NKECHI DAVID IWUCHUKWU
For decades, Computer Village, Ikeja, has been the nerve centre of Nigeria’s technology trade. From cracked phone screens to high-end laptops, cables, software, and repair services, the market has earned its reputation as West Africa’s largest tech hub, attracting buyers from across Africa.
But now, the sprawling market, an accidental evolution in a once-quiet residential neighbourhood—is set for a historic shift. The Lagos State Government has given traders 18 months to relocate to the Katangowa ICT and Business Park in Agbado/Oke-Odo, about 30 minutes’ drive from the current site.
As a matter of fact, Computer Village grew out of chaos. What began as scattered phone repair shops in the 1990s transformed into a full-blown commercial empire by the early 2000s. But this boom disrupted Ikeja’s urban layout, creating constant traffic gridlock, environmental strain, and security issues.
“We cannot sustain this disorder forever,” a Lagos urban renewal official explained. “The relocation is about restoring Ikeja’s master plan and building a purpose-built ICT hub where businesses can thrive.”
The government envisions Katangowa ICT and Business Park as a 15-hectare smart market with modern infrastructure, which includes: Paved access roads and car parks, banking halls and ATMs, police post and security systems, hotels and recreation centres with dedicated ICT clusters, warehouses, and showrooms.
According to the State government, Katangowa will not just be a relocation site but a world-class technology hub capable of attracting foreign investment and expanding Nigeria’s digital economy.
However, despite the assurances by the State government of a more conducive ecosystem, the mood in Ikeja is mixed. “I have been here for 18 years, people know Computer Village. That name is our brand. If we move to Katangowa, will the customers follow us?” Chinyere Okonkwo, a phone accessories dealer, wondered.
“I built my children’s education from this market. My worry is that customers may not travel far to Katangowa. We need assurance,” she pleaded.
Another trader said, “The relocation is more than a shift of stalls; it is a social reset, an urban gamble, and an economic test case for Lagos.
Kehinde Balogun, a software technician, noted, “Relocation may give us structure. If the new site is well planned, it will bring investors. My fear is affordability.”
Chief Emeka Nwafor, 55, a laptop dealer said, “I’ve seen this relocation story come and go since 2006. I will only believe it when I see bulldozers clearing this place.”
For smaller traders, relocation costs are daunting. Rent, logistics, and adapting to a new environment could cut into already thin margins. And there is nostalgia too—Computer Village is more than commerce, it is a community of hustlers and dreamers where friendships, apprenticeships, and fortunes are built.
It needs to be pointed out that the plan for the relocation dated back to almost two decades. In 2006, the then-Governor Bola Tinubu now the President of the country, had mooted the idea. Consequently, the administration of Babatunde Fashola pursued it but faced traders’ resistance. Also, under Akinwunmi Ambode who revived the plan but also faced severe reluctance from the traders.
However, the incumbent Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has restated the government’s determination to carry out the relocation given an 18-month ultimatum.
Although the repeated delays had left some traders skeptical, with the new directive, decongestion of Ikeja to restor its initial masterplan as a residential area is on course and renew its commercial real estate prospects.
As such, Katangowa with its economic revitalization situated in Agbado/Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area, a new dawn is in the horizon for job creation, and a formalized ICT cluster.
While traders anticipate the potential of the new site in a structured hub, concerns mount over its suitability.
While lending his voice, Dr. Tunde Alade, an economist at UNILAG, warned, “Relocation can kill a market if poorly executed. The government must ensure Katangowa is ready before enforcement. Otherwise, livelihoods are at risk.”
Meanwhile, the government has begun stakeholders’ meetings with traders, showcasing ongoing infrastructure at the new site. Construction is advancing signalling a new daily buzz of Computer Village continues its daily buzz.
Katangowa is a site which spans 15 hectares with clusters designed for ICT, textiles, and general trade. Road networks and drainage. Not less than 2,000 shops are expected in the first phase which will be expandable above 5,000 units in the near future.
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