Ikeja Computer Village, Nigeria’s largest tech market, is undergoing a major transformation as leaders roll out a biometric registration and vendor enumeration initiative aimed at curbing crime, restoring investor confidence, and rebranding the market as a global digital hub.
Biometric Registration Begins at Computer Village, Ikeja
The leadership of Computer Village, Ikeja, has officially launched a biometric registration exercise to verify and enumerate all vendors in the market. This initiative is part of a comprehensive effort to sanitise the environment and tackle long-standing issues such as:
- Phone snatching
- Fraudulent technicians
- Sale of substandard gadgets
According to Iyaloja Abisola Azeez, the move comes in response to recent security threats that nearly led to a shutdown by the Lagos State Task Force. “We intervened to prevent legitimate traders from being affected,” she said.
New Security Rules and Market Regulations
Under the new system, only verified traders with biometric ID cards will be allowed to operate in the market. These cards must be visibly displayed at all trading posts.
Additional Security Measures:
- CCTV installation for real-time surveillance
- Emergency alert systems
- Walkie-talkies for improved communication
- Enhanced street lighting for safer night operations
- Collaboration with security agencies for faster crime response
Baba Oja Adeniyi Olasoji emphasised that these upgrades aim to repair the market’s damaged image and improve the safety of both buyers and sellers.
Market Restructuring: New Trading Guidelines
To promote a more organised and fire-safe environment, the following measures have also been introduced:
- Only approved street setups (plastic chairs, show glasses, umbrellas) will be allowed
- Ban on wooden stalls and open flames to reduce fire risk
- No unregistered vendors will be permitted after the two-month registration period
Vision: A Globally Competitive Digital Hub
Market leaders like Prince Tony Nwakeze, Ralph Chibuzor, Ben Onuorah, Nofiu Akinsanya, and Ikani Tony have expressed full support for the transformation.
Fidelix Ezeugwu, Executive Secretary of the Ikeja Market Board, explained that the initiative is backed by a unified leadership representing Nigeria’s four major ethnic groups.
He stated:
“We’re working to align Ikeja Computer Village with global markets like Dubai and Singapore through infrastructure upgrades and accurate vendor data.”
What This Means for Shoppers and Traders
- Safer Shopping: With improved surveillance and vendor verification, customers can shop with more confidence.
- Legit Vendors Only: Buyers will deal only with certified sellers, reducing the risk of fraud.
- Enhanced Infrastructure: Lighting, communication tools, and cleanliness will improve the overall shopping experience.
- Investor-Friendly: The structured environment will attract local and international investors looking to engage with Nigeria’s tech retail sector.
