The reported termination of the Katangowa project contract, originally awarded to Bridgeways Limited, has left a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the future of Lagos’s vibrant Computer Village. This situation raises troubling questions not only for the traders but also for the wider reputation of Nigeria as it seeks to boost its tech-driven economy.
Chief Adebowale Soyebo, Chairman of the Computer Village Market Board, underscores the lack of information: “No one has ever called us to a meeting to discuss anything like that…we only read it in the news.” This absence of official communication has left traders worried about the fate of their upfront payments made to the developer. As voiced by an anonymous market official, “They need to officially inform us…how do we get our money?” (Source: Nairametrics).
The Lagos State Government’s assertion that the contract was terminated two years ago without informing the project’s central stakeholders is a glaring oversight. This lack of transparency calls into question the government’s commitment to open channels of communication and collaborative problem-solving.
Chief Soyebo’s insistence on prioritising the actual development of the new site before any talk of relocation is a sound one. For any project to maintain credibility, the promised progress must move beyond the ceremonial phase into substantive completion.
While Bridgeways Limited CEO, Mr. Jimmy Onyemenam, declined to elaborate to Nairametrics on the payment issue, his stated preference for “a more civil approach” highlights the potential for a protracted dispute between traders and the company. It remains imperative for the Lagos State Government to play an active role in facilitating a resolution mechanism and ensuring the protection of the dealers’ financial interests.
Beyond the Traders: Wider Impact
The Katangowa debacle is not an isolated incident. Stalled infrastructure projects and breakdowns in trust can create significant ripples across Nigeria’s rapidly evolving tech landscape. For foreign and domestic investors looking to support start-ups and technology hubs, such situations erode confidence in the government’s ability to provide a stable and predictable business environment.
To attract the investments and partnerships necessary to propel Nigeria’s technology sector forward, the government must demonstrate its commitment to the following principles:
- Open Dialogue: Actively fostering regular communication with all stakeholders throughout a project’s lifecycle builds trust and avoids unnecessary tensions.
- Accountability: Clearly established mechanisms for tracking project milestones and timelines allow for proactive troubleshooting and keep projects on track.
- Inclusivity: Providing a voice to those most impacted by projects ensures that they remain aligned with the real needs of the communities they are meant to serve.
While the Computer Village community seeks answers, the Katangowa situation serves as an important reminder that the success of infrastructure projects is not solely measured in blueprints and contracts. It demands a culture of transparent project management grounded in inclusive communication and proactive problem-solving. By doing so, both the government and developers can build greater trust, reduce delays, and create a fertile environment for the ongoing growth of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem.
