Odu’a Investment Company Limited has commenced the redevelopment of the historic Obafemi Awolowo House in Ikeja, Lagos, into a cutting-edge technology hub. The move signals a strategic step by the group to modernize its legacy assets and align with Nigeria’s expanding digital economy. With the launch of this ambitious project, the company aims to transform one of Lagos’ iconic structures into a state-of-the-art tech mall designed to house technology-driven businesses and foster innovation among youth and entrepreneurs.
The formal unveiling of the project took place recently in Ikeja, drawing stakeholders from the public and private sectors. Speaking at the event, the Group Chairman of Odu’a Investment, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, emphasized that the new tech mall represents more than a structural facelift. According to him, it embodies the company’s drive to reposition its real estate portfolio for long-term socio-economic impact.
Ashiru explained that the new development will not only preserve the historical significance of the location but also bring it up to modern standards that support the needs of digital businesses. He said the Awolowo Tech Mall is envisioned as a thriving ecosystem for innovation, where young Nigerians can develop skills, build startups, and collaborate with major tech players.
The redevelopment is being executed in collaboration with real estate specialists and development partners, with Wemabod Limited, the real estate subsidiary of Odu’a Group, taking a lead role. The project will see the original structure expanded from roughly 4,800 square metres to over 9,000 square metres of commercial and tech-ready space.
Nureni Adisa, Chairman of Wemabod, stated that the project marks a bold move to integrate legacy assets with the future of business. He noted that its location—just a stone’s throw from Computer Village, West Africa’s largest tech and electronics market—makes it strategically placed to benefit from Lagos’ digital economy and tech-savvy population.
Upon completion, the facility is expected to offer smart offices, co-working spaces, tech incubation hubs, training centres, retail outlets, and other modern amenities suited for digital enterprises. Abdulrahman Yinusa, the Managing Director and CEO of Odu’a Investment Company, said the project aims to serve as a platform for empowering youth and bridging the digital divide. He added that the group intends for the mall to serve as a launchpad for homegrown technology ventures and a catalyst for local economic development.
This project aligns with Odu’a’s broader goal of transforming from a conservative asset holder into a dynamic investment entity focused on innovation and sustainable development. In recent years, the group has moved to diversify its portfolio, branching into agriculture, technology, infrastructure, and hospitality in a bid to remain relevant in a fast-changing economic environment.
Stakeholders believe the tech mall will significantly stimulate economic activities in Ikeja and its environs, bringing together small and medium enterprises, startups, and established firms under one roof. With increasing demand for innovation spaces and digital services, the new facility is poised to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s startup ecosystem and help close infrastructure gaps limiting growth.
Ashiru further explained that the transformation of Obafemi Awolowo House into a tech hub is a symbolic representation of evolution—moving from the era of traditional commerce to a future dominated by knowledge-based industries. He reaffirmed Odu’a’s commitment to supporting inclusive economic participation by providing enabling environments for emerging entrepreneurs.
While the project timeline has not been publicly disclosed, construction is expected to move at a swift pace with environmental sustainability and smart technology integration prioritized in its design. The building will feature energy-efficient systems, high-speed internet connectivity, and safety infrastructure tailored to the needs of tech companies and innovation-driven institutions.
This redevelopment effort also underscores the importance of partnerships in unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential. By working with private developers and institutional investors, Odu’a intends to foster a model that can be replicated in other parts of the Southwest and beyond. The tech mall is positioned to become a landmark development not just for Lagos, but for Nigeria’s wider efforts to nurture a robust technology ecosystem.
In addition to spurring economic activity, the tech mall is expected to generate employment opportunities during and after construction. From tech professionals and digital service providers to facility managers and support staff, the project offers broad employment potential in both direct and indirect terms.
Ultimately, the Awolowo Tech Mall stands as a testament to Odu’a Investment Company’s forward-looking agenda. By converting a heritage site into a modern technology and enterprise centre, the group is signaling its readiness to lead in the next wave of development. As the tech mall takes shape, it holds promise to become a hub of innovation, collaboration, and opportunity for Nigeria’s digital future.
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