Defence Minister unveils ‘New Face of Alaba’, hails market’s growth

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd.), has commended the transformation of Alaba International Market, describing it as an example of Nigerian enterprise, innovation and economic resilience.

Musa spoke at the gala and award night marking the unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba” in Ikoyi, Lagos, where he acknowledged the market’s development as a major centre for electronics and technology.

The minister said the newly commissioned commercial complexes represented more than physical development, noting that they reflected the vision and efforts of the Alaba 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 market’s transformation.

Musa said Alaba International Market had evolved beyond its traditional role as a marketplace to become an important contributor to economic activity, employment and technological development.

He also highlighted efforts within the market to promote quality assurance, encourage locally manufactured products and tackle counterfeit goods, saying such measures would strengthen confidence in the market.

The minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to providing a secure and conducive environment for businesses to operate.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s focus on national security and economic stability, stressing the importance of collaboration among government, businesses and citizens in promoting sustainable development.

Musa urged traders, manufacturers and entrepreneurs in the Alaba community to sustain their commitment to innovation, integrity and excellence.

According to a statement by the Ministry of Defence Public Relations Officer, Capt. Moses Yare, the minister encouraged members of the business community to maintain standards that would enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness while creating opportunities for future generations.

The event also featured the recognition of individuals whose contributions have supported the development of Alaba International Market.

Musa congratulated the Alaba business community on the milestone and expressed optimism about further development of the market.

In his remarks, Lagos State Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, commended the Alaba International Market community for its contribution to the state’s economy.

Hamzat said the market remained important to commerce, innovation and employment generation, while commending the resilience and enterprise of its traders.

He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to reconstructing the road linking Alaba International Market, saying the project would improve accessibility, ease business activities and support economic growth in the area.

The statement also noted that the IMAE had maintained a longstanding relationship with the Nigerian Army spanning several decades, adding that the relationship was facilitated by Musa when he was a young army officer.

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