The Enugu State Government has officially commissioned the Amankpaka Ultra Modern Market in Enugu East Local Government Area, marking a significant milestone in its quest to stimulate economic growth and boost commerce across the state.
The event, held on Saturday, June 28, 2025, attracted traders, buyers, and dignitaries from far and wide.
Representing the state government, Engr. Ogugua Emehelu, Special Assistant on Projects to the Executive Governor, lauded Engr. Pst. Beloved-Dan Obi Anike, Executive Chairman of Enugu East LGA, for his outstanding leadership in adopting and completing the project.
“This market is a vital economic initiative that aligns with our economic agenda to grow the state’s economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion,” Emehelu stated, commending Anike for successfully bringing the vision to reality.
In his address, Engr Anike described the market as a symbol of inclusive development and grassroots progress.
“This market is not merely a physical structure—it is a manifestation of vision, commitment, and inclusive development. It aligns seamlessly with our strategic objectives to build a prosperous local economy, foster people-centered progress, and position Enugu East as a catalyst in the movement toward the $30 billion economy envisioned by His Excellency, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.”
“This commissioning marks a bold stride toward realizing our budget strategy to grow the local economy through strategic partnerships, innovative infrastructure, and grassroots enterprise development. Today, we are not only opening the gates of trade but also lifting the gates of opportunity. This market will catalyze wealth creation, job generation, and social mobility particularly for our women, youth, and small-scale traders.”
Anike highlighted the community’s remarkable support, pointing out that:
“Of particular note is the bold community-driven gesture of releasing 100 shops rent-free for a six-month moratorium—a remarkable act of equity and empowerment that will leave a lasting legacy.”
He explained that beyond trade, the market would drive micro and medium-scale enterprises:
“In addition to retail and wholesale trade, this market will serve as a platform for micro and medium-scale enterprises in agro-processing and wood processing—two priority sectors for Enugu East’s economic future. It will host artisans, innovators, and agri-entrepreneurs, creating hubs of productivity and training that add value to local raw materials and enhance income across the value chain.”
Anike thanked the Amankpaka Nike community for their vision and investment, and acknowledged Hon. Nze Livinus Anike for initiating the project.
“Let me especially commend the Amankpaka community leadership. Your foresight, unity, and alignment with government vision have placed you in the annals of Enugu State’s most visionary and development-driven communities. You have resolved what scholars often refer to as the ‘clash between urbanization and indigenization’ by embracing innovation without losing identity, and by responding to change without resistance.”
“Finally, we pay glowing tribute to His Excellency, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for leading a disruptive governance agenda that is repositioning Enugu as a hub for education, healthcare innovation, infrastructure, technology, and private sector investment. His courage in vision, clarity in execution, and people-focused reforms continue to inspire us at all levels.”
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of Enugu East Garri, a high-quality product processed and sold at subsidized rates in the market.
“This initiative champions SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). It not only elevates the quality of local agro-products but also opens doors for market expansion, food security, and sustainable livelihoods for our rural and peri-urban farmers,” Anike said.
The well-attended ceremony featured notable dignitaries, including:
- Engr. Ogugua Emehelu, Special Assistant on Projects to the Executive Governor
- Hon. Engr. Kingsley Anike, Deputy Chairman of Enugu East LGA
- Hon. Raymond Ugwu, Member representing Enugu East Rural Constituency
- Hon. Osita Okoh, Member representing Enugu East Constituency
- Hon. Chinedu Mbah, SSA on Market Mobilization (represented at the event)
- Hon. Obumneme Eke, Leader of Enugu East Legislative Council
- Barr. Uche Mbaeke, Secretary to Enugu East LGA
- Hon. Obinna Ogbu, SPA Special Duties
- And other government officials.
