A U.S.-based Igbo organisation, Amaigbo Town Union (ATU-USA), has donated a modern market plaza to the Amaigbo community in Nwangele Local Government Area of Imo State.
The plaza, located at the Ekeukwu Amaigbo Market, was inaugurated on Tuesday.
Speaking at the inauguration, President of ATU-USA, Mr Kingsley Nmezi, said the project, valued at about N1 billion, comprises 176 lock-up shops designed to boost commercial activities in the area.
Nmezi thanked the people of Amaigbo, community associations and partners for their commitment, resources and goodwill that ensured the successful completion of the project.
According to him, the plaza, which construction began on Dec. 31, 2021, represents collective effort, progress and a shared economic vision for the community.
“It is our earnest prayer that this commercial hub will stimulate trade, create opportunities, empower local entrepreneurs and contribute meaningfully to the economic growth of Amaigbo, Nwangele LGA and Imo State at large,” he said.
He expressed concern over what he described as distractions and needless antagonism by some individuals, stressing that development thrives only where vision, sacrifice and collaboration prevail.
“Today is about progress, hope and economic empowerment. Amaigbo moves forward,” Nmezi added.
He paid tribute to the ATU-USA leadership, the Amaigbo people, the traditional ruler, Eze Nelson Nwosu, and the Amaigbo Advisory Board for their support and commitment to the project.
Chairman of the occasion, Chief Joe Ndupu, also commended Nmezi’s leadership, ATU-USA members who financially supported the project, and the building and planning committee.
Ndupu recalled that funds raised during the ATU-USA Convention in Detroit, Michigan, played a critical role in completing the project.
“Through generosity, sacrifice and love for our community, the funds raised helped carry this marketplace to completion,” he said.
He described the plaza as a symbol of unity and economic empowerment, noting that it would strengthen local trade, reduce travel for commerce and create jobs, especially for youths.
The traditional ruler of Amaigbo, Eze Nelson Nwosu, expressed deep appreciation to ATU-USA and all contributors to the project, urging community members to embrace unity and peace for sustained development.
Similarly, the President-General of Amaigbo, Mr Frank Madumere, thanked ATU-USA for its commitment to community development and expressed delight that the project was completed during his tenure.
Madumere called on other ATU branches to emulate the initiative for the continued growth of Amaigbo.