CALABAR, NIGERIA – The Calabar Municipal Council has commenced the long-awaited remodeling of the Ikot Ishie Market, in a move aimed at boosting economic activity and fulfilling campaign promises to improve public infrastructure.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Chairman of the Calabar Municipal Council, Apostle James Anam, said the project was a necessary step toward modernizing the market and aligning it with current economic realities.
“This is not just about infrastructure,” Anam stated, “it’s about transforming the lives of our people and supporting the vision of Governor Bassey Edet Otu for sustainable development across Cross River State.”
The Chairman disclosed that the project had received formal consent from the Ishie Clan Council and followed comprehensive consultations with stakeholders to ensure broad-based community support. “We want a market that reflects the pride of our people and promotes commerce,” he added.
State Assembly member for Calabar Municipality, Hon. Stanley Nsemo, applauded Anam’s leadership and described the groundbreaking as “the beginning of a season of sweetness for Calabar Municipality.”
Also present at the event was the Acting Clan Head of Ikot Ishie, Chief Eta Eyo Uso, who commended the Council for honoring its campaign pledge. “Our community stands behind this project and will cooperate fully to see it through to completion,” he assured.
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Prof. Esu O. Esu, Chairman of the Cross River State Universal Education Board, also praised the Municipal Council for recording visible developmental progress within just five months in office.
Council Secretary, Comrade Iso Bassey Edim, emphasized the economic potential of the remodeled market, noting it would significantly enhance local trade.
Vice Chairman, Pastor Okon Nyong, expressed gratitude to the Ishie Clan for its support and reiterated the Council’s commitment to people-centered policies.
In a related statement, the Secretary of the Ikot Ishie Market Women Forum, Mrs. Glory Anthony, welcomed the development and urged the authorities to ensure adequate security during construction.
The event concluded with a tour of the market and a group photograph, marking the official start of the remodeling project.
The news was issued and electronically signed by Oqua Etim, Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Calabar Municipal Council.