By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, Abuja

The National Association of Nigerian Traders (NANTs) Abuja chapter has expressed its profound appreciation for the outstanding performance of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike.

Led by the chapter’s Chairman, Ifeanyi Okonkwo, the traders’ body commended the Minister for his remarkable achievements in infrastructural development across the FCT.

In their June 12 Democracy Day Celebration, the Chairman addressed journalists recently in his office in the nation’s capital on Thursday.

Okonkwo specifically praised Minister Wike for his impressive work in developing roads, streets, schools, and other critical infrastructure in the FCT. The traders’ leader also lauded the Minister for providing access roads to markets, which has significantly improved the business environment for traders.

While expressing the traders’ unwavering support for the Minister, Okonkwo appealed to him to utilize his office to expand existing markets or construct new ones. This request, he explained, is driven by the need to accommodate thousands of apprentices who complete their training every year and require their own shops.

While highlighting that the traders’ association annually trains a large number of apprentices who eventually need their own business spaces, Okonkwo however regrets that the existing market stalls often cannot accommodate these new entrepreneurs, making it essential to expand or build new markets.

“The FCT Minister’s achievements have not gone unnoticed, with traders and residents alike acknowledging his commitment to developing the FCT’s infrastructure. His efforts to improve roads, schools, and market facilities have significantly enhanced the quality of life for Abuja residents and created a more conducive business environment,” he stated.

The NANTs chairman reiterated their commitment to supporting Minister Wike’s initiatives, particularly in areas that promote trade and commerce. The association believes that the Minister’s leadership will continue to drive growth and development in the FCT.

Dr (Mrs) Rachael Adewumi, the woman leader of the Association, hailed the government at the centre and the FCT for performance, even as she called for empowerment of the traders to enable them to continue to contribute to the economy.

She said that the traders contribute in no small in the area of employment generation, adding that if given more encouragement, they will contribute more. Adewumi however spoke at length on the need to support the government in power, bit at the federal and FCT or state levels.

As the FCT Minister continues to drive development in the nation’s capital, the traders’ body urges him to consider their request for expanded market spaces. By doing so, the Minister will not only be supporting the traders but also contributing to the growth and prosperity of the FCT’s business community.