Abayomi Susan
The President of Alaba International Market (Electronics), High Chief Cornilus Nnamdi Amajuoyi, has officially unveiled the market’s transformed outlook, describing the development as the realization of a long-standing vision to reposition one of Africa’s largest electronics trading hubs into a modern, globally recognized commercial destination.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Alaba International Market Secretariat in Ojo, Lagos, to formally launch the market’s new identity, High Chief Amajuoyi reflected on the remarkable evolution of the market and paid tribute to its founding fathers for laying the foundation of what has become one of Nigeria’s most successful commercial centres.
He described Alaba International Market as a major economic success story, noting that it has transformed thousands of lives by creating wealth, employment and business opportunities for Nigerians from diverse backgrounds.
According to him, the market has played a significant role in job creation across the country, producing successful entrepreneurs and billionaires with business interests spanning different parts of the world.
“Alaba has created employment opportunities for Nigerians on a large scale. It has empowered thousands of entrepreneurs who now own thriving businesses and has produced billionaires operating in different currencies across the world,” he said.
The market president disclosed that Alaba International Market currently provides direct business opportunities for more than 10,000 youths, many of whom are self-employed and making meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s economy.
He noted that without the opportunities created by the market, many young people could have become unemployed, while offering prayers for the deceased founding fathers whose vision and sacrifices laid the foundation for the market’s enduring success.
Speaking on the transformation project, High Chief Amajuoyi explained that the initiative was conceived shortly after the current executive assumed office nearly three years ago. He said the administration resolved to ensure that the physical outlook of the market reflected its status as a truly international commercial centre.
He added that extensive consultations were held with the market’s founding fathers, former presidents, members of the executive council and other key stakeholders before work commenced on the ambitious redevelopment project.
Amajuoyi also recalled that government agencies had previously demolished about 32 plazas that were declared structurally distressed. Following engagements with the relevant authorities, approval was granted to remodel the affected structures instead of embarking on complete reconstruction.
Despite the extensive upgrades, the market president expressed concern over the poor condition of the access road leading to the market, describing it as a major challenge affecting business activities.
He appealed to the Lagos State Government and other relevant authorities to urgently rehabilitate the road, stressing that improved access would complement the market’s newly upgraded infrastructure, enhance safety, facilitate the movement of goods and customers, and further strengthen Alaba International Market’s position as a leading international trading hub.
Looking ahead, High Chief Amajuoyi announced that the market would officially showcase its transformation to the global business community on August 6 and 7, demonstrating that Alaba International Market now operates in line with international standards and best practices.
He expressed confidence that the unveiling signals the beginning of a new chapter for the market and reaffirmed the leadership’s commitment to sustaining reforms that will promote trade, attract greater investment and consolidate Alaba International Market’s reputation as Africa’s foremost electronics marketplace.
