There was a wave of excitement and gratitude among traders at the Igbudu Market in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State, as the long-overdue rehabilitation of key access roads within the market — Old UCC Road and Mosque Road — commenced under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
The market, one of the busiest and most commercially vibrant in Warri and across Delta State, had for years suffered neglect in the area of infrastructure, with traders and buyers struggling to navigate the flood-prone and dilapidated roads, especially during the rainy season.
However, with the current rehabilitation work initiated by the Oborevwori-led administration, the traders say they can finally breathe a sigh of relief. Many described the intervention as a testament to the governor’s commitment to grassroots development and his willingness to respond to the needs of ordinary citizens.
Speaking with newsmen during a visit to the market on Tuesday 27th of June 2025, Mrs. Elohor Obedeke, a long-standing trader, could not hide her joy. According to her, the rehabilitation of Old UCC and Mosque Roads is one of the most impactful developments the market has witnessed in recent times.
“For years, we cried out for help — the roads were in a terrible state. They were always flooded and muddy, making it difficult for customers to come in, and even worse for those of us transporting goods daily. It affected our business badly,” she said.
“With what the governor has done, we are beginning to see the difference already. It is not just a physical development; it is a huge boost to our morale and confidence as traders. We now believe that the government is truly listening,” she added.
Mrs. Obedeke further appealed to the state government to consider complementary infrastructure within the market to make the environment more conducive. She emphasized the need for streetlights to improve safety at night, the construction of public toilets to enhance sanitation, and the provision of functional boreholes to ensure access to clean water.
Her views were shared by another trader, Ms. Loveth Oribabo, who described the rehabilitation work as timely and commendable. She noted that functional road networks within the market are essential for commercial progress and ease of doing business.
“Customers are now coming in more freely without fear of stepping into stagnant water or mud. Goods are being transported with ease. These may sound like little things, but they mean a lot to small-scale traders like us,” Oribabo explained.
She went on to advocate for the introduction of more empowerment schemes by the state government to assist petty traders and market women in expanding their businesses. “If the state can do more soft loans, skills acquisition, and access to funding, it would go a long way,” she added.
Another voice of support came from Mr. Adamu, a well-known meat seller in the market, who praised Governor Oborevwori for achieving what he described as a “milestone that previous administrations failed to deliver.”
“No government before him paid attention to our plight. They all promised, but nothing ever came of it. But look around now — the work is going on. The dust is settling. The governor has made a mark. For that, we say thank you,” Mr. Adamu stated.
He also expressed optimism that the governor’s achievements so far will earn him even greater support from market communities and grassroots voters ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The way this administration is going, we will gladly support his return. He is working, and we are seeing it with our eyes,” he added.
Other traders who spoke to reporters echoed the same sentiment, pointing out that the road rehabilitation has not only eased movement but also restored the image of the market which had long been tarnished by poor infrastructure and neglect.
