Lokoja, Kogi State – In a bold move to transform Kogi State’s commercial landscape, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has launched the construction of a state-of-the-art ultra-modern market at Hassan Katsina Road, Crusher Junction, Lokoja — a project set to redefine local and international trade in the region.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on December 9, 2024, marked the beginning of what is projected to be a 36-month construction timeline. Once completed, the massive market complex will house over 5,000 lock-up shops, 3,000–5,000 parking spaces, and more than 20 access roads paved with rigid concrete for durability and smooth mobility.
According to Engineer Benjamin Adebola Omojola, the project supervisor, the development is designed to meet world-class standards, positioning Lokoja as a new commercial hub in Nigeria and West Africa.
Ambitious Vision, Global Standards
Governor Ododo’s vision for the market transcends the conventional. Beyond basic trading stalls, the facility will include a robust financial complex to accommodate eight commercial banks — each outfitted with private vaults and dedicated power systems. The integration of banking infrastructure is expected to enhance ease of business and provide reliable financial services within the market premises.
Also planned is a 50-bed emergency clinic for on-site medical care, underscoring the administration’s commitment to trader and shopper welfare.
Safety, Innovation, and Inclusivity
To ensure safety in large crowds, the new market will feature an emergency fire station with standby firefighting trucks, five watchtowers, and a central suspended security tower equipped with advanced surveillance and security technology.
Inclusivity is another key theme of the design. Space will be reserved for petty traders and open-air sellers, while warehouses measuring 82.5m x 30m will provide storage for bulk goods and agricultural produce.
A dedicated technology hub will support startups and electronics-based businesses, while a hypermarket zone will centralize supermarkets and supermalls under one roof — a first-of-its-kind for Lokoja.
An administrative complex and a maintenance building are also included to ensure smooth day-to-day operations and sustained infrastructure upkeep.
Decongesting Lokoja, Attracting Investors
The market’s scale and strategic location are expected to relieve Lokoja of the frequent traffic congestion caused by the current modern market at Nataco, a site known for trailer-related gridlocks and safety concerns.
The new market aims to consolidate fragmented trading spaces in the state capital, creating a single economic ecosystem that is secure, organized, and investor-friendly.
“This project is not just an economic boost — it is a redefinition of how Kogi State does business,” said Governor Ododo during the groundbreaking. “It will serve as a beacon for local and international trade, while generating revenue and providing sustainable livelihoods for our people.”
With his growing track record of transformative projects, Governor Ododo continues to chart a progressive course for Kogi State, drawing attention from investors eager to tap into the region’s emerging commercial potential.
