By Katherine Abayomi
The Rivers State Government has commenced a major reconstruction of the historic Creek Road Market, a move expected to significantly expand the state’s Internally Generated Revenue and reshape commercial activity in Port Harcourt.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara formally approved and signed off on the project, giving the green light for a total overhaul of the ageing market infrastructure. Shortly after the approval, heavy-duty machinery moved into the old Port Harcourt Township, pulling down dilapidated structures that have long posed safety and environmental concerns.
The Creek Road Market reconstruction is a flagship project under the administration’s 2026 Urban Renewal Policy. It is designed to transform what has become a congested, chaotic and hazardous trading zone into a modern, well-planned commercial hub capable of supporting thousands of traders and attracting new investments.
For many residents, the project represents more than physical redevelopment. It is seen as a long-overdue effort to restore Port Harcourt’s reputation as the Garden City while providing traders with a cleaner, safer and more dignified environment to conduct business.
A resident, Allison, described the development as timely and commendable, noting that the market had deteriorated for years. She said the reconstruction reflects the governor’s commitment to improving the living and working conditions of ordinary people. Another resident expressed optimism that the new market layout would ease traffic congestion along the busy Creek Road axis, which has often been gridlocked by roadside trading activities.
As work progresses, sections of Creek Road have been cordoned off and converted into temporary trading zones. This has resulted in traffic bottlenecks within the township area. However, the State Ministry of Works says additional personnel have been deployed to manage vehicular movement and ensure the safety of traders and shoppers during the transition period.
According to government officials, the new Creek Road Market will operate as a “smart” commercial facility. The design includes modern sanitation and waste management systems, particularly for the seafood section, which generates a high volume of organic waste. Health authorities believe these upgrades will drastically reduce environmental pollution and the risk of waterborne diseases that have plagued the area for years.
Beyond urban renewal, the project is also driven by economic considerations. By formalizing market operations, the state aims to improve revenue collection and accurately track commercial activities. Traders will be issued shop titles, which can be used as collateral to access microloans, addressing a major challenge faced by many small-scale business owners operating in the informal sector.
Governor Fubara has assured the public that the allocation of shops will be handled transparently. He disclosed plans for a technology-driven allocation portal that will eliminate middlemen and ensure that genuine traders benefit directly from the project when completed.
As demolition and reconstruction continue, attention remains firmly fixed on Creek Road, with stakeholders viewing the project as a potential model for inclusive development that balances economic growth, public health and urban order in Rivers State.
