Written by Bababunmi Agbebi
Edited by Ezennia Uche
Traders fear job losses, reduced access as Lagos plans ICT mega market
The Lagos State Government has given traders at the popular Computer Village market in Ikeja 18 months to relocate to a new, purpose-built ICT hub in Katangowa, Agbado/Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area.
The move, officials say, is part of efforts to decongest urban centers and restore Ikeja’s residential zoning in line with the Lagos Urban and Regional Planning Law.
At a stakeholders’ meeting with market leaders, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Gbolahan Oki, said the relocation would provide traders with a more organized business environment.
“This is the first time in 15 years that the government is holding this kind of meeting directly with you in your market. It shows the governor’s commitment to openness,” Oki said.
He added that the new hub would feature hotels, banks, recreation centres, police and fire stations, and improved road access.
Officials noted that while Computer Village has grown into Nigeria’s biggest tech market, it sits on land designated for residential use. The unplanned expansion, they said, has led to congestion, overstretched infrastructure, and safety concerns.
Dr. Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser to the Governor on eGIS and Urban Development, stressed the need to align with the city’s master plan.
“The Computer Village area is within a designated residential zone under state law. It has grown into a full-blown market, which goes against the modern city plan of Lagos,” he said.
He added that the Katangowa ICT hub would come with 24-hour electricity, warehousing, schools, clinics, banking halls, parking facilities, and liberal loading bays to support thousands of businesses.
Traders divided
Despite assurances, many traders fear the move could hurt their livelihoods.
“I don’t think this is a tribal issue against the Igbos. The relocation plan has been in the works since Governor Fashola’s time,” said one laptop dealer. “As a tenant, I don’t have much to lose, but landlords will see their income drop.”
Another trader argued that the new location is less accessible:
“Most of our customers come from the Island, and Katangowa is not easy to reach. Sales will definitely drop, and people will lose jobs.”
A mobile accessories seller echoed the sentiment:
“It’s like starting all over again. My customers may not follow me that far.”
Others, however, expressed cautious optimism.
“I am prepared for wherever the government moves Computer Village,” said another trader. “It may be rough at the beginning, but we will adapt over time.”
Challenges ahead
The relocation faces several hurdles:
• Resistance from traders unwilling to move
• Accessibility concerns over transport links to Katangowa
• Fears of job losses and lower revenues during transition
• Contractor delays and complaints of unauthorised charges
• Uncertainty about infrastructure readiness at the new site
Dr. Babatunde warned contractors against exploitation, insisting all activities must follow Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) guidelines.
As the 18-month countdown begins, Lagos faces the challenge of enforcing urban order while protecting one of Nigeria’s most vibrant tech markets. Whether Katangowa becomes Lagos’s new digital hub will depend on how smoothly the transition is managed.
