The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the developer managing the relocation of Computer Village from Ikeja to Katangowa in Agbado-Oke-Odo, has introduced a flexible payment plan to assist traders during the move.
This plan was revealed during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Alausa, Ikeja, where officials restated the government’s commitment to implementing the long-awaited relocation of Africa’s largest ICT market.
In September, the state government had issued an 18-month relocation notice to traders, instructing them to move to the new site at Katangowa.
Speaking at the meeting, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, stated that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration is committed to completing the project and addressing the long-standing challenges associated with the relocation.
Oki explained that the current site of Computer Village, which was originally a residential area, has experienced unplanned expansion and overcrowding, resulting in the displacement of residents and putting pressure on local infrastructure.
He added that the new Katangowa complex would be developed to meet international standards, featuring modern facilities designed to ensure a smooth transition for traders.
“The government will provide a 15-hectare market site fully equipped with facilities such as trailer parks, hotels, banks, a police station, a fire station, and other community amenities,” he said.
Oki called on stakeholders to collaborate with the developer to ensure an orderly and transparent relocation process.
The project developer, Sam Ajose, also reassured stakeholders that the flexible payment plan was designed to make the relocation affordable and convenient for traders and business owners.
Responding to the initiative, the Iya Oloja of Computer Village, Mrs Abisola Azeez, expressed satisfaction with the arrangements, noting that her earlier worries had been resolved.
“All my fears have been laid to rest. I urge the developer to stay true to the approved design and project timelines to ensure a successful relocation,” she said.
Earlier in the year, the Computer Village leadership launched a biometric registration and enumeration exercise aimed at sanitising the market, improving security, and restoring investor confidence.
Azeez described the exercise as part of a wider rebranding effort to tackle challenges such as phone theft, fraudulent technicians, and the sale of counterfeit products.
She revealed that the initiative came after a recent security incident that nearly led to the market’s closure by the Lagos State Task Force, adding that swift action by market leaders prevented the shutdown.
Under the new market rules, only registered traders with visible identification cards will be permitted to operate. Furthermore, authorised street displays will be limited to plastic chairs, display glasses, and umbrellas, while the use of wooden structures and open flames will be banned to reduce fire risks.
