Lagos Begins Construction of Awolowo Technology Mall to Boost Innovation
The historic Awolowo House in Ikeja, Lagos, which has stood as a symbol of knowledge and innovation since 1978, is being transformed into a new modern technology hub called Awolowo Technology Mall. The building, once a landmark for business and culture, has been demolished and is now undergoing reconstruction to give Lagos a world-class tech space.
The project is a joint effort between Wemabod and El-Salem Nigeria Limited, designed not only to provide more commercial opportunities but also to celebrate and immortalize the vision of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, one of Nigeria’s greatest nationalists. According to the developers, the new mall will be much bigger, expanding from 4,800 square meters of space in the old building to over 9,000 square meters of commercial space.
Mr. Ben Gbade Ojo, Managing Director of El-Salem Nigeria Limited, explained that the Awolowo Technology Mall will become a center for top information technology companies. It will serve as a marketplace where ICT firms can showcase the latest innovations and offer training to young Nigerians. He noted that the hub will attract global ICT experts who will provide solutions to modern technology challenges.
“This is where ICT experts will gather, open offices, and provide training. It will be a place where problems in technology will find answers and where the latest electronic products from around the world can be accessed locally,” Ojo said. He added that Nigerians will no longer need to travel abroad to get the best ICT products and services, as everything will be available at the new Awolowo Technology Mall.
The project comes at a significant time, as data analytics company Statisense recently ranked Lagos as the world’s fastest-growing emerging technology ecosystem in 2025. Analysts believe the mall will further strengthen Lagos’ global reputation as one of the leading centers for technology and innovation.
“The ongoing development of Awolowo Technology Mall, which has already drawn attention from global ICT firms, will continue to place Lagos at the heart of global technology growth,” analysts observed.
Beyond business and technology, the new development also carries cultural importance. The mall stands as a tribute to the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s lifelong commitment to education, innovation, and excellence. It reflects his vision of progress through knowledge and development.
Once completed, the Awolowo Technology Mall Lagos is expected to become a major hub for innovation, training, and entrepreneurship, offering both Nigerian and international technology companies a space to connect with the fast-growing digital economy of Africa’s largest city.
