By Abdullahi Abdulrahman, Yenagoa
National News — Traders in Bayelsa State have expressed willingness to comply with the directive issued by the state government for all shops to remain closed on Friday, April 10, 2026, ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to the state.
The directive was announced by the Honourable Commissioner for Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr. Ebieri Jones, during a meeting held on April 8, 2026, at the Commissioner’s Conference Hall, Secretariat Annex 4, Yenagoa, as part of preparations to receive the President.
The President is expected to inaugurate four major legacy projects during his visit to the state.
Reactions from traders were largely calm, with many expressing support for the directive, while a few others remained indifferent.
Several traders noted that closing their shops for the day would allow them to participate in welcoming the President and ensure smooth movement during the visit.
Speaking with National News at the Swali Ultra Modern Market, Madam Chizzy, a trader who sells baby clothes, supported the government’s decision to suspend trading activities for the day.
“If the government wants to close the market, they have the right to do so. Besides, the roads here are usually very busy, so suspending market activities is the right call,” she said.
She further expressed confidence in the government’s ability to successfully organise the event, urging traders to comply with the directive.
Also speaking, a meat seller, Alhaji Zehanu Musa, said the temporary closure would not significantly affect traders.
“It is just for one day. We have been coming to the market every day, so we can endure staying away for one day,” he said.
However, while the majority of traders expressed support, some raised concerns about the potential economic impact, especially given the current economic challenges in the country.
A trader who requested anonymity told National News that he was dissatisfied with the government’s decision, noting that some traders rely on daily income to meet their basic needs.
“Some of us are struggling to survive during this period. Asking us to stay at home for a whole day could cause minor financial setbacks. The government should have allowed us to trade while only clearing the roads for the President to pass,” he said.
Despite these concerns, traders across major markets in the state expressed readiness to comply with the directive as they await President Tinubu’s visit and the inauguration of the projects.
