The Imo State Government has ordered the closure of eight major markets in Owerri ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s visit to the state on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.
In a memo addressed to market leaders, the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Investment, Rex Anunobi, confirmed that the shutdown was to allow residents to welcome the president.
Tinubu is visiting the South-East state to commission several landmark projects completed under the administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma.
Among the projects scheduled for inauguration are the rebuilt Owerri–Mbaise–Obowo–Umuahia Road, a new flyover linking Port Harcourt and Onitsha Roads, and major upgrades at the Assumpta Cathedral Roundabout in Owerri.
The president will also commission the rebuilt Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre and unveil Uzodimma’s latest book, “A Decade of Impactful Progressive Governance in Nigeria.”
The affected markets include:
- 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
In his directive, Anunobi urged all traders in the affected markets to suspend business activities and “come out en masse to welcome President Tinubu.”
The closure is temporary and applies only to the president’s one-day working visit.
