Enugu North Local Government Area has officially launched a digital portal for the allocation and management of market stalls and plazas, marking a significant stride toward transparency, efficiency, and modernization in market administration.
The innovation, introduced by the administration of the Council Chairman, Dr. Ibenaku Harford Onoh, aims to tackle long-standing issues of double allocations, fraudulent practices, and ownership disputes associated with the traditional paper-based allocation system.
Speaking with journalists after a strategic engagement with stall owners at Ogbete Main Market, Dr. Onoh emphasized the council’s commitment to building a system rooted in transparency and accountability.
“This exercise lays the foundation for a comprehensive database of market occupants within the council,” Dr. Onoh stated. “Each shop or stall will now be tied to a verified individual identity, with data and photographs linked to specific stalls. This is key to ensuring transparency and protecting the rights of both current and future stall owners.”
The Chairman disclosed that over 100 cases of double or even triple allocations have been identified across markets in the LGA since he assumed office—an alarming trend the digital system is designed to permanently resolve.
“Our decision to start with Ogbete Main Market, one of the most important economic hubs in both the LGA and the entire state, is strategic. The turnout and level of cooperation from traders show their willingness to embrace a more organized and digitalized system of market management,” he said.
He further explained that the portal will provide long-term benefits for both traders and government officials, including secure and verifiable records of stall allocations, ownership history, and future transfers.
“The benefits of this process are not just immediate—they are long-term. Both the traders and the government now have access to clear, secure, and verifiable records of stall allocations, ownership histories, and transfers. It enhances planning, eliminates fraud, and promotes accountability,” Dr. Onoh added.
During the launch, Mr. Edwin Agu, a senior stakeholder and patron of Ogbete Market, gave a vote of thanks on behalf of traders, commending the council chairman for introducing digital innovation in market governance.
Also speaking, Acting Market Leader Emeka Agina praised the local government for months of consistent sensitization and inclusivity throughout the implementation process. He pledged continued cooperation and support from the traders.
The digital portal is expected to be extended to other markets within Enugu North LGA in the coming months as part of broader reforms aimed at improving service delivery and fostering investor confidence in the council’s market system.
