aimed at assessing the readiness of the temporary relocation site within the Aba Free Trade Zone.

Chief Inem described the current state of the B-Line as hazardous, stressing that swift action was necessary to prevent a looming disaster.

“The B-Line is almost an accident waiting to happen,” he said. “By God’s grace, His Excellency wants us to act fast and avoid that. The remodelling must proceed without exposing anyone to risk.”

He further noted that the developer had already acquired alternative spaces within the market environment and was working to make them fit for trading.

“We came to ensure that the place is truly conducive before traders are moved,” he said.

Chief Inem reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming Ariaria into a world-class commercial hub, while ensuring that no trader is left behind or made to operate in “subhuman conditions” during the reconstruction period.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Check-Best International Ltd., Mr. Chiedozie Njoku, disclosed that preliminary works on the B-Line had begun, with a focus on preparing the temporary site.

“In about four weeks, the relocation zone will be ready. We want business to continue while we build,” he said.

Mr. Njoku revealed that the entire project will be implemented in three phases, with Phase One designed to span 24 months, subdivided into three zones to allow for gradual relocation.

He also acknowledged that initial misinformation created fears among traders but noted that recent engagements with stakeholders had helped clarify the government’s intentions.

The Chairman of Ariaria Market, Chief Michael Aniorji, expressed gratitude to Governor Alex Otti for prioritizing the safety and welfare of traders. He said the traders had long awaited the remodelling and were optimistic about the transformation ahead.

The Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Chief Kingsley Nwokocha, was also part of the inspection team.