The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has called on government to prioritise business incentives, security, and infrastructure that support night‑time economic activity, rather than focusing heavily on constructing markets under the 24‑hour economy initiative.

The Executive Secretary of COPEC, Duncan Amoah, said the success of the policy depends on creating conditions that encourage businesses to operate beyond traditional working hours and attract consumers at night.

Speaking on Channel One TV, he cautioned that building markets without addressing security concerns, poor street lighting, and weak demand could result in underutilised public infrastructure.

“Government does not, for me, have a business going to build markets. I don’t subscribe to that one,” he stated.

Amoah argued that government should instead create an enabling environment where businesses such as pharmacies, salons, shops, and restaurants can safely extend their operating hours and generate additional revenue.

He stressed that improved security is critical to building consumer confidence, noting that many people are reluctant to go out at night due to fears of robbery and other crimes.

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He called for increased police visibility at night, alongside improved street lighting in communities and on major roads.

“The number of men you put out there in the daytime, double it at night. We don’t want just the stop police checkpoints. We want to see them,” he said.

Duncan Amoah also proposed incentives for businesses to attract customers during off-peak hours, including reduced prices for selected goods and services.

He said such measures could stimulate consumer spending while giving businesses an opportunity to increase sales and extend their operating hours.

DR/SA

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