The Lagos State Government has held a stakeholder engagement with traders and residents of Computer Village, Ikeja, on the planned relocation of the market to the ICT and Business Park in Katangowa, Agbado Oke-Odo.
Speaking at the meeting held at the market square on Otigba Street, Ikeja, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, said the forum was convened at the directive of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to ensure an inclusive process in which stakeholders play an active role.
“In line with the Governor’s directive and to demonstrate the openness and transparency of the Lagos State Government, we have brought this meeting to you in your market for the first time since the commencement of the exercise some 15 years ago,” Oki said.
He noted that the Sanwo-Olu administration is fast-tracking the construction of the ultramodern ICT and Business Park and its complementary facilities, including hotels, a banking hall, a recreation centre, car parks, a fire station, a police post, and access roads.
According to Oki, moving ICT businesses from Ikeja — whose original residential character has been eroded by unplanned commercial expansion — to the purpose-built Katangowa hub would provide a win-win outcome for government and traders, offering better business optimisation and a more serene environment.
He urged Computer Village stakeholders to embrace the government’s gesture and cooperate fully for a seamless relocation, while also appealing to them to restore order to Ikeja by ending street trading and the display of wares on roads, setbacks, and drainage channels.
Director of Urban Development, Tpl. Olalekan Odujebe, and Tpl. Olayinka Bello gave a presentation highlighting the progress and benefits of the relocation.
The Iyaloja of the market, Chief (Mrs.) Abisola Azeez, thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for the initiative, saying the relocation, when completed, would enhance the market’s potential and create a more conducive environment for traders and customers.
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