The Ebonyi Government says it has concluded arrangement for the relocation of the Abakpa Main Market, Abakaliki to its permanent site at the International Market.

Mr Peter Nwogbaga, the Special Assistant to Gov. Dave Umahi on Market Development, disclosed this at a meeting with traders at the market on Thursday in Abakaliki.

Nwogbaga said that government was committed to repositioning markets in the state to enhance their viability and boost commercial activities.

He said that traders who obtained and processed their forms would be allocated shops, adding that allocation would be on “first-come, first-served basis.’’

The governor’s aide, who briefed the traders on the outcome of the peace meeting held between government and the executive of the market association, urged them to sustain the prevailing peace in the market.

He advised the traders to form cooperative associations in order to benefit from the state government’s loan facilities to boost their trade.

“We have concluded preparations for the relocation of the Abakpa Main Market in Abakaliki to its permanent site at the International Market, Ochoudo city.

“The move is part of efforts by government to reposition the market to enhance its commercial viability as well as provide more space and accommodation for traders.

“We are going to conduct the allocation on first come first serve basis.

“Let me also use the occasion to inform you that the governor is interested in your welfare in the market and will do everything within his statutory powers to ensure that you do your business in good and conducive environment.

“We urge you to form yourselves into cooperatives to benefit from the state government’s loans facilities to boost your trade,’’ Nwogbaga said.