The Ekiti State Government has commenced the allocation of six-month rent-free stalls to itinerant and street traders in a strategic move aimed at boosting commerce and curbing street trading.
The initiative, which offers shops at Oja Oba main market, Agric-Olope, and Awedele markets, is part of a broader effort to commemorate the second anniversary of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration.
This was according to a statement posted on the state government website on Friday, dated 17 October, titled, “Ekiti Government Commences Allocation of Six-Month Rent-Free Market Stalls to Traders.”
The State Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Mrs Omotayo Adeola, announced this during a bilingual audience participatory simulcast that reached audiences in both Ekiti and parts of Ondo State.
She stressed that this gesture was designed to eliminate the financial burden street traders often face.
“The government is offering shop allocations on an annual rent collection basis with an initial six-month rent-free period,” she explained.
The new terms, she noted, replace the previously unaffordable 15-year lease agreements, making market stalls accessible to more traders.
Adeola pointed out that, though traders would not be charged rent for the first six months, they would still be responsible for utility bills, including electricity and sanitation.
This would ensure that the markets are clean, hygienic, and properly maintained.
“Interested traders are encouraged to register at the Facility Management Office of Oja Oba main market,” she added.
The application process is straightforward and requires traders to submit their name, nature of trade, passport photograph, and National Identification Number.
However, the Commissioner warned that those already occupying shops or using them as warehouses are not eligible for this rent-free scheme. Such shops would be forfeited and reassigned to deserving traders.
The government also encourages partnerships, allowing more than one petty trader to collaborate and share a shop.
According to the statement, this approach aims to maximise the use of available space while accommodating small businesses that may not require large stalls.
Adeola further warned that the government would begin strict enforcement of laws prohibiting street trading once the allocation process is complete.
“The law against street trading will be enforced,” she asserted. “We want to protect street traders from accidents and ensure the safety of all road users.”
The government, she added, has invested significantly in market infrastructure and is committed to ensuring that these facilities are fully utilised for their intended purpose.
In addition to tackling street trading, the government is addressing the high cost of food items in the state.
The commissioner revealed plans to mop up excess food during harvest periods to stabilise the supply chain and ensure affordable food prices year-round.
“Government will henceforth be involved in all agricultural chain activities, from supplying farm inputs to moving products from farms to consumers,” she said, highlighting the administration’s comprehensive approach to supporting both farmers and consumers.
The Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, also spoke, commending the government’s progress under the six-pillar roadmap.
“In just two years, we’ve seen significant strides in agriculture, infrastructure development, healthcare, education, and support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs),” he said.
He called on residents to continue supporting government efforts to further develop Ekiti State, stressing that a collective effort is needed to keep the state moving forward.
Olatunbosun also urged residents to avoid harmful practices such as indiscriminate waste disposal, which could lead to flooding and undermine the government’s environmental sustainability efforts.
“We must all play our part in maintaining the progress we’ve achieved so far,” he said, reinforcing the importance of community responsibility.
This initiative is not only a step towards making life easier for traders but also a demonstration of Ekiti State’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and improving the overall quality of life for its residents.
