TDThe bustling commercial city of Onitsha came alive over the weekend as traders under the umbrella of the Anambra State Market Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA) gathered at the Chuba Ikpeazu Stadium to mark the 2026 edition of Traders’ Day.
The event was graced by dignitaries including Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo.
Soludo was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Engineer Michael Obiekwe at the occasion.
Other dignitaries present include the CEO of Pineleaf Property Limited, Archbishop Dr. Onyeka Nzekwesi, among others.
Celebration of Governance and Unity
The occasion provided traders with an opportunity to reflect on the progress made under Governor Soludo’s administration.
Amid pomp and pageantry, ASMATA President General, Chief Humphrey Anuna, declared that traders are enjoying unprecedented dividends of democracy and good governance.
Governor Soludo, through his representative, commended the hardworking traders and market women for sustaining peace and unity in the trading environment.
He highlighted his administration’s achievements, including:
- Remodeling of Onitsha Main Market.
- Reforming market leadership structures.
- Redesignating major markets as socio-economic and security hubs.
- Improving security and road networks.
- Tackling flooding and congestion.
- Ending the sit-at-home disruptions that had crippled economic activity.
He urged traders to remain supportive of government initiatives and vigilant in maintaining security consciousness.
ASMATA’s Testimony
Chief Anuna explained that Traders’ Day was designed to foster interaction, fun, and recognition among traders, partners, and well-wishers.
Activities included match pasts, football games, track and field events, and award presentations.
He praised Governor Soludo’s development strides, noting that traders now enjoy:
- Enhanced security with CCTV surveillance across markets.
- Improved road networks linking trading centers.
- Better sanitation and healthcare services.
- Quality education for their children.
- Free-flowing traffic and restored peace in markets.
“Soludo is nourishing Anambra, and traders are the greatest beneficiaries.
“He gave us security, roads, and peace — the essentials for any business to thrive,” Anuna stated.
Recognition for Pineleaf CEO
A highlight of the event was the presentation of an Award of Honor to Archbishop Dr. Onyeka Nzekwesi, CEO of Pineleaf Property Limited, for his consistent sponsorship of traders’ sporting activities.
In his acceptance speech, Archbishop Nzekwesi expressed his passion for sports and pledged continued investment in youth development through sporting initiatives.
He lauded Chief Anuna’s leadership and commended Governor Soludo for restoring peace across Anambra’s markets.
Festivities and Highlights
The day concluded with the presentation of cash prizes to winners of the match past, football, and track and field competitions, leaving traders and guests in high spirits.
The 2026 Traders’ Day celebrated the resilience of Anambra’s trading community.
It also underscored the synergy between government, business leaders, and market associations in driving socio-economic progress across the state.
By Toby Chuks
