By Odita Sunday
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), has described the transformation of Alaba International Market in Lagos as a demonstration of Nigerian enterprise, innovation and economic resilience, saying the market has evolved into one of Africa’s emerging centres for electronics and technology.
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 leadership of the International Market Association Electronics (IMAE), traders and other stakeholders for transforming the market into a major commercial and technology hub.
The minister said the modern commercial complexes recently developed at the market represented more than physical infrastructure, describing them as symbols of the vision, perseverance and collective commitment of the Alaba business community.
He particularly congratulated the President General of IMAE, High Chief Dr Camilus Nnamdi Amajuoyi, and the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for their contributions to the transformation of the market.
According to him, Alaba International Market has outgrown its traditional description as a marketplace and is increasingly becoming a significant driver of economic growth, employment and technological advancement.
Musa also commended initiatives within the market aimed at promoting quality assurance, encouraging locally manufactured products and tackling the circulation of counterfeit goods.
He said such measures would strengthen Alaba’s position as a trusted commercial centre with growing relevance beyond Nigeria.
The Defence Minister linked the success of businesses and investments to the availability of a secure environment, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to creating the conditions necessary for businesses to thrive.
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.
Musa urged traders, manufacturers and entrepreneurs in the Alaba business community to sustain their culture of innovation, integrity and excellence, stressing the need for Nigerian businesses to develop standards capable of competing in the global marketplace.
He further encouraged the business community to continue creating opportunities for younger generations and contributing to national economic development.
The event featured the recognition of individuals who have contributed to the growth and development of Alaba International Market.
Also speaking at the event, Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, commended the Alaba business community for its contribution to the economic development of Lagos State.
The governor described the market as strategically important to commerce, innovation and employment generation, while praising the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of traders operating in the area.
Sanwo-Olu also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to reconstructing the road linking the Alaba International Market, saying the project would improve access to the market, ease the movement of goods and people and further boost economic activities.
The Ministry of Defence also noted the longstanding relationship between the IMAE and the Nigerian Army, which it said had spanned decades and was brokered by Musa during his early years as an Army officer.
Musa congratulated the Alaba business community on what he described as a historic milestone and expressed confidence that the market would record greater achievements in the years ahead.
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