The Lagos State Government, in partnership with the developer overseeing the relocation of Computer Village from Ikeja to Katangowa in Agbado-Oke-Odo, has introduced a flexible payment plan to support traders during the transition.

The plan was unveiled at a stakeholders’ meeting held in Alausa, Ikeja, where officials reaffirmed the government’s readiness to actualize the long-delayed relocation of Africa’s largest ICT market.

DAILY POST recalls that in September, the state government issued an 18-month relocation notice to traders to move to the new site at Katangowa.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration is determined to complete the project and resolve the long-standing relocation challenges.

Oki explained that the existing Computer Village site, originally a residential area, has suffered from unplanned expansion and congestion, displacing residents and straining local infrastructure.

He added that the new Katangowa complex would be developed in line with global standards, incorporating modern facilities 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 urged stakeholders to cooperate with the developer to ensure an orderly and transparent relocation process.

The project developer, Sam Ajose, also assured stakeholders that the flexible payment plan was structured to make the move affordable and convenient for traders and business owners.

Reacting to the development, the Iya Oloja of Computer Village, Mrs Abisola Azeez, expressed satisfaction with the arrangements, noting that her earlier concerns had been addressed.

“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 this year, Computer Village leadership launched a biometric registration and enumeration drive to sanitize the market, enhance security, and restore investor confidence.

Azeez described the initiative as part of a broader rebranding strategy to combat issues such as phone theft, fraudulent technicians, and the sale of counterfeit products.

She disclosed that the exercise followed a recent security incident that almost led to a market shutdown by the Lagos State Task Force, adding that timely intervention by market leaders averted the closure.

Under the new market regulations, only registered vendors with visible identification cards will be allowed to trade. In addition, approved street displays will be limited to plastic chairs, show glasses, and umbrellas, while the use of wooden structures and open flames will be prohibited to minimize fire hazards.

Lagos Govt unveils payment plan for Computer Village relocation