LASG Gives 18-Month Deadline for Computer Village Relocation to Katangowa

The Lagos State Government has set an 18-month deadline for traders at Computer Village, Ikeja, to relocate to the new ICT business hub being developed in Katangowa, Agbado/Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Gbolahan Oki, disclosed this at a stakeholders’ meeting with market executives and traders. He explained that the decision, which has been under consideration since 2006, aims to restore Ikeja’s original residential status while providing a more structured commercial environment for Nigeria’s largest technology market.

“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.

According to him, facilities at Katangowa have been designed to support business activities, including a police post, hotels, banking halls, fire station, and proximity to the BRT terminal for easy movement of goods and people. The new ICT hub spans 15 hectares of land and is expected to accommodate thousands of traders and their businesses.

Oki noted that the relocation plan had stalled for years due to slow development at Katangowa, but assured stakeholders that the Sanwo-Olu administration is committed to completing the project and making the transition seamless. “The governor is passionate about infrastructure and inclusiveness. He wants all of you to be part of the process, and we will plan the relocation together,” he added.

Project Coordinator, Olayinka Bello, said the hub was conceived as a modern commercial complex with security, accessibility, and support facilities that meet global standards.

Responding, the Iyaloja of Computer Village, Chief Abisola Azeez, reminded traders that an agreement on relocation was first reached in 2006 under then-Governor Bola Tinubu, now President of Nigeria. She urged market members to abide by the government’s decision and prepare for the move.

However, while government officials project optimism, some traders remain concerned about the financial and logistical implications of the relocation. Observers note that previous attempts were stalled by resistance from stakeholders and questions about the adequacy of the Katangowa site.

With the new deadline, the state insists it is determined to finally resolve the long-running debate and transform Katangowa into Lagos’ official ICT and electronics hub.