Nigerian Army Reopens Abia/Imo Boundary Market.

In a significant development for the residents of Umungwa, Obowo Local Government Area in Imo State, the Nigerian Army has officially reopened the Onuimo market for trading activities. This decision follows a three-week closure prompted by the tragic killing of several soldiers by gunmen in the vicinity.

Located beside the Onuimo River, the market serves as a vital economic hub not only for Obowo but also for neighboring communities, including Ekenobizi Umopara in Abia State. The reopening of the market signifies a restoration of normalcy following the unsettling events that led to its temporary shutdown.

During a visit to the market on Friday, Major General Hassan Dada, the General Officer Commanding the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, emphasized the shared responsibility of both the military and local citizens in safeguarding the community. He urged the traders to collaborate with security agencies, reinforcing that while the military’s primary role is to provide protection, mutual support is essential in maintaining peace and security.

General Dada also expressed a commitment to regular engagement between army commanders and the local populace to understand and address their security concerns. Furthermore, he encouraged the youth of the Igbo community to consider enlistment in the army, highlighting the profession as a noble path.

In a gesture of goodwill, the GOC distributed palliative aid, comprising ten-kilogram bags of rice and vegetable oil, to elderly traders affected by the market’s closure. This initiative aims to alleviate the hardships faced by the community during this challenging period.

The acting chairman of the market, Mr. Jerry Uzodinma, expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Army for their support and assured that traders would actively contribute to maintaining security in the area.

The reopening of Onuimo market is not just a return to trade; it symbolizes hope and resilience amidst adversity, fostering a renewed spirit of cooperation between the military and the communities they serve.