Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has called on traders across the state to fully resume trading on Mondays, declaring that the sit-at-home order has been completely defeated.

The governor urged traders in all markets, including the Onitsha Main Market— which was shut two weeks ago and reopened last week — to open their shops and conduct business without fear.

In a press statement issued on his behalf by his Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, Soludo encouraged traders to return to their businesses and contribute to the state’s economic revival.

Aburime noted that last Monday marked a significant turning point for commercial activities in Anambra, particularly in Onitsha Main Market.

“For the first time in over five years, the heartbeat of commerce in Onitsha Main Market returned powerfully on a Monday,” the statement read.

“The streets were alive, shops were open, traders and customers went about their normal activities, and the atmosphere reflected hope rather than fear — signalling the beginning of a new chapter.”

The governor extended the call to all markets across the state, including Nkwo Nnewi, Eke Awka, Ose, Ogbogwu, and others, urging traders to open their shops and allow economic activities to flourish.

He also appealed to customers to go about their daily activities with confidence, describing their participation as essential to sustaining the state’s economic recovery.

“The collective courage shown last week must become a permanent habit,” the statement said. “The time for hesitation is over. The season of recovery, growth, progress and prosperity has begun. There must be no return to fear-driven inactivity.”

Governor Soludo assured residents that adequate security measures have been put in place to protect traders and shoppers, even if security operatives are not immediately visible.

“The security architecture guarding our markets is strong, vigilant and unwavering,” he said. “The state police, joint task force and Agunechemba vigilantes operating under the Udo Ga Chi mandate have been strategically deployed as a permanent protective shield around our markets.”

According to the governor, the peaceful and bustling activities recorded last Monday serve as clear evidence that the security situation has significantly improved.

“Every Monday of open markets represents reclaimed revenue, restored livelihoods and renewed hope,” the statement added. “It is an investment in our schools, roads and future. The prosperity of Ndi Anambra is directly tied to the vitality of our markets and businesses.”