Lagos to Reconstruct, Expand Alaba Market Roads After Drainage Projects

Lagos State Government has said it will commence the reconstruction and expansion of roads at Alaba International Market, Ojo, after completing ongoing drainage projects in the area.

The Deputy Governor, Kadri Hamzat, gave the assurance on Friday while speaking at the unveiling of the New Face of International Market Electronics Association at the Colonnade Hotel, Ikoyi.

Hamzat said the decision to complete the drainage network before fixing the roads was deliberate, stressing that proper flood control was necessary to protect any new road infrastructure from damage.

He said the drainage project had made significant progress, with the works behind the market already about 70 per cent complete.

“We must make sure that we move water,” Hamzat said.

According to him, road reconstruction would begin once the drainage works are completed, while the existing road network would also be expanded to cope with the growing population and increasing commercial activities within the market.

The deputy governor said the state government was committed to transforming Alaba International Market into a more functional and sustainable commercial centre through improved infrastructure.

He noted that better roads and drainage would not only ease movement within the market but also reduce flooding and create a more conducive environment for businesses.

Hamzat’s assurance followed calls from market stakeholders for urgent intervention on the roads within the sprawling electronics market, which remains one of Lagos’ major commercial hubs.

Speaking at the event, former Abia State Governor and Senator, Uzor Orji Kalu, commended the Lagos State Government for its efforts to improve infrastructure around the market.

Kalu said the impact of good governance should be measured by projects that directly improve the lives and businesses of residents.

He also praised Hamzat’s experience in infrastructure development and expressed confidence that continued engagement between the government and communities would help identify and execute priority projects.

The President-General of the Alaba International Market Electronics Association, Chief Camillus Amajuoyi, described the New Face of Alaba initiative as an effort to reposition the market and improve its operating environment.

Amajuoyi said the initiative was designed to make Alaba cleaner, safer, digitally driven and more competitive internationally, while promoting integrity, discipline, innovation and adherence to global best practices.

He commended the Lagos State Government for its infrastructure and urban renewal efforts but appealed for the speedy reconstruction of the market’s roads.

According to him, a functional road network is essential for the smooth movement of goods, customers and other commercial activities within the market.