By Erewunmi Peace

The Lagos State Government has given traders in the popular Computer Village, Ikeja, an 18-month deadline to relocate to the new Katangowa ICT Park in Agbado/Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area.

The announcement was made by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Mr. Gbolahan Oki, during a stakeholders’ engagement with traders and market leaders.

According to Oki, the relocation is part of the government’s plan to decongest Ikeja, ease traffic flow, and ensure proper urban development in the state. He noted that the Katangowa ICT Park will provide a more organized, modern, and spacious environment for technology businesses.

“We have given an 18-month window for this relocation to take place. It is in the best interest of both traders and Lagos residents,” Oki stated.

The government assured stakeholders that adequate arrangements are being made at Katangowa to accommodate businesses currently operating in Computer Village.

Computer Village, often described as Nigeria’s largest technology hub, is home to thousands of traders dealing in phones, computers, gadgets, and accessories. For years, discussions about its relocation have stirred mixed reactions, with traders citing concerns about accessibility, cost, and infrastructure readiness at the new site.

The Lagos State Government, however, insists that the move is inevitable and necessary for sustainable urban planning.