The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, has urged traders and business owners at Alaba International Market, Lagos, to sustain the standards that have contributed to the market’s emergence as a major technology and commercial hub.
Musa stressed the growing link between economic security, indigenous enterprise and national development.
Speaking at the Gala and Award Night marking the unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba” in Ikoyi, Lagos, the Minister described the market’s transformation as evidence of the resilience, innovation and enterprise of Nigerian businesses.
The Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Defence, Captain Moses Yare, stated in a press release that General Musa commended the leadership of the International Market Association Electronics (IMAE), particularly its President General, Dr Camilus Nnamdi Amajuoyi, alongside the Lagos State Government, for their contributions to the market’s development.
The Minister’s assessment placed Alaba beyond its traditional identity as an electronics marketplace.
He described its expanding role in job creation, technological advancement and economic activity as evidence of the capacity of Nigerian enterprise to build commercially significant institutions with continental relevance.
A critical dimension of the transformation is the market’s effort to improve quality assurance, promote locally manufactured products and combat counterfeit goods.
These measures, according to the Minister, “could strengthen consumer confidence while positioning Alaba as a more credible technology and commercial destination.”
For the Defence Ministry, the significance of the development also lies in the relationship between security and economic activity.
General Musa stressed that businesses require a safe and enabling environment to operate, while sustainable economic growth depends on cooperation among government, the private sector and citizens.
The Minister urged traders, manufacturers and entrepreneurs in the Alaba community to preserve the culture of innovation and integrity that has contributed to the market’s growth, while encouraging them to pursue standards capable of strengthening Nigeria’s competitiveness in global markets.
The event also highlighted the role of public infrastructure in sustaining commercial growth.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, commended Alaba’s contribution to Lagos’ economy and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to reconstructing the road linking the market, a project expected to improve access and support commercial activity.
The longstanding relationship between the International Market Association Electronics and the Nigerian Army also featured in the engagement.
The Association’s cooperation with the Army dates back decades, with the Defence Minister having played a role in facilitating the relationship earlier in his military career.
