It was a moment of joy and celebration for traders in the Mile 12 International Market on Thursday, November 6, 2025, as the Mayoress of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, Hon. Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada, officially commissioned a newly completed phase II of the ultra-modern complex designed to boost local commerce and improve trading conditions for residents and business owners.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held in the bustling Mile 12 area, attracted dignitaries, traditional rulers, community leaders, market executives, and members of the public who gathered to witness the official handover of the state-of-the-art facility.
The Mayoress, dressed elegantly in a vibrant green and pink traditional attire, expressed delight over the successful completion of the project, noting that it underscores her administration’s commitment to grassroots development and economic empowerment.
According to her, the new market is part of a broader initiative aimed at upgrading public infrastructure across the LCDA to ensure that residents and traders conduct their daily business in a safe, clean, and conducive environment.
“Today is one of those moments that define why we serve – when a vision leaves paper and becomes reality in the lives of our people. This is Renewed Hope in motion,” she said.
She emphasised that the commissioning of the new market is not just an infrastructural feat but “a story of promise, persistence, and purpose.”
Linking the project to the national and state development agenda, the council boss acknowledged the leadership direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda inspired local leaders to make life better at the grassroots, and Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, whose T.H.E.M.E.S Plus vision guided the alignment of governance with growth and dignity.
“Today, traders can work in a clean, structured, and secure environment. Goods can move freely, traffic has improved, and businesses are thriving again,” Bada declared.
Speaking passionately about her connection to the project, the Mayoress described the commissioning as a personal and emotional victory, referring to herself as “Omo Iya Olaja” – a proud daughter of the market community.
“I grew up seeing the sweat, the prayers, and the hope of women who sold under the sun and rain just to keep their children in school. That is why this project is not just an achievement – it is my tribute to every market woman and man who believes that hard work should be rewarded with opportunity,” she said.
Also peaking at the event, the President of the Perishable Food market, Alhaji Shehu Usman Sampa, commended the Mayoress for her foresight and dedication to boosting the business structure of Mile 12 traders. “This market will not only enhance business activities but also promote cleanliness and orderliness”. He said.
The New Mile 12 International Market (Phase II) is expected to empower thousands of traders, enhance security, boost property values, improve access roads, and attract new investments to Ikosi-Isheri LCDA.
According to Bada, the project will further drive economic growth and stability across the area – a demonstration of how strong leadership can build a sustainable local economy, “one project, one community, one people at a time.”
Expressing gratitude to the state and federal leadership, the Mayoress thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for his guidance and President Tinubu for his inspiring leadership.
“To our Governor, thank you for your guidance and trust. To our President, we are proud to say that Ikosi-Isheri is your model of hope made real. And to our traders – this market is your legacy. You asked, and we delivered – swiftly, boldly, and beautifully,” she concluded.
The commissioning of the ultra-modern complex marks another significant achievement in the Day 4 activities of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA’s Project Commissioning Week, reaffirming the administration’s determination to deliver impactful governance at the grassroots level.
The complex boasts improved facilities such as lock-up shops, proper drainage systems, waste disposal units, and enhanced security arrangements, all tailored to meet the growing commercial needs of the area.
Meanwhile, as the ceremony came to a close, traders and residents expressed gratitude to the council administration, describing the new market as a welcome development that will transform the economic landscape of Mile 12 and its environs.
