The Executive Chairman of Oguta Local Government Area, Hon. Ifeanyi Nnani, has commissioned and handed over 48 newly constructed open stores at Oguta New Market, a project executed by the Oguta-Egbema Host Community Development Trust (HCDT).
The commissioning ceremony, held on Friday, August 14, 2026, attracted community leaders, councillors, local government officials, traditional stakeholders and representatives of the Host Community Development Trust.
The Host Community Development Trust is established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to promote sustainable social and economic development in communities hosting oil and gas operations.
Speaking during the commissioning, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Oguta-Egbema HCDT, Barr. Ogochukwu, said the construction of the 48 open stores was among the development projects selected by the Oguta host community to stimulate commercial activities and promote the exchange of goods and services within the area.
He disclosed that the project was executed by an indigenous contractor, describing it as part of the Trust’s commitment to delivering tangible development projects that directly impact the lives and economic activities of members of the host community.
Barr. Ogochukwu further revealed that another major project being undertaken by the Trust is the construction of the Eneke Road in Oguta Community, which is currently ongoing.
Other members of the Board of Trustees present at the commissioning included Mrs. Francisca Okorafor and Mrs. Nzeribe Scholastica.
In his remarks, the Oguta Council Chairman, Hon. Ifeanyi Nnani, commended the Board and Management of the Oguta-Egbema HCDT for completing the market project in good time.
Hon. Nnani, who formally commissioned and handed over the stores, said the additional market facilities would create more opportunities for residents to engage in legitimate commercial activities, while also expanding the revenue base of the community.
According to him, the availability of more shops and trading spaces would encourage more indigenes to participate in buying and selling, thereby creating opportunities for economic empowerment and improved livelihoods.
The council boss consequently directed the Officer-in-Charge of Revenue, Mr. Cyprian, to take full responsibility for the newly constructed stores and commence their immediate allocation to eligible indigenes of Oguta Community.
He urged the beneficiaries to make productive use of the facilities and ensure that the market environment remained orderly, clean and conducive for business.
The commissioning was witnessed by several dignitaries, including Hon. Kenneth Mazi, Secretary of Oguta Local Government Area; Hon. Ignatius Okechukwu Ekine, Councillor representing Oguta Ward A; Hon. Emma Udom, Councillor representing Oguta Ward B; Mrs. Scholastica, Head of Personnel, Oguta LGA; Engr. Johnbosco Nwokeji, Head of Works; Mr. Cyprian, Officer-in-Charge of Revenue; Mr. Okoroafor Cletus, representative of the oldest man in Oguta Community; Sir Faith Okwusha, President-General of Oguta Community; and Mr. Osita Okorie, Youth President of Oguta Community.
The project is expected to boost commercial activities at Oguta New Market and provide additional trading opportunities for residents, while reinforcing the role of the Oguta-Egbema HCDT in delivering community-focused development projects.
