The Imo State Government has ordered the temporary closure of eight major markets in Owerri on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s visit.
This measure aims to enable residents to participate fully in welcoming the president.
Markets Shut Down to Facilitate Presidential Visit
The Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Investment, Rex Anunobi, issued a memo to market leaders confirming the decision. Traders in the affected markets were instructed to suspend their business activities for the day and join the public reception.
Tinubu’s South-East Visit Includes Several Key Project Commissions
President Tinubu’s visit to Imo State will feature the commissioning of multiple key infrastructure projects completed under Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration. These projects include:
- Rebuilt Owerri–Mbaise–Obowo–Umuahia Road
- New flyover connecting Port Harcourt and Onitsha Roads
- Upgrades at Assumpta Cathedral Roundabout, Owerri
- Rebuilt Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre
Tinubu will also unveil Uzodimma’s book titled “A Decade of Impactful Progressive Governance in Nigeria.”
Markets Closed During One-Day Working Visit
The markets affected by the closure are:
- Imo Relief Main Market
- Green Roof and Plaza
- Imo Auto Market, Naze
- Imo International Market, Alaba
- Imo International Market, Egbeada
- Imo International Cluster Market, Naze
- Imo Timber and Allied Market, Naze
- Imo Mechanic Village Market, Avu
This shutdown is only for the duration of the president’s visit and business operations in these markets are expected to resume immediately afterward.
