Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has pledged to allocate shops free of charge to traders at the rehabilitated Oba Market in Benin City once the project is completed. The governor made the announcement during an inspection of ongoing state projects on Tuesday, according to a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele. The free allocation will apply only for an initial period, after which traders will be required to pay, Okpebholo said. He described the decision as reflecting his administration's commitment to supporting traders who were affected by the rehabilitation and remodelling of the market.
The Oba Market was destroyed by a major fire in June 2020 and suffered another outbreak in October 2025. The market comprises two sections: one that had remained undeveloped for approximately 11 to 12 years, and another in better condition requiring remodelling. Under the plan, traders currently in the section being rehabilitated will move first into the newly completed section and return to their original locations once the second section is finished. Okpebholo said the first phase includes a crèche, clinic, water supply, fire service facilities and other amenities designed to improve conditions for traders and customers.
The market currently operates roughly 900 shops, comprising approximately 500 lock-up shops and 400 open stalls. The rehabilitation project, which began last year, aims to create a more conducive and functional environment for traders and residents who use the market. Beyond the Oba Market, Okpebholo also visited the New Edo Line, Oredo Girls Secondary School and Army Day Senior Secondary School during his inspection tour.
For traders in Benin City, this means temporary relief from shop rent as the market rebuilds, though payments will resume after an initial free period.