Sanwo-Olu engages Alaba Rago Market stakeholders on regeneration plan, pledges inclusivity

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The Lagos State Office of Urban Development has assured Alaba Rago Transnational Market stakeholders that its ongoing regeneration and redevelopment would be inclusive, transparent and beneficial, especially to the market’s original traders and occupants.

The assurance was given during a stakeholders’ engagement held at the palace of Oba Sulaimon Raji Ashade, the Oniba of Iba, on Wednesday.

At the meeting, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the Alaba Rago Market redevelopment was a priority for his administration.

Sanwo-Olu was represented by his Special Adviser on E-GIS and Urban Development, Dr Olajide Babatunde.

“Development has come to our doorstep – and this is sincere development.

“This is not about Mr Governor alone. He carries the mandate of the President, the Vice President, and most importantly, the people,” he said.

He emphasised that the project was not aimed at dispossessing people of their land, but rather at improving their livelihoods through organised urban growth.

“This regeneration is for the people. It is designed to benefit the original traders and residents, including the Hausa community, who have contributed immensely to the commercial growth of the area,” he said.

According to the governor, the project will be executed in six phases, with phase one expected to be completed before the end of 2024.

This phase, he said, comprised 10 blocks of 60 shops each.

Phase four, which includes a cattle ranch and trailer park, is also under construction, according to him.

He added that the redevelopment effort was a joint venture between the Lagos State Government and its development partners, and had the full support of the local communities.

“We have worked with the community, taken down distressed and improperly planned structures, and we are rebuilding – for the people who were here before,” he said.

The Chairman of Iba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mr Yisa Jubril, thanked the governor and the royal father for their roles in actualising the long-awaited redevelopment.