A freight services company, Portman Limited, has finally taken possession of its disputed portion of land at the Lagos Trade Fair Complex after resolving its longstanding conflict with the Lagos Trade Fair Management Board (LTFMB).

According to the firm, the resolution marks a significant step for the company as it seeks to expand its operations and contribute to the economic growth of the Lagos Trade Fair Complex.

A Lagos High Court, Ikeja recently issued a restraining order against LTFMB, barring the body from trespassing on a portion of the land leased to Portman Limited.

The ruling was made by Justice A.M. Lawal, following an ex-parte motion filed by Portman’s legal counsel, Dr. D.A. Awosika (SAN). The case, which involved the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and its minister, stemmed from claims by Portman Limited that its lease on the disputed land remained valid despite attempts by the Trade Fair Board to repossess the area.

Speaking at a press briefing, Portman Freight Services’ project manager for the site, Engr. Ebele Geoffrey Igboanua, said the issue had lingered for a while.

“We originally started at ‘Hall 4’, but later the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) reassigned and relocated us to the land. The Bureau even conducted a survey and handed the land over to us. But as we moved to take possession, there have been efforts to intimidate us,” he said. He emphasised that despite provocations, the company chose to pursue legal channels rather than engage in confrontations.

“We are law-abiding. We followed due process, and now we are finally taking possession of the land,” Igboanua said. He revealed that the allocated land spans approximately 6.7 hectares and is crucial to Portman’s future development plans.

“This area has tremendous potential. It may be underdeveloped now, but we have a clear plan. Within two to three months, this place will be transformed. Once development starts, you’ll barely recognise the area,” he said.

He added that the land’s strategic location near major roads has already sparked interest among potential co-developers eager to establish businesses in the area.

“People want a place where they can operate comfortably, and this location offers that. We are committed to developing it into a thriving hub,” Igboanua stated.