Defence Minister Unveils ‘New Alaba’, Links Security To Economic Growth
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has described the transformation of Alaba International Market as a reflection of Nigeria’s entrepreneurial strength and growing technological ambitions.
Speaking at the Gala and Award Night marking the unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba” in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Saturday, General Musa said the market had evolved beyond a conventional trading centre to become a major driver of technology, employment and economic growth with growing relevance across Africa.
He said the newly developed commercial complexes represented more than physical infrastructure, describing them as the product of the vision, resilience and sustained efforts of the Alaba business community. He commended the leadership of the International Market Association Electronics (IMAE), particularly its President General, High Chief Dr Camilus Nnamdi Amajuoyi, as well as Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for their contributions to the transformation.
The Minister said Alaba’s efforts to promote quality assurance, encourage locally manufactured products and tackle counterfeit goods were critical to strengthening the market’s credibility and positioning it as a trusted technology and commercial hub.
General Musa stressed that economic prosperity and national security were inseparable, assuring businesses that the Federal Government remained committed to creating a secure and conducive environment for investment and enterprise. He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his commitment to national security and economic stability.
He urged traders, manufacturers and entrepreneurs at Alaba to sustain their culture of innovation, integrity and excellence, saying the market had an opportunity to demonstrate Nigeria’s capacity to compete in the global technology and commercial space.
The Minister’s relationship with the Alaba business community also dates back decades. According to the Ministry, the longstanding relationship between the IMAE and the Nigerian Army was established when General Musa was a young officer, and has continued to strengthen over the years.
The event featured the recognition of individuals whose contributions have helped shape the growth of Alaba International Market. General Musa congratulated the business community on what he described as a historic milestone and expressed confidence that the market would achieve greater prominence in the years ahead.
Representing Governor Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat commended the Alaba community for its contribution to Lagos State’s economy, particularly in commerce, innovation and employment generation. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to reconstructing the road linking the market, saying the project would improve accessibility, ease business activities and further stimulate economic growth in the area.
