Lagos traditional ruler, High Chief Kehinde Kalejaiye has tasked the newly inaugurated commissioners to promptly tour communities within the state and assess urgent intervention needs.
He stated that by doing so, the newly appointed officials would gain insight into the concerns of state residents, particularly in the realms of flooding, education, and health, enabling them to address the identified challenges effectively.
The state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had charged the newly sworn in new 38 commissioners and special advisers to reflect excellence in the discharge of their duties and prepare for the challenges ahead towards achieving a bigger Lagos rising.
Read Also: Three killed in flooded Jos metropolis
The governor of the state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had charged the recently inaugurated 38 commissioners and special advisers to reflect excellence in their roles and be ready for the challenges ahead in the pursuit of propelling Lagos towards greater heights.
Addressing the newly appointed officials, Kalejaiye noted that numerous communities, residences, and businesses within the state grapple with either flooding, deteriorating infrastructure, or inadequate public health facilities, significantly impacting the quality of life for the residents.
He said: “There are huge tasks ahead of the newly appointed commissioners towards achieving a greater Lagos rising. Lagosians are eagerly yearning to have a feel of the greater Lagos rising promised by the State governor.
“We have seen how flood submerged homes and businesses across major markets and roads in the state. We have also witnessed how floods swept through homes located along riverine communities.
“For instance, in my community, we want the Ministry of Environment to dredge the Otto Creek that is located between Otumara and Otto community in Lagos Mainland and create an outlet for the free flow of water to save residents from periodic flooding.
“This is why I said this is no time for any Commissioner to sit in his/her office and be delegating authority and giving out instructions. As they settle down in their various offices, they need to visit areas and sectors that fall in their jurisdiction to see for themselves what the issues are and how best they can be tackled.
He further stated: “For instance, the commissioner for environment needs to visit areas that are the worst hit by the flood. Also, the Health Commissioner has to make an assessment tour of communities affected by this flood to check the outbreak of waterborne diseases.
“In Education, Lagosians cannot afford the standard that has been set by the State governor to be lowered. This is why the new commissioner must pay adequate attention and visit both private and public schools to maintain the Lagos standard.
“And importantly, all pipeline projects should be seen to be executed by the new administration. We want the commissioner to visit us in our community to have a feel of how our children are faring without the senior secondary school.”