THE HISTORY OF ONITSHA MAIN MARKET , ITS CREATION AND ITS SURIVIVAL

 

Introduction

Located in the commercial city of Onitsha in Anambra State, Nigeria, the Onitsha Main Market is the largest open air market in West Africa and one of the largest in Africa. It has a long and rich history that dates back to the pre-colonial era and has served as the economic hub of the city and its surrounding regions for centuries. In this thesis, we will explore the history of Onitsha Main Market, its creation, and its survival through various challenges and changes over the years.

Early History of Onitsha Main Market

The city of Onitsha has a long history of trading, dating back to the 16th century when it was a key center for the trans-Saharan trade route. The location of Onitsha along the banks of the Niger River made it an ideal hub for traders from different parts of the region to converge and conduct business. As the city grew and became a center for trade, a central market was established to facilitate commerce in the area.

The creation of this central market is believed to have been initiated by the founders of Onitsha, who were migrants from Ile-Ife, in present-day Osun State. They named the market 'Ose-Onitsha' which translates to 'the heart of Onitsha'. Initially, the market was situated by the riverside, where goods were easily transported by vessels, giving it the name 'Marine Market'.

Colonial Influence and the Relocation of the Market

The 19th century saw the arrival of British colonizers in Onitsha, which brought about significant changes in the city's economic landscape. The British recognized the strategic location of the market and its potential for trade and decided to relocate it to a more spacious area. In 1916, the market was moved to its current location, about a kilometer from the riverside, and renamed 'Onitsha Main Market'.

The relocation of the market led to the development of a proper market layout with designated spaces for different types of trade. The main market square was divided into sections for cloth, foodstuffs, household items, and other merchandise. This development brought an increase in the number of traders, an expansion of the market's trade network and a rise in economic activities.

Onitsha Main Market during the Post-Colonial Era

The market continued to thrive under Nigerian independence in 1960. It became the main source of revenue for the Onitsha community and the state government, with a significant contribution to the country's GDP. The market was also a major employer, providing jobs for thousands of people, and attracting traders from neighboring countries like Cameroon, Chad, and Niger.

The market also faced its fair share of challenges during this time. In the 1970s, the market was hit by several fires, leading to the destruction of goods and loss of life. These fires were believed to be deliberate, caused by rival traders or disgruntled individuals. The government's response to these incidents was the construction of improved market facilities and the deployment of fire stations within and around the market.

The Market in the 21st Century

Despite the challenges faced, the Onitsha Main Market has continued to grow and adapt to changing economic, social, and political environments. In the early 2000s, the market underwent a massive reconstruction project that upgraded its facilities, including the construction of modern shopping complexes, road networks, and parking lots. This development transformed the market into a modern shopping center, attracting more traders and customers.

However, the market's growth also brought about new challenges such as congestion, poor sanitation, and security concerns. In response, the government introduced policies and programs to address these issues, including the relocation of motor parks and the introduction of a waste management system.

Survival and Relevance of Onitsha Main Market Today

Today, the Onitsha Main Market remains a vital economic center not only for the Anambra state but also for the entire Southeast region of Nigeria. It is estimated that the market generates about N6 billion naira in revenue annually, making it a significant contributor to the state's economy. The market also remains a major provider of jobs, with over 30,000 traders and support staff working within its vicinity.

The market's survival can also be attributed to the resilience and adaptability of its traders and the community's support. The traders have established strong trade networks and partnerships, both locally and internationally, to sustain their businesses. The Onitsha community has also shown a strong sense of ownership and pride in the market, making it a part of their cultural identity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the history of Onitsha Main Market is intertwined with the history of the city itself. It has been a key player in the economic growth and development of the region, and its survival for over a century is a testament to its resilience and adaptability. The market has remained relevant despite various challenges, and its future looks promising as it continues to evolve and modernize. As the saying goes, 'When Onitsha sneezes, Nigeria catches a cold,' highlighting the significant impact of the Onitsha Main Market on the country's economy.