The Association of Progressive Traders (APT) has bolstered security at the Trade Fair Complex in Lagos with the introduction of 24-hour CCTV surveillance and collaboration with law enforcement agencies. The measures aim to protect traders, customers, and workers within the complex. According to APT's Chief Security Officer, Chief Chuka Christian Mekauwulu, the enhanced security architecture is designed to sustain the complex's zero-crime record over the past seven years.
The security upgrade was unveiled during the commissioning of a new secretariat, medical clinic, emergency ambulance, and upgraded multi-storey shop blocks at the complex. Mekauwulu emphasized that security is crucial for a thriving commercial centre. The new facilities include high-definition CCTV coverage with audio-video recording capabilities, backed by a dedicated monitoring team and round-the-clock security personnel.
The emergency ambulance and medical clinic are expected to strengthen the complex's response to medical emergencies. The clinic and other facilities were commended by the Executive Director of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, Chief Mrs Veronica Ndanusa, who praised APT's investment in infrastructure aimed at making the commercial hub safer and more functional.
APT President, Chief Eric Ifeanyichukwu-Ilechukwu, stated that the projects were conceived to improve commerce and address the welfare and safety needs of members. He described the clinic, ambulance, and other facilities as community assets and urged traders to use and protect them responsibly. The event began with a Holy Mass officiated by Rev Fr Onyelo Peter Chijioke, CSSR, of Saint Joseph Catholic Church, Agbara.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by various stakeholders, including the project engineer, Emmanuel Akinpelu; members of the APT Board of Trustees; representatives of Fidelity Bank and Taj Bank; security personnel; management and staff of the association; and traders. Former APT President, Dr Juderingo Okeke, praised the development as an enduring legacy that would benefit generations of traders to come.
Okeke called for greater government collaboration with trading associations and urged the government to support traders' initiatives and involve organised trading associations in economic policy-making. The ceremony marked a further investment by APT in security, emergency response, healthcare, and infrastructure at the Trade Fair Complex.
The new facilities are expected to improve the operating environment for businesses within the complex. The Association of Progressive Traders has demonstrated its commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for traders, customers, and workers at the Trade Fair Complex. The investment in infrastructure is also expected to enhance the overall experience of users of the complex.
Key points
- APT deploys 24-hour CCTV surveillance at Trade Fair Complex
- New medical clinic and emergency ambulance enhance emergency response
- Investment aims to sustain complex's zero-crime record and improve commerce
