Computer Village became Africa’s largest gadget hub in two decades. Now its future is uncertain

For the seven years, Femi Benson* has been selling gadgets in Computer Village, he never defaulted on his shop rent payment until earlier this year.  

His business, with over 10 employees, was profitable and flourishing. He had enough money to pay, but stalled. The rent was due in January 2024 but he waited three months until his landlord had to lock up his shop, forcing him to eventually pay. 

All through that period, Benson wrestled with the question of whether to pay for another year or stall, fearing the government’s earlier promise to demolish the Village, Africa’s single largest gadget market.

Last updated: December 20, 2024