The Ekiti State Government has introduced a six-month rent-free initiative for itinerant and street traders, providing market stalls at key locations including Oja Oba, Agric-Olope, and Awedele.
This move, aimed at boosting commerce and reducing street trading, marks part of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s second-anniversary celebrations.
Announced by the Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Mrs. Omotayo Adeola, the initiative seeks to ease the financial burden on traders by replacing unaffordable 15-year lease agreements with more flexible annual rent plans. The first six months will be rent-free, though traders will still be responsible for utilities like electricity and sanitation to maintain market conditions.
Eligibility and Registration Process
Adeola encouraged interested traders to register at the Facility Management Office at Oja Oba market, providing documents such as their National Identification Number (NIN) and a passport photograph. However, traders currently occupying shops or using them as warehouses will not qualify for the rent-free scheme, with their shops being forfeited and reassigned to deserving traders.
To optimize space, petty traders will be allowed to share stalls. Once allocations are completed, the government will strictly enforce laws against street trading to protect traders from accidents and enhance road safety.
Tackling Rising Food Prices
In addition to the rent-free initiative, the Ekiti State Government is working to stabilize food prices by improving the supply chain and mopping up excess produce during harvest periods. This effort aims to ensure year-round affordability of essential food items.
Government’s Commitment to Development
Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, praised the government’s progress in multiple sectors under the state’s six-pillar roadmap and called on residents to support the initiatives while avoiding practices that could hinder environmental sustainability.