Oyo State government said it has integrated former occupants into the redeveloped Bola Ige International Business Complex at New Gbagi in Ibadan, the state's capital.
Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Mr. Adeniyi Adebisi disclosed this while speaking with journalists in Ibadan, saying the project had been completed, and former occupants have been accommodated in the government's share of the project as promised.
He said the Oyo State Government had demonstrated its commitment to the welfare of traders by ensuring that they are not displaced during the redevelopment process.
According to him, “The Ministry enumerated the present occupants of the project site to accommodate qualified ones among them upon completion of the second phase.”
He added that the ministry had series of engagements with all stakeholders, including market elders, market executives, zonal leaders and the developers handling the second phase of the international market to benefit everyone and as well, be on the same page.
“However, it is essential to note that no single trader has come forward to complain about the project or the developer. This suggests that the majority of traders are satisfied with the government's initiatives and are eager to benefit from the redevelopment,” he said.
The Commissioner reiterated that the state government had a proven track record of supporting traders and business owners, which included the provision of infrastructure, access to finance, and training programmes.
He added that these efforts have contributed significantly to the growth and development of businesses in the state while traders are not left behind in the development process, urging those who are yet to benefit from the initiatives to come forward and engage with the ministry.
Adebisi underscored the state government's dedication to economic development and traders' empowerment through the redevelopment of the Bola Ige International Business Complex.
He stressed that these initiatives have been positively received by most traders, while also acknowledging and appreciating government's efforts.