The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), has described the transformation of the Alaba International Market in Lagos as a testament to Nigerian enterprise, innovation and economic resilience.
Captain Moses Yare, the Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Defence disclosed this in a Statement in Abuja.
According to the Statement, Musa made the remarks on Friday at the Gala and Award Night held in Ikoyi, Lagos, to unveil the “New Face of Alaba”, where he commended the business community for transforming the market into one of Africa’s leading centres for electronics and technology.
The Minister said the newly commissioned modern commercial complexes represented more than physical development, describing them as symbols of the vision, perseverance and commitment of the Alaba business community.
He particularly congratulated the leadership of the International Market Association Electronics (IMAE), led by its President-General, High Chief Dr Camilus Nnamdi Amajuoyi, as well as the Lagos State Government for their roles in the ongoing transformation of the market.
According to him, Alaba International Market has moved beyond its traditional role as a marketplace to become a significant driver of economic growth, employment and technological development in Nigeria.
He noted that efforts to promote quality assurance, encourage locally manufactured products and tackle counterfeit goods were gradually positioning Alaba as a trusted commercial hub with relevance beyond Nigeria.
“Alaba International Market has outgrown the traditional definition of a marketplace. It has emerged as a critical driver of economic growth, job creation and technological advancement,” the Minister said.
Musa also stressed the connection between security and economic prosperity, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to creating a safe and conducive environment for businesses to operate and grow.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for what he described as his commitment to national security and economic stability.
The Defence Minister urged traders, manufacturers and entrepreneurs in Alaba to sustain their culture of innovation, integrity and excellence, while encouraging them to set standards capable of demonstrating Nigeria’s ability to compete in the global marketplace.
He also expressed confidence that the transformation of the market would create greater opportunities for future generations.
The event featured the recognition of individuals whose contributions have played significant roles in the growth and development of the Alaba International Market.
Representing the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the event, Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat commended the Alaba business community for its contribution to the economic development of Lagos.
Hamzat said the market remained strategically important to commerce, innovation and employment generation in the state, praising the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of its traders.
He also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to reconstructing the road linking the Alaba International Market.
According to him, the road project would improve accessibility, enhance the ease of doing business and stimulate further economic activity in the area.
The relationship between the IMAE and the Nigerian Army was also highlighted at the event, with the association noting that the partnership has spanned several decades.
The relationship, according to the association, was facilitated by General Musa when he was a young Army officer.
The unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba” therefore marked not only the physical transformation of the market but also a renewed recognition of its growing role in Nigeria’s technology, commerce and manufacturing ecosystem.
