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Defence Minister Tasks Alaba Traders On Standards

by admin on | 2026-08-10 12:00:04

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Defence Minister Tasks Alaba Traders On Standards

By Ahmad Sirajo Makama, Abuja

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has urged the business community at Alaba International Market to sustain the standards that have driven its emergence as a major technology and commercial hub, highlighting the link between economic security, indigenous enterprise and national development.

Speaking at the gala and award night marking the unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba” in Ikoyi, Lagos, the minister described the market’s transformation as a reflection of the resilience, innovation and enterprise of Nigerian businesses.

In a statement, the Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Defence, Captain Moses Yare, said General Musa commended the leadership of the International Market Association Electronics (IMAE), particularly its President General, Dr Camilus Nnamdi Amajuoyi, as well as the Lagos State Government, for their roles in the market’s development.

The minister said Alaba has evolved beyond its traditional identity as an electronics marketplace, noting its growing role in job creation, technological advancement and economic activity. He said this demonstrates the capacity of Nigerian enterprise to build commercially viable institutions with continental relevance.

He identified quality assurance, promotion of locally manufactured products and efforts to combat counterfeit goods as key aspects of the transformation. According to him, these measures will boost consumer confidence and strengthen Alaba’s position as a credible technology and commercial destination.

General Musa stressed the relationship between security and economic activity, noting that businesses require a safe and enabling environment to thrive, while sustainable growth depends on collaboration among government, the private sector and citizens.

He urged traders, manufacturers and entrepreneurs in the Alaba community to preserve the culture of innovation and integrity that has supported the market’s growth, and to maintain standards that will enhance Nigeria’s competitiveness in global markets.

The event also underscored the importance of public infrastructure in sustaining commercial expansion. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, commended Alaba’s contribution to the Lagos economy and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to reconstructing the road linking the market to improve access and support business activities.

The longstanding relationship between the International Market Association Electronics and the Nigerian Army was also highlighted. The association’s cooperation with the Army spans decades, with the Defence Minister having played a role in facilitating the relationship earlier in his military career.

The unveiling of the “New Face of Alaba” reflects efforts to reposition one of Nigeria’s major technology markets around improved infrastructure, quality standards, local production and stronger institutional partnerships, reinforcing the link between economic prosperity and national security.