Oyo Government Awards N3.5 Billion Contracts to Upgrade Three Rural Markets
Ibadan – May 4, 2025
In a significant move to boost agricultural productivity and improve rural commerce, the Oyo State Government, through the Oyo State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (OY-RAAMP), has awarded contracts worth N3.5 billion for the upgrade and modernization of three major rural markets across the state.
The first phase of the initiative will see the comprehensive remodelling of Aare-Alasa Market in Ona-Ara Local Government Area, Oja-Agbe Market in Iseyin Local Government, and Oja-Oba Market in Ibarapa Central Local Government.
Speaking during the contract signing ceremony, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming rural markets into functional, modern hubs that support food systems, enhance trade, and empower farming communities.
“These markets will be fully modernized with upgraded infrastructure, improved access roads, and enhanced storage and logistics facilities,” Olaleye stated. “This project is a crucial step toward reducing post-harvest losses and improving access to markets for our farmers and traders.”
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Abosede Owoeye, described the contract signing as a milestone in the state's agricultural reform agenda. She emphasized that the project aligns with Governor Seyi Makinde’s broader vision for food security and economic growth in rural areas.
Providing a breakdown of the contract, OY-RAAMP Coordinator, Engr. Mrs. Adeola Ekundayo, revealed the funding allocation as follows:
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Aare-Alasa Market, Ona-Ara LGA – N1,227,196,608.81
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Oja-Agbe Market, Iseyin LGA – N1,219,954,792.90
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Oja-Oba Market, Ibarapa Central LGA – N1,042,800,042.63
She added that the Agro-Logistics component of RAAMP is specifically designed to strengthen rural infrastructure and integrate agricultural production with market access.
The contracts were awarded to the following companies:
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Quicbond Nigeria Ltd for Aare-Alasa Market
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Lee Fakino Nigeria Ltd for Oja-Agbe Market
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AB-Bond Habitat Ltd for Oja-Oba Market
Engr. Ekundayo also urged the contractors to work closely with host communities throughout the project to ensure sustainable development and community ownership.
The state government hopes that this intervention will significantly enhance the efficiency of agricultural value chains, strengthen rural economies, and improve the livelihoods of farmers and traders in Oyo State.
E-signed:
Prince Dotun Oyelade
Commissioner for Information and Orientation
Oyo State
May 4, 2025
