The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has hailed the transformation of Alaba International Market, describing the renowned Lagos commercial centre as a symbol of Nigerian enterprise, innovation and economic resilience.
Speaking at the Gala and Award Night marking the unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba” in Ikoyi, Lagos, General Musa said Alaba had evolved beyond its traditional identity as a marketplace to become one of Africa’s emerging centres for electronics, technology and commerce.
He said the newly commissioned modern commercial complexes represented more than physical development, describing them as evidence of the vision, perseverance and commitment of the Alaba business community.
General Musa congratulated the leadership of the International Market Association Electronics (IMAE), particularly its President General, High Chief Dr Camilus Nnamdi Amajuoyi, as well as Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for their contributions to the transformation.
The Minister noted that Alaba International Market had become an important driver of economic growth, job creation and technological advancement in Nigeria, with an influence increasingly extending beyond the country.
He also highlighted efforts within the market to promote quality assurance, support locally manufactured products and combat counterfeit goods, saying the measures were helping to position Alaba as a trusted commercial hub with continental relevance.
General Musa stressed the link between security and economic prosperity, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to creating a safe and enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, for his commitment to national security and economic stability, noting that sustainable development depends on strong partnerships between government, businesses and citizens.
The Defence Minister urged traders, manufacturers and entrepreneurs within the Alaba community to sustain their culture of innovation, integrity and excellence.
He encouraged them to continue setting standards that demonstrate Nigeria’s capacity to compete globally while creating opportunities for future generations.
The event also featured the recognition of outstanding individuals whose contributions have helped shape the growth and success of Alaba International Market.
General Musa described the unveiling as a historic milestone for the Alaba business community and expressed confidence that the market would achieve greater accomplishments in the years ahead.
Sanwo-Olu Reaffirms Commitment to Alaba Road
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, commended the Alaba International Market community for its contribution to the economic development of Lagos State.
He described the market as strategically important to commerce, innovation and employment generation, while praising the resilience and enterprise of its traders.
The Governor reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to the reconstruction of the road linking Alaba International Market, saying the project would improve accessibility, enhance the ease of doing business and stimulate further economic activity in the area.
The event also highlighted the longstanding relationship between the International Market Association Electronics and the Nigerian Army, which has spanned several decades.
The relationship was brokered by General Musa during his early years as a young officer, further underscoring the longstanding connection between the Alaba business community and the Nigerian Army.
The unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba” represents more than the development of modern commercial structures. It reflects the evolution of a business community built on enterprise, resilience and innovation, and its ambition to position Alaba as a modern technology and commercial hub with growing influence across Africa.
