The Nation Newspaper

Category: Grassroots

  • Apapa residents get free health insurance, cash support

    Apapa residents get free health insurance, cash support

    No fewer than 300 residents of Apapa in Lagos have been enrolled in the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme, courtesy of their representative in the House of Assembly, Musibau Lawal.

    The lawmaker, who chairs the House Committee on Health, also handed cash support of N50,000 each to 50 traders to boost their businesses.

    Lawal made the presentation during the 10th Annual Constituency Stakeholders’ Engagement held at the Secretariat of Apapa-Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

    This year’s engagement, with the theme “Governance in Action: The Gains of the Renewed Hope Agenda”, was simultaneously held across the 40 constituencies of the state.

    Highlighting the benefits of the health package, Lawal said it covers preventive services such as scaling and polishing.

    He noted that the intervention aligns with the Assembly’s legislative priorities on education, healthcare delivery and youth empowerment.

    The lawmaker, while giving account of his stewardship, said that he has facilitated jobs for over 100 constituents and extended support to victims of recent fire disasters in the constituency.

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    Speaker of the Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, in a statewide broadcast to the engagements, said the 10th Assembly has so far passed over 467 resolutions.

    He described the figure as proof of the Assembly’s active role in supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda through laws covering environmental sustainability, housing, healthcare, education, civic engagement and security.

    Obasa said a University of Medicine and Health Sciences would soon be established in the state, with a public hearing on the enabling bill scheduled for next week.

    On the proposed medical school, Lawal said the initiative would help retain talent in the health sector.

    “Many of our medical students travel overseas in search of greener pastures. Since they are not tied by any agreement, they are free to leave. This new university will help retain talent and strengthen our health sector”, he said.

    Chairman of Apapa-Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Jimoh Saliu, lauded Lawal’s interventions, describing the annual forum as a vital platform for residents to voice concerns and influence policy.

    “I must commend the visionary leadership of Lawal, whose dedication to the people of Apapa-Iganmu is nothing short of inspiring. His tireless efforts in driving employment opportunities across our LCDA have been so impactful that, as we say, even the deaf can hear the positive changes,” he said.

    The council chief added: “We are particularly thrilled about the 300 free health insurance packages that will provide essential healthcare access to our constituents. Equally commendable is the business support programme for 50 traders, empowering our entrepreneurs to thrive and contribute to the economic vibrancy of Apapa-Iganmu LCDA”.

  • INEC urges Mushin residents to transfer voter registration

    INEC urges Mushin residents to transfer voter registration

    By Sumayyah Omotunde

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged eligible citizens, particularly residents of Mushin Local Government Area of Lagos State, to take full advantage of the ongoing voter registration and transfer exercise.

    Speaking at a sensitisation forum, INEC official, Oje Abiodun, said that the initiative is designed to ease the process for citizens who wish to register, transfer, or update their voter information without unnecessary stress.

    “This exercise concerns every eligible citizen, particularly in Mushin Local Government. You don’t need to travel long distances. You can transfer your registration to where you reside, whether interstate, inter-local government, or even within the same community,” he said.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    He noted that the transfer process covers interstate, inter-LGA, and intra-LGA movements, ensuring that voters are not disenfranchised when they relocate.

    Abiodun also emphasised the pivotal role of community leaders, artisans, traders, and socio-political groups in sensitising residents on the importance of participating in the exercise.

    “As leaders and influencers in your various communities, be it in the markets, among artisans, or within socio-political groups, you occupy a strategic position in mobilising our people,” he said.

    “INEC is fully committed to conducting this exercise with transparency, credibility, and efficiency. But we cannot achieve this alone. We rely on your collaboration to spread the message widely, to encourage participation and to discourage apathy,” he said.

  • Emilagba performs groundbreaking of 255m Orokun Road

    Emilagba performs groundbreaking of 255m Orokun Road

    Lagos Mainland Local Government Chairman, Kolawole Emilagba on Monday carried out the groundbreaking exercise for the reconstruction of Orokun Street, in Ebute-meta West.

    Emilagba said the reconstruction is in line with his administration’s collective commitment to progress, development and dedicated service to the people of Lagos mainland.

    He said the administration, since assuming office in July, has embarked on several key infrastructural projects, including “the reconstruction of the road network from Jebba through Tapa Street to Oko-Baba, as well as the rebuilding of the police post at Odaliki in Ward C,” adding that all projects alongside the Orokun road will form part of the projects to mark his administration’s 100 days in office.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    In the area of education, he said the council has distributed 500 GCE forms to pupils, launched tutorial programmes for them and will soon commence the distribution of free exercise books across all public schools within its jurisdiction. He added that his administration is committed to establishing ICT centres in all public primary schools in Lagos Mainland to be powered by sustainable solar energy, while also renovating U.N.A. primary School in Oyingbo and tackling flooding challenges at Kadara Primary School at Oko-Baba.

    Emilagba appealed to residents for patience and understanding while the construction is ongoing, even as he warned against indiscriminate location of containers, refuse dumping and spilling of oil by auto-mechanics once the road is completed, stating that nobody will be spared by the long arm of the law when caught.

    The Council Engineer/HOD Works, Sunday Makinde, said the road, when completed will be 255meters long along with drainage on both sides totaling 510 meters along with street lights.

  • Lagos creating environment for women to thrive, says Sanwo-Olu

    Lagos creating environment for women to thrive, says Sanwo-Olu

    By Eniola Akinwande, Aishat Ahmed, Faith Ajiboye, Victoria Shobiye

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday said the state is intentional about breaking barriers, dismantling discrimination, and creating an enabling environment where women can flourish without hindrance.

    He spoke during Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI) held at De Blue Roof, LTV 8 Complex, Agidingbi, Ikeja.

    Represented by his wife, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the governor said his administration remains resolute in protecting and advancing the rights of women.

    “We will continue to strengthen policies, laws, and institutions that guarantee safety, dignity, and equal opportunities for all women in Lagos State,” he said.

    He described the initiative as a “strategic investment,” aimed at strengthening and providing a clear pathway to financial independence for women-owned businesses in the state.

    Sanwo-Olu added that empowering women equals to empowering the larger society.

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    “When a woman is empowered, it positively impacts her family, her community, and society at large. Women are the foundation of homes, the drivers of small businesses, and the nurturers of future generations,” she stated.

    Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MWAPA), Mrs Bolaji Dada, said 70 per cent of the beneficiaries were graduates of the state’s tuition-free skills acquisition centres.

    This, she said, demonstrated the government’s commitment to not only teaching skills but also providing the resources needed to transform those skills into sustainable businesses.

    She added that the tools were more than just working tools; they are “gateways to dignity, productivity, and financial independence.”

    Mrs Dada said the MESI programme was part of a broader empowerment drive by the ministry.

    She added that other key initiatives, including the Life Skills Economic Empowerment Programme (LEEP), have equipped about 1,500 individuals with marketable skills.

    She added that her ministry has also been providing training and distributing equipment for cassava and fufu processing, palm oil production, and fish farming.

    Permanent Secretary of MWAPA, Mrs. Rianat Onigbanjo, thanked Governor Sanwo-Olu for his “visionary leadership” and continuous support.

    She hailed Mrs Dada, and the entire staff for their “tireless drive” and “commitment” to the success of the initiative.

  • Lagferry transports over three million passengers

    Lagferry transports over three million passengers

    The Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) has transported more than three million passengers in the last five years, a significant milestone announced by the company’s Managing Director, Abdoulbaq Ladi Balogun, at its 2025 Strategic Management Retreat.

    The event, with the theme: ‘Advancing Water Transportation for a Sustainable Lagos’, focused on expanding water transportation as a key part of the state’s multimodal transit system.

    Balogun noted that since its re-launch in February 2020, LAGFERRY has been a major player in easing Lagos’s notorious road congestion.

    He credited Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s support for the company’s success, highlighting the addition of 14 new boats to the fleet since 2020. This expansion brought the total number of boats to 19, allowing the agency to scale its operations dramatically.

    Balogun said: “From February 2020 to June 2025, LAGFERRY’s achievements include, completing 27,337 trips, covering over 745,851 kilometers on the waterways, operating for 31,272 hours, equivalent to over 1,303 days, creating 300 jobs and moving 923,120 trucks via multi-purpose barges.

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    “We have demonstrated the potential and capacity of water transportation. LAGFERRY has become a model for other providers and has drawn significant private sector investment.”

    Balogun emphasised the goal of creating a seamless multimodal transportation system, connecting water, rail and road to provide residents with efficient alternatives.

    “The ongoing construction of major interchanges at Mile 2 and CMS Marina will link all three transport modes,” he added.

    The Permanent Secretary of the Public Service Office, Sunkanmi Oyegbola, stressed that reducing road traffic saves man-hours and improves the quality of life for Lagos residents.

    She called on LAGFERRY to continue collaborating with other government agencies, such as the Ministry of Waterfront and Infrastructure and the Ministry of Works, to ensure a holistic delivery of efficient services.

    Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Olawale Sanusi, praised the agency for providing a viable alternative transportation route and committed to partnering with LAGFERRY to “sustain and also build on the development.”

    Chairman of Oriade Local Council Development Area, Abdulazak Oladele stated the importance of jetties and terminals in his riverine area and promised to work closely with LAGFERRY to improve safety awareness, especially regarding the use of life jackets.

    The Special Advisor to the Governor on the Parastatal Monitoring Office, Ibrahim Obanikoro, commended LAGFERRY for its dedication and innovation.

  • Associations dig solar-powered borehole in Ajeromi-Ifelodun

    Associations dig solar-powered borehole in Ajeromi-Ifelodun

    A solar-powered borehole water has been inaugurated in Tolu community area of Olodi-Apapa, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government by the Junior Chamber International (JCI), Lagos Coral in partnership with RGS Worldwide Ltd and Nedville Emergency Medical Services (NEMS).

    President JCI Lagos Coral, Efemona Ejeh, described the project as one of the achievements of the organisation in ensuring significant impact in local communities.

    “This is a testament of who we are and what we do. We don’t have to wait for the government or anyone to do it. We can partner with people, government, community stakeholders to solve community challenges,” she said.

    According to her, there are more projects JCI is executing including the entrepreneurship programme.

    Ejeh advised residents to take ownership of the project.

    Managing Director RGS worldwide Limited, Joseph Osazuwa, reiterated the company’s commitment to giving back to the community.

    Read Also: Nigeria needs feasible housing policy to tackle deficit – Adeoye

    “We believe we do business in Lagos, and it’s also part of our social corporate responsibility to support our community,” he said.

    According to Osazuwa, access to clean water is essential for sustainable development, and the partnership with JCI will help to address the community’s water needs.

    “Water is life, and without water, we have a lot of diseases. What we are providing is treated water, and it’s solar-driven, so it’s going to make life easy for people,” Osazuwa said.

    Project Chairperson in Tolu Community, Rachael Emeyazia, said that the project was designed after assessing the needs of the community and bringing stakeholders together to implement a solution.

    Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area, Olamilekan Akindipe, hailed the organisation for the project.

    “This is a great initiative as we all know that we need to support the local government and for a body to erect such a laudable project in our local government, it’s something to be happy about,” he said.

  • Ayobo-Ipaja council begins construction of seven roads

    Ayobo-Ipaja council begins construction of seven roads

    By Eniola Shogbesan

    The Chairman of Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area, Lukmon Agbaje, has kicked off the construction of seven strategic roads across the council area.

    This, he said, aimed at boosting infrastructure and improving the quality of life for residents.

    Agbaje reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy through purposeful governance and people-centered projects.

    “Roads are the lifelines of any community. They provide mobility, enhance access to businesses and markets, improve security, promote socio-economic growth, and make life easier for our people. This is why infrastructure remains one of our top priorities,” he stated.

    The roads earmarked for immediate construction include Owonikoko; Victor; Igbogila; Akinola Market Road; Aduloju; Koloba/Unity Road  and Baale road.

    According to the council boss, the roads were carefully selected based on community needs, traffic flow, and their potential to stimulate economic growth across Ayobo-Ipaja.

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    He added that each project will be constructed with proper drainage systems and durable surfacing to ensure sustainability.

    Agbaje also emphasised the importance of community involvement in ensuring the success of the projects.

    He appealed to residents to support the contractors, cooperate with temporary diversions during construction, and adopt a culture of road maintenance to preserve the infrastructure for future generations.

    He hailed the Legislative Arm, political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community stakeholders, the Community Development Committee (CDC), and others for their supports and partnership in the developmental strides of the council.

    Reiterating his administration’s resolve to do more, Agbaje assured residents that this was only the beginning of many laudable initiatives that would be unveiled to transform the council.

    “We have promised, and we are making it happen. With your continuous support and collaboration, we will deliver even beyond expectations,” he said.

  • ‘Education, tool for brighter future’

    ‘Education, tool for brighter future’

    The Olori-Odo of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom, Alhaji Rilwan Yekin, has donated more than 200 General Certificate Examination (GCE) forms to pupils across several communities in Lagos State.

    Beneficiaries were drawn from Apapa, Apapa-Iganmu, Coker-Aguda, Itire-Ikate and Ajeromi-Ifelodun.

    Alhaji Yekin said the gesture was part of his ongoing commitment to youths empowerment.

    He explained that the initiative has opened opportunities for young ones to further their education and contribute meaningfully to society.

    “I remain committed to prioritising the development and aspirations of our younger generation. Education remains a vital tool for securing a brighter future,” he said.

    Read Also: Abiodun to AfCFTA panel in Algiers: Ogun is Nigeria’s top investment destination

    The event was facilitated through the Royal Circle Connect media platform, led by its editor, Prince Tairu Oluwasegun Olaitan.

    Olaitan hailed Yekin for his unwavering dedication to youths’ development, stressing that his impact extended beyond the donation of GCE forms.

    He added that the Olori-Odo’s efforts have consistently promoted access to education, mentorship and positive societal engagement, describing him as a leader who invests in the future of both the kingdom and the nation.

    The ceremony was attended by youth leaders and stakeholders, including the Lagos Central Youth Parliament Senatorial Leader, Hon. (Barr.) Thelmah Obadiah, and the Vice Chairman of NYCN, Comrade Hameed.

  • Apapa-Iganmu distributes free GCE forms

    Apapa-Iganmu distributes free GCE forms

    By Bolatito Akande

    The Chairman of Apapa-Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Jimoh Soliu, will today distribute free General Certificate Examination (GCE) forms to indigent pupils.

    Soliu described education as the “bedrock of any society,” stressing that no child should be deprived of academic opportunities due to financial hardship.

    He noted that the gesture was a practical demonstration of the council’s commitment to building a brighter future through investment in human capital.

    “Financial constraints should never hinder a child’s pursuit of knowledge. By providing these free GCE forms, we are taking a tangible step towards ensuring that our talented young minds have the tools they need to succeed,” he said.

    He recalled that the council recently organised free summer holiday coaching classes for both primary and secondary school pupils, alongside the distribution of exercise books, as part of efforts to foster academic excellence within the council.

    Read Also: Tinubu working assiduously to engender responsible borrowing to address Nigeria’s public debt – Speaker Abbas

    Soliu urged them to embrace the opportunity with determination, resilience, and focus. He advised them to strive for excellence in their studies, assuring them that the community remains committed to their success.

    He also commended parents and guardians for their sacrifices and charged them to remain actively involved in their children’s education while instilling values of hard work, integrity, and perseverance.

    The council boss used the occasion to appreciate the Council Manager, Mr. Lateef Badmus, and the Head of Department (HOD) Education, Mr. Olalekan Jinadu, for their roles in making the programme a success.

    He reiterated his administration’s commitment to initiating more educational support programmes, emphasizing that no child in Apapa-Iganmu should be left behind in the pursuit of Academic excellence.

  • ‘Lagos committed to National Social Register’

    ‘Lagos committed to National Social Register’

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the state remains committed to advancing social protection programmes through the National Social Register (NSR) as a tool to reach vulnerable households.

    Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Sam Egube, gave the assurance at a one-day stakeholder engagement with the theme: “Advancing Social Protection through the National Social Register.”

    He commended President Bola Tinubu for repositioning the NSR as a credible platform for delivering interventions.

    Sanwo-Olu noted that Lagos State had domesticated the operations of the NSR under its Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

    “The register is not just a database; it is a lifeline for millions of Nigerians. I will like to commend our great leader.

    “Lagos is aligning with this vision by ensuring the system is strengthened, transparent and accountable. The Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning is ensuring that all residents especially the vulnerable residents are registered,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    National Coordinator, National Social Safety-Net Coordinating Office, Ms. Funmi Olotu, said the register had become one of the world’s largest social protection databases with more than 19 million households captured and more than 70 million individuals, making it one of the largest social protection databases in the world.

    She said that the recent integration of the National Identification Number (NIN) into the register was transforming it into a more reliable and inclusive system.

    “As of August 31, a total of 7.68 million household records had been updated across the 36 states. From these, over 9.5 million NINs were recorded, with more than 8.3 million successfully validated,” Olotu said.

    She described  the achievement as remarkable.

    “The real story behind the numbers is that mothers in rural areas, displaced households and young Nigerians seeking opportunities are beginning to see a government that recognises their struggles and is deliberate about supporting them,” she said.

    A senator representing Lagos West, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule, described the register as collective commitment to building a more inclusive, equitable, and resilient platform.

    She stated that the gathering marks a critical step in the government’s desire to reach the poor and vulnerable population in Nigeria.

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    She emphasized that NSR, is not merely a database but the backbone of the nation’s capacity to deliver aid with transparency, monitoring, and respect for human dignity.

    Dr Badamasi Lawal, Chief Executive Officer, National Social Investment Programme Agency, said that the NSR was the cornerstone of social protection in Nigeria.

    He said that subsidy removal, inflationary pressures and widening inequalities had made social protection not a choice but a necessity.

    “We cannot achieve inclusive growth if the poor and vulnerable remain unseen. The register is not a static database but a living instrument of hope. Collaboration between  the federal and state governments, partners and civil society, will ensure that no Nigerian is left behind,” Lawal said.

    He added that aligning interventions with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola  Tinubu would guarantee fairness, accountability and impact in service delivery.

    In his goodwill message, the Alara of Ilara Kingdom, Dr Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, said that social protection should be seen as a duty of the state and society rather than an act of benevolence.

    “Giving to the poor is not charity, it is social responsibility,” he said.

    The royal father said that Nigeria’s social contract must be anchored on inclusiveness, adding