Lagos State Begins Distribution of Provisional Allocation Letters for Market Redevelopment
The Lagos State Government has initiated the distribution of provisional letters of allocation to the first 180 beneficiaries of the Alaba Transnational Market redevelopment project. This marks a significant step in the state’s ongoing efforts to modernize its market infrastructure and improve the commercial environment for traders.
During a presentation ceremony held at the LASBCA Headquarters in Ikeja, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, the Special Adviser to the Governor on eGIS and Urban Development, emphasized that the project aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda. This initiative aims to deliver tangible benefits to residents through improved public services and infrastructure.
Babatunde highlighted that the government is currently redeveloping 21 markets across Lagos, including notable locations such as Alaba Nago, Katangwa Market, Pelewura, Pelewura Oniru, Bombata, and Jankara. He described the Alaba Transnational Market, previously known as Alaba Nago, as the largest cattle market in West Africa. The redevelopment project is designed to transform this facility into a modern commercial hub, equipped with essential amenities and infrastructure.
Several state agencies and financial institutions have collaborated to ensure the success of the project. These include the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), United Bank for Africa (UBA), Debt Management Office, Ministry of Finance, Office of Public Private Partnership, and the Office of the Accountant-General. Their combined efforts have been crucial in advancing the redevelopment process.
Transparency remains a key priority for the government. Babatunde recalled that Governor Sanwo-Olu had published the list of beneficiaries in September 2025 to reassure traders that the redevelopment was not aimed at displacing them from their properties. “We are building 3,000 market stalls alongside banks, clinics, police stations, abattoir facilities, trailer parks, road networks, perimeter fencing and gatehouses to meet modern commercial standards,” he said.
The selection of the 180 beneficiaries was based on completed blocks, with additional allocations expected as construction progresses. The next phase is anticipated to accommodate approximately 600 traders. Each beneficiary receives five copies of the allocation letter, which are shared among the allottee, Debt Management Office, UBA, Alaba Transnational Market management, and the government office.
Community Response and Project Milestones
Husseini Lajawa, the chairman of the Alaba Rago Central Committee Association, welcomed the allocation exercise as a fulfillment of promises made by the state government since 2022. He noted that traders had actively engaged with the government to advocate for the redevelopment of the market and expressed satisfaction with the level of collaboration between the government and financial institutions.
Lajawa stated that three blocks of shops have been completed and allocated to traders. The cost of shops was set at N13 million for ground floor units, N12 million for first floor units, and N10 million for second floor units. He praised the government for prioritizing existing traders in the allocation process, ensuring that the redeveloped market remains beneficial to the Alaba community.
The allocation ceremony was described as a landmark achievement for traders, with optimism that the modern facilities will enhance commercial activities and improve working conditions. Lajawa reaffirmed the traders’ commitment to supporting the government’s redevelopment initiative and maintaining the upgraded market infrastructure.
Future Plans and Community Engagement
As the project moves forward, the government continues to emphasize transparency and stakeholder engagement. The next phase of allocations will be carefully managed to ensure fairness and inclusivity. Traders and community leaders remain optimistic about the long-term benefits of the redevelopment, which includes improved infrastructure, better services, and a more efficient trading environment.
With the completion of the initial phases, the focus now shifts to the ongoing development of the remaining blocks. The government has committed to regular updates and communication with all stakeholders to maintain trust and support throughout the process.