The Chief Consultant of Lokoja International Market, Comrade Adams Babangida, has commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for measures that have improved security, traffic management and the organisation of commercial activities in the market.

Babangida made the commendation during the monthly environmental sanitation exercise at the market on Saturday, highlighting the impact of the state government’s support on market operations.

He described the exercise as part of the broader efforts by the state government to keep Kogi clean and promote environmental sanitation across the state.

Babangida said the introduction of numbered jackets for porters and point-of-sale operators has improved identification and accountability, making it easier to trace individuals in cases of reported theft and other disputes.

He added that security arrangements involving hunters, community security personnel and the police have helped curb criminal activities within the market.

The market consultant also noted that traffic congestion previously associated with the major road on market days has reduced significantly, with motorists now experiencing free flowing movement rather than the prolonged gridlock that once characterised the area.

He expressed appreciation to the state government for the opportunity to manage the market, pledging continued efforts to maintain order, improve security and support commercial activities.

On the sanitation exercise, Babangida urged traders to support the Kogi State Government’s Keep Kogi Clean initiative by participating actively in the monthly exercise.

He said traders are expected to suspend business activities for three hours, from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., on the last Saturday of every month to clean the market and its surroundings.

He called on traders to embrace the exercise as a collective responsibility towards maintaining a clean and healthy trading environment.