Lagos Gives Computer Village Traders 18 Months to Relocate to Katangowa

The Lagos State Government has directed traders at the popular Computer Village, Ikeja, to relocate to the new market site at Katangowa, Agbado/Oke-Odo LCDA, within the next 18 months.

This was disclosed in a statement on Tuesday by the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Gbolahan Oki, during a stakeholders’ meeting with traders and their executives.

“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 explained that the new site had been fully equipped with the necessary infrastructure to make it conducive for business operations, unlike the present Ikeja location, which was originally a residential area converted into a commercial hub without official approval.

Oki noted that the plan to move the market had been in place since 2006 but was delayed due to slow development work. He assured traders that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is committed to inclusiveness and the welfare of the people, stressing that the relocation would be carried out in collaboration with all stakeholders.

“The governor is passionate about developing Lagos State’s infrastructure. Katangowa has been designated as the permanent site for this market. It covers 15 hectares of land and is strategically located close to the resources you need for your businesses,” Oki added.

Project Coordinator, Olayinka Bello, highlighted that the new site would feature modern infrastructure, including a police post, hotels, and access to the BRT terminal for easy transportation.

Chief Abisola Azeez, Iyaloja of Computer Village, recalled that in 2006, the market executives had reached an agreement with then-governor Bola Tinubu, now President, to relocate to Katangowa. She urged traders to comply with the government’s directive and prepare for the move within the stipulated timeframe.