The Lagos State Government has commenced stakeholder engagement with traders and residents of Computer Village, Ikeja, as part of efforts to facilitate the proposed relocation of the market to the new ICT and Business Park in Katangowa, Agbado Oke-Odo.
Addressing stakeholders at a meeting held at the Computer Village Market Square on Otigba Street, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, stated that the engagement was in line with Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s directive for an inclusive and transparent relocation process.
“In line with the Governor’s directive and to demonstrate the transparency of the Lagos State Government, we have brought this meeting to you here in your market — the first of its kind since the relocation efforts began about fifteen years ago,” Oki said.
He reaffirmed the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to accelerating the relocation process, disclosing that significant progress had been made in the development of the ultramodern ICT and Business Park. The facility will include hotels, a banking hall, recreational centres, car parks, a fire station, a police post, and access roads, among other essential infrastructure.
Oki explained that the relocation from Ikeja — which has lost its original residential character due to the organic expansion of business activities — to the purpose-built ICT hub in Katangowa would benefit both government and traders by improving business efficiency and providing a more serene and organized environment.
He urged traders and stakeholders in Computer Village to embrace the government’s initiative and cooperate fully to ensure a smooth and timely relocation, encouraging them to take advantage of the enhanced opportunities the new site will offer.
Oki also called for immediate efforts to restore order in the current market area by stopping street trading and the display of goods along roads, setbacks, and drainage channels. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to sustainable and people-focused urban development.
During the meeting, Director of Urban Development, Tpl. Olalekan Odujebe, and Tpl. Olayinka Bello, delivered a presentation highlighting the progress of the relocation project and its anticipated benefits for the ICT business community.
In her remarks, the Iyaloja of the market, Chief Mrs. Abisola Azeez, thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for the initiative. She noted that the relocation, once completed, would elevate the market’s potential and provide a more conducive trading environment for both vendors and customers.
Also present at the meeting were the General Manager of the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), Tpl. Oladimeji Animashaun; Coordinating Director of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Builder Florence Gbaye; Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Urban Development, Mr. Segun Williams; and executive members of the Computer Village Market Association.
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