Government Commitment to Infrastructure

The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, has assured traders at Alaba International Market that their longstanding appeal for the reconstruction of the dilapidated Volks–Igbede access road will be presented to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for necessary action.

Ojelabi gave the assurance during the unveiling of the market's transformed infrastructure at an event tagged "The New Face of Alaba." During the ceremony, traders renewed calls on the Lagos State Government to rehabilitate the strategic road, which they described as the biggest obstacle to business activities in Africa's largest electronics market.

Addressing the traders, Ojelabi acknowledged the concerns raised over the poor state of the road and promised to personally relay the request to the governor to ensure the project moves forward following necessary administrative engagements.

We have heard your cry. I will personally take this request to Mr. Governor. Once the necessary engagements are concluded, we will work towards delivering the project.

— Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, Chairman, All Progressives Congress, Lagos State

Modernisation and the New Face of Alaba

Ojelabi commended the leadership of Alaba International Market for what he described as a remarkable transformation of the commercial hub within three years. He noted that the market remains a critical contributor to the economy of Lagos State and requires continued government engagement to address operational challenges affecting businesses within the area.

Earlier in the event, the President of Alaba International Market Electronics (IMAE), High Chief (Dr.) Camilus Amajuoyi, stated that the market had undergone a comprehensive facelift since the current leadership assumed office in August 2022. He noted that virtually all structures within the market have been renovated to meet international standards, repositioning Alaba as a modern commercial destination.

When we assumed office, Alaba was not what it is today. People doubted that we could transform the market, but today they can see that the new face of Alaba is a reality.

— High Chief (Dr.) Camilus Amajuoyi, President, Alaba International Market Electronics (IMAE)

The Volks–Igbede Road Crisis

Despite the internal transformation, Amajuoyi lamented that the primary infrastructure yet to reflect the new image of the market is the Volks–Igbede access road. Describing the route as a "death trap," he explained that its poor condition has led to frequent accidents involving container-laden trucks, resulting in the destruction of goods and significant financial losses for traders.

He disclosed that more than 1,000 containers pass through the corridor every month, generating substantial revenue for the government. He emphasized that reconstructing the road, which is less than four kilometres long, would improve safety, facilitate the movement of goods, and further boost commercial activities in the region.

The only thing that is not wearing a new look is the road leading to Alaba. We appeal to the Lagos State Government to fix this road. It is not up to four kilometres, yet it has become a nightmare for everyone doing business here.

— High Chief (Dr.) Camilus Amajuoyi, President, Alaba International Market Electronics (IMAE)

Stakeholder Advocacy and Government Support

The Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Tolani Sule, who represented Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, congratulated the market leadership for modernising the facility. He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government's commitment to supporting businesses that drive economic growth and promised continued partnership with Alaba International Market.

Former Governor of Imo State and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Emeka Ihedioha, also backed the traders' appeal. He urged the Lagos State Government to prioritise the reconstruction of the access road, citing its importance to the national economy.

Ihedioha described Alaba International Market as a major economic asset whose contribution to Lagos State deserved corresponding infrastructure support to ensure safety and efficient trade operations for the thousands of businesses located there.