The long-abandoned Oba Market in Benin City, gutted by fire nearly a decade ago, is finally on the path to revival as Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has set June 2026 as the completion date for its reconstruction and remodeling.
Governor Okpebholo, who inspected the ongoing works on Tuesday, reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises, noting that the project is being executed under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which provides states with resources to drive key developmental initiatives.
The Governor was warmly received by excited traders and market women who hailed the inspection as a sign of renewed hope after enduring years of neglect under the previous administration.
“This market has remained in ruins for the past ten years,” Okpebholo stated. “During my campaign, I promised the people that if elected, I would rebuild Oba Market. Today, that promise is being fulfilled. Leaders must keep their word.”
According to him, the remodeled market will resemble a modern shopping mall, featuring a crèche, sick bay, restaurants, and even a mini fire station to prevent future disasters. He stressed that the project was designed to benefit the original occupants of the market rather than displace them.
“The money being spent belongs to Edo people, and it is only right that it serves their welfare,” the Governor said, assuring that contractors would be held accountable for timely delivery and that his administration would push for completion ahead of schedule.
Project Manager for the reconstruction, Mr. Aneru Izuagbe, commended the Governor for his support and explained that the new design will transform the once-devastated market into a state-of-the-art commercial hub befitting Edo’s capital city.
The ground floor, he noted, will house 450 open stalls, while upper floors will feature three- and six-meter lock-up shops for various categories of traders, including electronics and fashion. Additional facilities such as a crèche, sick bay, and mini fire station will also be integrated.
“We are not just rebuilding Oba Market; we are remodeling it into a mall-like structure that ensures safety, convenience, and functionality for both traders and buyers,” Izuagbe said.
Construction, expected to span 251 days, has been scheduled for completion in June 2026, though efforts are underway to deliver ahead of time.
