Defence Minister Unveils ‘New Face of Alaba’, Hails Market as Africa’s Emerging Tech Hub

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), has described the Alaba International Market as a shining example of Nigerian enterprise, innovation and economic resilience, saying the market has evolved into one of Africa’s foremost centres for electronics and technology.

Musa made the remarks on Friday at the Gala and Award Night held in Ikoyi, Lagos, to mark the unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba”, where he commended the transformation of the market and the efforts of its business community to promote commerce and technological development.

The Minister said the newly commissioned modern commercial complexes in Alaba represented more than physical infrastructure, describing them as symbols of the vision, perseverance and commitment of the business community.

He congratulated the leadership of the International Market Association Electronics (IMAE), particularly its President-General, High Chief Dr Camilus Nnamdi Amajuoyi, as well as 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 identity as a marketplace and has become an important driver of economic growth, job creation and technological advancement.

Musa also commended efforts within the market to promote quality assurance, encourage locally manufactured products and tackle the circulation of counterfeit goods.

He said such initiatives were critical to repositioning Alaba as a trusted commercial centre with relevance beyond Nigeria.

The Defence Minister further stressed the strong connection between security and economic prosperity, assuring businesses of the Federal Government’s commitment to creating a safe and conducive environment for investment and commercial activities.

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 required strong collaboration among government, businesses and citizens.

Musa urged traders, manufacturers and entrepreneurs in the Alaba community to sustain their culture of innovation, integrity and excellence, while setting standards capable of positioning Nigerian businesses to compete effectively in the global marketplace.

He also encouraged the business community to continue investing in opportunities that would benefit future generations.

The event featured the recognition of individuals whose contributions have significantly influenced the growth and development of the Alaba International Market.

In his remarks, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, commended the Alaba business community for its contribution to the economic development of the state.

Sanwo-Olu described the market as strategically important to commerce, innovation and employment generation, while praising the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit 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, 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 dates back several decades and was reportedly facilitated by General Musa during his early years as a military officer.

The Defence Minister congratulated the entire Alaba business community on the unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba”, expressing confidence that the market would achieve greater milestones and further strengthen its position as a major technology and commercial hub in Africa.