There was fulfillment, joy and excitement in Aleshinloye Market, Ibadan, as the Executive Chairman of Ibadan South West Local Government, Hon. Kehinde Akande, handed over 88 newly built shops to plastic sellers whose shops were destroyed by fire.
The handover ceremony, which was filled with songs, prayers and dancing, brought together market leaders, traders, party chieftains, and residents who came to witness the fulfilment of a promise made to the affected traders.
It will be recalled that Governor Makinde visited the market in October, where he promised the traders whose shops were burnt that the government would rebuild and hand over new shops to them.
The plastic sellers had lost their shops and goods worth millions of naira when fire gutted a section of Aleshinloye Market, leaving many of them in distress and without a means of livelihood.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Kehinde Akande said the rebuilding and handover of the 88 shops was a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to the welfare of traders and the economic growth of Ibadan South West.
He said he understood the pain of the affected traders and assured them that his government would continue to stand by them and ensure that Aleshinloye Market remains a safe and thriving business hub.
“Today is a day of joy. When the fire incident happened, we promised we would not abandon our people. These 88 shops are a fulfilment of that promise. We want our traders to return to business and grow again,” Hon. Akande said.
He urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the shops, maintain cleanliness, and adhere strictly to fire safety measures to prevent a recurrence.
The beneficiaries, who could not hide their joy, thanked Governor Seyi Makinde amd Hon. Kehinde Akande for coming to their rescue at a time they had lost hope. They also shout praises on Hon. Saheed Fijabi who told by them at all time.
Head of the plastic sellers, Mrs Taiwo who spoke on behalf of the plastic sellers, said the gesture had restored their livelihoods and brought back smiles to their families.
“We thought all hope was lost after the fire. But our Governor stood by us. Today, we have our shops back. We are grateful and we pray God continues to bless him,” she said.
Market leaders also commended the Chairman for his swift response and for keeping to his promise, describing him as a leader who matches words with action.
The event ended with prayers, jubilation, and celebration as the beneficiaries took possession of their new shops.
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