By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
Asaba witnessed a historic milestone on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, as the Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, officially commissioned the ultra-modern Ogbeogonogo Shopping Complex, a state-of-the-art facility that has transformed the city’s commercial hub.
The new complex, built through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between Oshimili South Local Government Council and Dada Global Resources Nigeria Limited, is designed to provide traders and buyers with a safe, modern, and conducive environment after years of challenges caused by repeated fire outbreaks that destroyed the old market.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Area, Hon. (High Chief) Obi Kelvin Ezenyili (Ph.D.), described the project as a fulfillment of his administration’s promise to modernize infrastructure in line with the MORE Agenda of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori.
“The old Ogbeogonogo market was gutted by fire twice, leaving traders stranded and forcing many into open trading. This modern complex is not just about shops, it is about restoring dignity, safety, and order to our people,” Ezenyili said. He praised Ogbueshi Dada Okonji, CEO of Dada Global Resources, for delivering the project within record time and commended the people of Asaba for their trust and support.
In his royal remarks, the Asagba of Asaba hailed the initiative as a shining example of what collaboration can achieve when public office holders and private citizens work together. He urged leaders to prioritize the welfare of the masses and leave behind projects that speak to posterity.
“This project proves that when our sons and daughters are empowered, they can drive meaningful change. I encourage the Council and the contractors to allocate shops fairly to Asaba residents, and to ensure the complex is insured and equipped with fire prevention systems to avoid past tragedies,” the monarch advised.
The commissioning ceremony was graced by palace chiefs, council legislators, community leaders, and residents, all of whom lauded the project as a turning point in Asaba’s development story.
With its modern facilities and enhanced safety measures, the Ogbeogonogo Shopping Complex is set to boost the local economy, provide hundreds of traders with befitting shops, and reaffirm Asaba’s status as one of Delta State’s fastest-growing urban centers.