The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has described the Alaba International Market in Lagos as a major centre of technology, innovation and economic enterprise with growing relevance across Africa.
Musa stated this at the Gala and Award Night marking the unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba” in Ikoyi, Lagos, where he commended the market’s transformation into one of Africa’s leading hubs for electronics and technology.
The Defence Minister said the newly commissioned modern commercial complexes represented more than physical development, describing them as a symbol of the vision, resilience and commitment of the Alaba business community.
He congratulated the leadership of the International Market Electronics Association (IMEA), particularly its President-General, High Chief Dr Camilus Nnamdi Amajuoyi, as well as the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for their contributions to the transformation of the market.
Musa said Alaba International Market had outgrown the traditional concept of a marketplace, stressed that it had become an important driver of economic growth, job creation and technological advancement.
He also commended ongoing efforts by stakeholders in the market to promote quality assurance, encourage locally manufactured products and tackle counterfeit goods, noting that such measures would strengthen Alaba’s position as a trusted commercial hub with continental relevance.
The Minister linked economic prosperity to a secure business environment, assuring entrepreneurs and investors of the Federal Government’s commitment to creating conditions conducive to sustainable business growth.
He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, for his commitment to national security and economic stability, stressing that sustainable development required strong partnerships between government, businesses and citizens.
Musa urged traders, manufacturers and other entrepreneurs in Alaba to sustain their culture of innovation, integrity and excellence, challenging them to maintain standards capable of positioning Nigerian businesses to compete effectively in the global market.
The Minister also highlighted the long-standing relationship between the IMEA and the Nigerian Army, noting that the partnership had endured for decades and was brokered by him during his early years as a military officer.
He said the enduring relationship reflected the importance of cooperation between security institutions and the business community in promoting stability, development and economic prosperity.
The event also featured the recognition of individuals whose contributions have significantly influenced the growth and development of Alaba International Market.
Representing the Lagos State Governor, Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat commended the Alaba business community for its contribution to the economic development of the state.
Hamzat described the market as strategically important to commerce, innovation and employment generation, while praising the resilience and enterprise of its traders.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to reconstructing the road linking the Alaba International Market, saying the project would improve accessibility, ease the movement of goods and people, enhance the ease of doing business and stimulate further economic activities in the area.
The unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba” mark a significant milestone in the market’s transformation and its ambition to strengthen its position as a major commercial and technology hub in Nigeria and Africa.
