One week after the launch of the Christmas discount market in Port Harcourt, both shoppers and vendors are praising the initiative. The initiative was last held 10 years ago under the administration of former governor Rotimi Amaechi. The market is set to run for ten days, starting on the 18th of December and ending on the 28th of December.
Some vendors who spoke to our reporter said that the discount market has provided significant relief to Rivers citizens due to the reduction in commodity prices, stating that it has brought smiles to the faces of Rivers people. They further explained that participation in the discount market is free, noting that they did not pay for any stands. They, however, appreciated the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalaye Fubara, for the good gesture.
The consultant to the Rivers State Government on the program, Reginald Uranta, highlighted the value the discount market has brought. He explained that, according to statistics, vendors have sold commodities worth over thirty million naira so far.
“So far, it has been going smoothly, and we have been getting lots of patronage. In our statistics, we discovered that vendors have sold over 30 million naira within this period. Even on Sunday, people still troop in.”
In the meantime, the Rivers State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, John Otamiri, has commended Governor Fubara for providing a timely opportunity for Rivers State residents to buy commodities at discounted prices. He also said adequate security measures have been implemented by the government at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Elekahia, where the Christmas discount market is held.
“We are grateful to the Rivers State Governor, His Excellency Sir Siminalaye Fubara, who has made it possible for Rivers residents to have peace of mind, in the sense that when you go out with the little resources you have, you will be able to get things that are too expensive outside the discount market. So, we are thankful to the Governor for this great opportunity given to us.”
Our reporter, who visited the market, reports that there is a stage with comedians and musicians performing live. There is also a playground for children, medical services, and other facilities.
