The Lagos State Government has held a high-level meeting with stakeholders from Computer Village, Ikeja, to discuss the planned relocation of the market to a new, purpose-built ICT and Business Park in Katangowa. Relocating the market would optimise business activities while restoring sanity to Ikeja, originally designed as a residential district.
Speaking at the meeting, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Urban Development, Gbolahan Oki, stated that the engagement was convened at the directive of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to promote transparency and ensure that all stakeholders are actively involved in the relocation process.
The relocation is part of a broader urban renewal and decentralisation strategy by Sanwo-Olu’s administration, aimed at decongesting major commercial hubs, improving the quality of life, and promoting sustainable urban development.
“For the first time in 15 years, the government is meeting you here in your market on this issue, it shows the governor’s commitment to openness and stakeholder engagement,” Oki said.
He explained that the Katangowa ICT and Business Park would provide modern facilities, including hotels, banking halls, recreation centres, car parks, a fire station, a police post, and access roads.
According to him, relocating the market would optimise business activities while restoring sanity to Ikeja, originally designed as a residential district.
The Iyaloja of Computer Village, Chief (Mrs.) Abisola Azeez welcomed the initiative, noting that the new site would expand the market’s potential and create a more conducive environment for both traders and customers.
Other officials in attendance included the General Manager, Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, Oladimeji Animashaun; Coordinating Director, Lagos State Building Control Agency, Builder Florence Gbaye; the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Urban Development, Mr. Segun Williams; and executive members of the market association.
Over the years, the computer village has grown rapidly in size and economic significance, attracting traders, technicians, and customers from across the country and West Africa.
The government has appealed to the traders to support the move and cease illegal street trading, poor sanitation, overcrowding including traffic which has contributed to the urban challenges in the Ikeja area.