ESMATA president hails end of Monday sit-at-home, market infrastructure, unified tax system as Governor announces cargo terminal, Idodo International Market, direct China imports plans
Traders across Enugu State have pledged support for Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s re-election, citing his administration’s infrastructure projects, market-friendly policies and efforts to improve the business environment.
The traders, under the umbrella of the Enugu State Market Amalgamated Traders Association (ESMATA), made the pledge on Friday during a meeting between the governor and chairmen and secretaries of more than 50 markets across the state.
Speaking on behalf of the association, its president, Chief Chinwuba Igwesi, said traders across the 17 local government areas were prepared to support Mbah’s second-term bid, citing improved commercial activities and the administration’s response to their concerns.
He commended the governor for restoring normal business activities on Mondays following disruptions caused by the illegal sit-at-home order, which had forced traders to close their shops and suffer substantial losses. He said the return of regular trading had improved business opportunities and helped traders recover lost income.
Igwesi also praised the administration for providing transformers to markets with inadequate electricity, asphalting internal market roads, installing solar-powered streetlights and constructing toilet facilities. He further acknowledged the provision of utility vehicles to market leadership, appointments of market leaders into government and pilgrimage opportunities approved for some traders during the year.
According to him, Mbah’s business background had given him a practical understanding of traders’ challenges, reflected in policies aimed at strengthening commercial activities and supporting local enterprises.
On taxation, Igwesi dismissed rumours of a general tax increase, explaining that the government had unified taxes into a single account. He said traders were willing to meet their tax obligations because they could see development projects and public infrastructure being delivered across the state.
He also credited the governor’s directive requiring contractors to purchase construction materials from local suppliers, where available, with boosting patronage and retaining more business transactions within Enugu.
The ESMATA president commended the administration’s healthcare investments, recounting a visit to the international hospital project that left him impressed by its scale. He said the development reflected the state’s growing ambitions.
Declaring the traders’ political support, Igwesi said Mbah’s performance had strengthened his position ahead of the next governorship election.
“When the time comes, your work will speak for you,” he said, adding: “No opposition in Enugu State.”
Responding, Mbah thanked the market leaders and pledged to intensify development efforts if re-elected.
He announced plans to establish a cargo terminal at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, to facilitate goods movement and connect local businesses to international markets. He also disclosed plans for direct cargo operations between Enugu and China, which he said would soon commence, allowing traders to import goods more directly and affordably.
The governor highlighted the ongoing construction of the International Market at Idodo, describing it as part of his administration’s strategy to expand commercial infrastructure and create opportunities for traders and investors.
He also identified the International Conference Centre (ICC), Enugu, as a key component of efforts to restore the state’s prominence as a centre of national activity. According to him, hosting major conferences and events would generate business for hotels, restaurants, transport operators, traders and
