…Traders hail Governor Mbah’s pro-poor development agenda
In a bold move to stimulate economic growth at the grassroots, the Chairman of Enugu North Local Government Area, Dr. Ibenaku Harford Onoh, has rolled out a multi-million-naira empowerment initiative targeted at petty traders and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the council’s 13 political wards.
The initiative, tagged “Tomorrow Is Here Traders Cash Support Programme,” officially took off on Tuesday at Ogbete Main Market. The programme aims to provide financial assistance to small-scale traders operating in major markets including Old Artisan Market, Aria Market (New Market), Coal Camp, Afia Nine, Eke-Ani, Amigbo Market and other trading hubs.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Onoh said the initiative was designed to strengthen the local economy by giving petty traders access to funds to boost their stock and expand their businesses. He noted that the programme aligns with the trader-friendly policies of Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Governor of Enugu State.
> “This is about supporting those who make our markets thrive every day,” Dr. Onoh said. “We are committed to improving the lives of our traders and ensuring that no one is left behind in the economic growth we’re driving at the grassroots level.”
In addition to the cash support, the council boss announced a ₦2 million donation to the Ogbete Market Women Association for the renovation and reconstruction of the market’s toilet facilities. He urged the women leaders to reinvest proceeds from the facilities into further empowering vulnerable female traders.
“We must continue to support one another,” he emphasized. “Our markets should not only be centres of commerce but also of dignity and progress.”
The Chairman of Ogbete Main Market Traders Association, Chief Emeka Aguata, lauded the initiative, describing it as a clear demonstration of the council’s commitment to improving the welfare of ordinary traders.
“This is a typical example of Governor Mbah’s inclusive development agenda at work,” Aguata said. “Dr. Onoh has brought focused leadership to Enugu North, and this programme will leave a lasting impact on beneficiaries and their families.”
A transparent raffle draw was conducted during the event, with 50 lucky traders receiving ₦50,000 each to support their businesses.
The ceremony attracted a high-profile audience including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Hon. Frank Anioma; the Senior Special Assistant on Youth Mobilization, Hon. Paul Ogbe; and the SSA on Mobilization, Hon. Abuchi Onoh, among others.
The empowerment scheme is expected to continue in other markets across the LGA, further deepening the administration’s economic inclusion drive and reinforcing the state’s vision of shared prosperity.
