The leadership of Computer Village in Ikeja has commenced a biometric registration and enumeration exercise to enhance security, promote accountability, and boost investor confidence in the market.

According to Iyaloja Abisola Azeez, the initiative is part of a wider rebranding campaign aimed at tackling long-standing challenges such as phone theft, dishonest technicians, and the circulation of substandard products.

She emphasized that the exercise will help create a verified database of traders and service providers, ultimately restoring trust and order in the marketplace.

It started, “The market’s leadership announced the move after a recent security incident led the Lagos State Task Force to consider a complete shutdown. However, market representatives intervened to safeguard legitimate traders. Under the new rules, only registered vendors with ID cards displayed at their stalls will be allowed to operate.

“Approved street setups will be limited to plastic chairs, show glasses, and umbrellas, while wooden structures and open flames are banned to reduce fire hazards.”

Baba Oja Adeniyi Olasoji acknowledged the market’s damaged reputation and underscored the importance of new security measures to rebuild trust.

He revealed that initiatives such as the installation of CCTV cameras, deployment of emergency alert systems, and closer collaboration with law enforcement agencies are underway to strengthen safety and restore order in the market.

Other market leaders — including Prince Tony Nwakeze, Ralph Chibuzor, Ben Onuorah, Nofiu Akinsanya, and Ikani Tony — endorsed the initiative, describing it as a crucial step toward transforming Computer Village into a well-structured and globally competitive digital hub.

They confirmed that the biometric registration will be completed within two months, after which only verified traders will be permitted to operate in the market.

Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary of the Ikeja Market Board, Fidelix Ezeugwu, emphasized the importance of the market’s unified leadership, made up of representatives from the four major ethnic groups, as a reflection of unity and collaboration.

He noted that having up-to-date data is crucial for positioning Computer Village in line with international standards and driving sustainable growth.

He said, “Additional upgrades include installation of walkie-talkies for improved communication, enhanced street lighting, and CCTV cameras to monitor activity.

“These improvements aim to position Computer Village as a world-class market, comparable to international hubs like Dubai and Singapore.”