The Lagos State Government has begun fresh consultations with traders at the popular Computer Village, Ikeja, over their planned relocation to the new Katangowa ICT and Business Park in Agbado/Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area. Officials say the move is designed to decongest Ikeja, restore its original residential layout, and provide a modern, more organised marketplace for the state’s booming technology hub.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting with traders, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Mr. Gbolahan Oki, said the dialogue reflected Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to inclusiveness and transparency in the relocation process. “This is the first time in 15 years that government is holding this kind of meeting directly with you in your market. It shows the governor’s commitment to openness,” Oki told the gathering.
He explained that work had been accelerated at the Katangowa site, which is being developed into a world-class ICT and Business Park. According to him, the new complex will feature modern facilities such as hotels, banks, recreational centres, car parks, a fire station, a police post, and well-constructed access roads. Oki stressed that the relocation would not only enhance traders’ business prospects but also benefit the wider Lagos public by reducing congestion in Ikeja and providing a more conducive environment for commerce.
Highlighting the challenges of the current market, Oki noted that Ikeja’s original residential design had long been disrupted by unchecked commercial activities. He appealed to traders to embrace the relocation plan, discontinue street trading, and help address the perennial setbacks and drainage issues in the area. Officials from the Urban Development Department also made a presentation showcasing the ongoing efforts and benefits of the Katangowa project.
Responding on behalf of the traders, the Iyaloja of Computer Village, Chief Abisola Azeez, expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for engaging directly with stakeholders. She welcomed the initiative, saying the relocation would expand the market’s potential, create more business opportunities, and improve customer experience. “The new site will enhance the image of Computer Village and provide traders and buyers with better facilities,” she said.
The meeting was attended by several senior state officials, including the General Manager of the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, Mr. Oladimeji Animashaun, the Coordinating Director of the Lagos State Building Control Agency, Mrs. Florence Gbaye, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Urban Development, Mr. Segun Williams. Executive members of the Computer Village market association were also present.
Stakeholders agreed that while the relocation may come with challenges, the long-term benefits for both traders and the state are significant. By moving to Katangowa, Lagos aims to reposition Computer Village as a structured technology hub that can compete globally while easing pressure on Ikeja’s infrastructure.
The relocation project, first conceived more than a decade ago, had faced delays due to resistance from traders and logistical hurdles. With renewed government commitment and trader cooperation, officials believe the plan can now move closer to full implementation, paving the way for a modern ICT hub that reflects Lagos’ vision as a smart mega-city.
