The Rivers State Government has officially flagged off the 2025 Christmas Discount Market, an initiative designed to provide residents with access to essential goods and services at significantly reduced prices throughout the festive season.
The event, held at the Elekahia (Yakubu Gowon) Stadium in Port Harcourt, marks the commencement of this year’s edition of the annual discount fair introduced by the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara to cushion economic pressures on households.
Governor Fubara, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Warisenibo Joe Johnson, said the programme underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that families celebrate Christmas with ease and dignity despite prevailing economic challenges. He noted that the initiative aligns with the administration’s broader efforts to support residents, stimulate local commerce and boost small businesses.
“His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, has remained committed to strengthening a business-friendly environment across the state. This is why he has chosen to ease the burden on residents during festive seasons such as Christmas. He has reenacted what he did in 2024 by approving the 2025 Rivers State Christmas Discount Market, which will run for ten days here at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium,” Johnson said.
He added that the fair has attracted both local and international vendors, including participants from Mozambique and South Africa, noting that the initiative has gained recognition beyond Nigeria. He commended the Governor’s generosity, describing it as unmatched within the South-South region.
Declaring the fair open, the Commissioner said, “We are selling at discounted prices… and so, I declare this discount market open in the name of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
The fair brings together traders, service providers and small-scale entrepreneurs offering discounted food items, clothing, electronics, household products and various services.
Photos from the flag-off showed colourful stalls and a lively atmosphere as residents trooped in early to take advantage of lower prices. Many attendees described the initiative as timely, saying it would help families navigate the high cost of living during the festive period.
The government encouraged residents to participate fully, support local businesses and make the most of the discounted market as it continues through the Christmas season.
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