The Lagos State Government has set an 18-month timeline for traders at Computer Village in Ikeja to move to the new market location at Katangowa in the Agbado/Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area.
Gbolahan Oki, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, made this announcement during a stakeholders’ meeting with the traders and their leaders at the market on Tuesday, September 23.
“The government wants your cooperation to ensure the relocation comes to pass. The time is now. We have to make the project a reality. The relocation period is 18 months,” Oki said.
He stated that the 15-hectare Katangowa site has been fully equipped with essential facilities to create a business-friendly environment. The relocation plan, initially introduced in 2006, had been delayed due to slow progress in development work.
Oki noted that the Ikeja location was originally designated as a residential area but was transformed into a commercial hub without government authorization. He emphasized that the meeting aimed to involve the traders in accordance with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to inclusive governance and concern for citizens’ well-being.
“The governor is passionate about infrastructure development and wants you to be aware of the relocation. Katangowa is a place chosen for everything relating to this market. It is near all the materials you need for your business,” he said.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli