The leadership of Computer Village in Ikeja has kicked off a comprehensive biometric registration and trader enumeration exercise, aiming to sanitise the market, combat criminal activities, and restore investor confidence.
According to market leaders, the initiative is a key part of an ongoing rebranding strategy designed to tackle long-standing issues, including phone theft, fraudulent repairs, and the sale of counterfeit products.
Iyaloja of the market, Abisola Azeez, noted that the decision followed a recent security scare that nearly led to a total shutdown by the Lagos State Task Force. “Legitimate traders intervened to prevent closure, but it’s clear that order must be enforced. From now on, only registered traders with visible ID cards will be allowed to operate,” she said.
In line with new safety and regulatory measures, only approved street setups will be permitted limited strictly to plastic chairs, glass showcases, and umbrellas. All wooden structures and the use of open flames have been banned to reduce the risk of fire outbreaks.
The Baba Oja, Adeniyi Olasoji, acknowledged that the market’s reputation has suffered in recent years. He outlined additional steps being taken to restore public confidence, including the deployment of CCTV surveillance, emergency alert systems, and stronger collaboration with law enforcement agencies.
Other prominent leaders Tony Nwakeze, Ralph Chibuzor, Ben Onuorah, Nofiu Akinsanya, and Ikani Tony backed the initiative, describing it as critical to transforming Computer Village into a structured, secure, and globally competitive digital marketplace.
The biometric registration is expected to be completed within two months. After this period, only verified traders will be granted the right to operate within the market.
Meanwhile, Executive Secretary of the Ikeja Market Board, Fidelix Ezeugwu, stressed the importance of a united leadership structure that represents the market’s four major ethnic groups. He added that accurate and updated data is essential for aligning the market with international standards.
“Further enhancements include the installation of walkie-talkies for better coordination, improved street lighting, and the expansion of CCTV coverage,” Ezeugwu said. “Our goal is to elevate Computer Village to the level of global tech hubs like those in Dubai and Singapore.”
