By Taiye Bayode
The Kogi State Ministry of Commerce and Industry has stepped up monitoring of the Lokoja Ultra-Modern Market project, with the Permanent Secretary, Hajiya Musa-Amana Sualihat, leading a high-level inspection of the facility to assess ongoing construction and finishing works.
The inspection, which involved officials of relevant ministries and other stakeholders, focused on critical components of the project, including drainage, tiling, finishing works and warehouse facilities.
The market, located along the Zone 8–Crusher Road axis of Lokoja, is being developed as a modern commercial centre designed to provide a more organised environment for traders, businesses and consumers.
During the inspection, the team examined various sections of the project and reviewed the quality and progress of ongoing works, with discussions centred on areas requiring attention before the facility is completed.
Particular attention was given to the drainage system, with the officials assessing the adequacy of the provisions to ensure effective water management and prevent challenges that could undermine the durability and usability of the market.
The team also inspected tiling and other finishing works, stressing the need for appropriate materials and proper execution in line with the required standards.
The warehouse facilities within the complex were equally inspected, with stakeholders examining the arrangements being made to ensure that the spaces would adequately serve the needs of businesses and traders expected to operate from the facility.
Representing the State Ministry of Works, the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Abdulsalam M. Sagir, participated in the technical inspection, while the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Abanika Taiye, represented his ministry.
The involvement of the ministries, according to the inspection team, underscored the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration in ensuring that the project delivers the required infrastructure and achieves its intended commercial objectives.
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry considers the project important not only because of the structures being developed, but also because of its potential impact on commercial activities and the wider economy of the state.
When completed, the market is expected to provide a more organised trading environment, accommodate businesses and traders, and contribute to the consolidation of commercial activities in Lokoja.
Its location along the Zone 8–Crusher Road corridor is also expected to enhance its commercial prospects by providing access to traders and businesses within and outside Kogi State.
The project is in line with the administration’s broader emphasis on infrastructure development and the creation of an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
The inspection further provided an opportunity for government officials and the project team to identify outstanding areas requiring attention and ensure that necessary corrective measures are taken as work progresses.
The Permanent Secretary’s inspection underscores the Ministry’s interest in ensuring that the facility moves beyond physical construction to become a functional commercial hub capable of supporting trade, creating opportunities and strengthening economic activities in Kogi State.
As work continues, stakeholders are expected to sustain monitoring of the project to ensure quality delivery, completion of outstanding components and provision of facilities required for the efficient operation of the market.
Upon completion, the Lokoja Ultra-Modern Market is expected to serve as a major platform for organised commerce and further strengthen Lokoja’s position as a key commercial centre in Kogi State.
