By Brown Chimezie
President-General, Alaba International Amalgamated Council of Sections, Camilus Amajuoyi, has expressed deep concerns over the deteriorating road conditions leading to Alaba International Market, describing them as the market’s greatest challenge.
Speaking in a recent interview to mark the two-year anniversary of his administration, Amajuoyi highlighted how the poor state of the roads has not only hindered business operations but also poses worrisome safety risks to traders and customers. Despite these obstacles, his administration has made significant strides in transforming the market’s infrastructure and fostering stronger ties with the Lagos State Government.
He also noted that said that the biggest electronics market in Africa is no longer just a “so-called international market” but is now firmly among the organised private sector businesses in Nigeria.
Amajuoyi, who is also the President of the International Market Association Electronics (IMAE), stated that his vision is that before he leaves office, Alaba International will become the business hub of Nigeria and Africa at large.
In this interview, he also discussed the cordial relationship between the market and the Lagos State Government, the infrastructural transformation of the market, the challenges of access roads, and other pertinent issues.
Achievements after two years on the saddle
The truth is that no one succeeds alone. So, this isn’t about me alone but about my wonderful executive team, which I was given the mandate to lead. We were sworn in on October 5, 2022, and two years later, we can proudly reflect on our achievements and the fulfillment of our electoral promises to the traders at Alaba International Market.
First, our administration succeeded in removing touts and roadside traders who had made accessing the market difficult. This action reduced the usual gridlock in front of the market and attracted more customers. It also decreased accidents and pickpocketing within the market.
We reconstructed the International Market Association Electronics secretariat into a modern edifice suitable for hosting government officials and international resource persons. Additionally, we rehabilitated failed road portions to facilitate the movement of goods and services, drilled six new boreholes, and repaired existing ones.
In the past, we lost hundreds of millions of naira annually to flooding, but with the approval of the Lagos State Government, we have begun constructing a massive drainage system. This project has already consumed over 60 million naira.
Relationship with LASG vis a vis demolition of structures
We have repaired the strained relationship between us and the Lagos State Government, which led to the demolition of some plazas and shops in the market. Prominent Igbo sons and daughters helped mediate between us and the Lagos State Government, preventing further demolitions. This has created a harmonious relationship between us and the government at all levels.
Furthermore, in line with our agreement with the Lagos State Government to rebuild and restructure Alaba International Market to meet smart city and international standards, we have begun implementation. The “New Face of Alaba” is not just a mantra but a vision inspired by selfless service to humanity and infrastructural development. Our administration has transformed the narrative of our market from a haven for touts and illiterates to a beacon of business management and entrepreneurship. We have earned national and international recognition by participating in seminars, speeches, and workshops.
Our administration is also pushing for the approval of documents for Alaba International Market through my network of contacts and legal expertise.
Improving the health of the traders
That’s a great question. We are working on improving the health of all traders by banning unhealthy restaurants and eateries in the market. We have also constructed modern restaurants in a section of our garage, ensuring that all food vendors are trained caterers who follow international best practices in food preparation.
Challenges
Our main challenge is the road leading to the market from Volkswagen Bus Stop. It is in a deplorable condition and is also an accident waiting to happen. Heavy utility vehicles bringing containers into the market often sway due to the ditches and gullies on the road. Sometimes, containers even fall off trucks, which is extremely dangerous.
I appeal to the Lagos State Governor to please come to our aid. If the road cannot be reconstructed, at least the bad portions should be rehabilitated to save lives and property. Internally, we have succeeded in resolving disputes among traders, as we know that development cannot happen without peace.
Message for the traders
First, I want to thank the key figures who supported me to become the President of Alaba International Amalgamated, including Chief Celestine Ezeani, Chief Amaechi Obodo, Chief Uche Ubochi, Chief Emeka Dike, Ohimeri Ochendo, Chief Leonard Okafor, Cosmos Obiedelu, Chief Donald Esomonye, and Evangelist Paulinus Ugochukwu, to name just a few.
To all the traders, I pledge my continued commitment to the glory of God and service to humanity. I assure them that my administration will continue to listen to their concerns and respond to their needs. As we move forward with our leadership responsibilities, I am optimistic that the future holds even greater achievements.
We are continuing to realize the vision of our founding fathers. This place is not just a market of repute but a community of people united in vision, peace, and dedication. I am deeply inspired by their continuous support.