The Nation Newspaper

Category: Grassroots

  • Ex-CDA chief declares for Bariga chairman position

    Ex-CDA chief declares for Bariga chairman position

    Former Akoka Community Development Association (Akoka CDA) Chairman, Segun Adesanya has declared his interest to contest for the chairmanship seat of Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

    Adesanya said he was driven by a sense of responsibility to contribute his quota to the development of Bariga after a deep reflection and extensive consultations with stakeholders.

    He lauded the administration of Hon. Kolade Alabi for its giant strides, and also described his entrance into the race as a movement to further place Bariga on the path of sustainable development.

    In February 2024, Adesanya was appointed by the chairman of Bariga Local Council, Hon. Kolade Alabi David, to chair the 16-man committee to work on various forms of palliative measures for Bariga residents.

    Adesanya, a top contender is set to jostle for the All Progressives Congress (APC) party ticket alongside other contestants including: Hon. Adegboyega Lookman Bari Salau, Hon. Taiwo Olasunkanmi Lawal, ESV. Adetunji Abiodun Atunrase, Hon. Oladiran Fowowe, Omooba Adedolapo Adeyemi, Mayowa Adeoye Oriade-1, and others.

    Read Also: Tinubu approves N80 billion for Alau Dam reconstruction

    In a statement, Adesanya said: “As a dedicated and passionate individual with a deep understanding of the needs and challenges of our community, I am confident that I possess the leadership skills, vision, and commitment required to drive meaningful growth and development in our beloved Bariga.

    “My vision for Bariga is one of prosperity, peace, and progress. I aim to create an enabling environment that fosters economic growth, improves the quality of life for all residents, and positions Bariga as a model for sustainable development in Lagos State.”

    Speaking on plans for Bariga, he explained that: “As Chairman, my key objectives will include:

    “Infrastructure Development: Upgrade and expand our infrastructure, including roads, drainage systems, and public buildings, to support the growing needs of our community.

    “Economic Empowerment: Implement initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic empowerment, particularly for our youth and vulnerable populations.   

    “Social Welfare: Enhance the delivery of social services, including healthcare, education, and social protection programs, to ensure that all residents have access to the support they need.

    “Environmental Sustainability: Implement measures to protect and preserve our environment, promote sustainable practices, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

    “Leadership: Proven track record of leadership and management experience, with a ability to inspire and motivate teams.

    “Community Engagement: Strong connections with the Bariga community, with a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of our residents.

    “Strategic Planning: Ability to develop and implement strategic plans, with a focus on delivering results and making a positive impact.”

    The Lagos State Electoral Independent Commission (LASIEC) will conduct elections across the 20 local governments and the 37 LCDAs across the state this year.

  • Ikorodu kicks off building of 762km drainage

    Ikorodu kicks off building of 762km drainage

    Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government Area, Wasiu Adesina, has kicked-off the construction of drains on an ancient road at Itunla in Ajina area of Ikorodu, Lagos State.

    Speaking at the event, Adesina said the project, a covered drainage system of about 762 kilometres on both sides of the road, should be completed within 12 weeks.

    According to the chairman, the Itunla road is a very important ancient road leading to the first market (Ajina), mosque, and the traditional institution where the first traditional ruler of Ikorodu was produced.

    “I am very happy to commence this important project because the road is the heart of Ikorodu. It is an ancient road, and first settlement area of Ikorodu traditional institution, including the first palace of the Ikorodu traditional ruler, known as Awofin.

    “Because of the historical importance of the road, it is important for us to improve on it and it is going to be completed as scheduled,” he said.

    Adesina also pledged to hand over the completed project to the Community Development Association (CDA) for proper maintenance.

    He stressed that the project was a dividend of democracy, and urged residents to go out enmasse to register for the All Progressives Congress (APC) as payback.

    The council chairman said that he would fix a Federal Government borehole project in the community and organise empowerment programmes for women.

    Read Also: FG threatens to take over incomplete Lagos-Ibadan expressway sections April

    “I promise to obtain free Joint Admission Matriculation Board (JAMB) forms for youths interested in furthering their education.

    “This project will be handed over to the CDA after completion, because taxpayers’ money was used for the project. I urge residents to come out enmasse for APC membership registration as a pay back of what has been given to them.

    “Before my tenure expires, I will obtain free JAMB forms for the youth, empower the women and reconstruct the council fence to international standard,” Adesina promised.

    A community Leader, Jubril Agbaje, expressed gratitude to the chairman for ensuring that residents of the area enjoyed the dividends of democracy.

    Agbaje noted that such gestures were “long overdue” for the area that warehoused all the historical institutions of Ikorodu.

    Chairman, Itunla Youth Association, Kazeem Atunwon, promised that youths would ensure optimum protection and safety of materials and contractors deployed for the

  • Council poll: Ikorodu gains momentum as PDP stalwart joins APC

    Council poll: Ikorodu gains momentum as PDP stalwart joins APC

    In a bid to maintain the stronghold of the All Progressives Congress(APC) ahead of the Local Government Elections, a former stalwart of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Abdulkareem Shittu, has defected to the APC in the Ikorodu.

    The event, held at the APC LGA Secretariat in Oke Ota-Ona, Ikorodu, was attended by a host of APC leaders and key figures.

    Dignitaries such as the former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, APC Ikorodu Division Chairman,Tijani Olasukanmi, and APC leaders from across the region were present to welcome Shittu into the party.

    In a significant moment, Prince Ogunleye handed the APC flag to Shittu, symbolising his official admission into the party. Party faithfuls and Shittu’s loyal supporters were present in large numbers, showing their unwavering commitment to their leader’s new political path.

    Read Also: Tinubu approves N80 billion for Alau Dam reconstruction

    Shittu expressed his gratitude to the APC leadership in the constituency for the warm reception, emphasising that his decision to join the party was driven by his desire to contribute to the development of Ikorodu and Lagos State. He praised the APC for its commitment to good governance, transparency, and accountability, aligning with his own values and vision for the division.

    “I want to assure you all that my commitment to this party and to our shared goals is unwavering. I am here to serve, to build, and to work with every one of you to ensure that the promises we’ve made to our people are fulfilled”, he said.

    He further assured the people of Ikorodu that he would remain a loyal and dedicated member. He vowed to work tirelessly in promoting the party’s ideals and goals.

    The dignitaries who attended the event, noted that Shittu’s defection to the APC is widely viewed as a significant turning point in Ikorodu’s political landscape, with many anticipating its far-reaching impact.

    They asserted that his vast experience, commitment to community development, and proven leadership, is expected to be a valuable asset to the APC, strengthening its position in the division.

  • Lagos LG polls: Adesanya declares for Bariga council chairman position 

    Lagos LG polls: Adesanya declares for Bariga council chairman position 

    Former Akoka Community Development Association (Akoka CDA) Chairman, Segun Adesanya has declared his interest to contest for the chairmanship seat of Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA). 

    Adesanya said he was driven by a sense of responsibility to contribute his quota to the development of Bariga after a deep reflection and extensive consultations with stakeholders. 

    He lauded the administration of Hon. Kolade Alabi for its giant strides, and also described his entrance into the race as a movement to further place Bariga on the path of sustainable development. 

    In February 2024, Adesanya was appointed by the chairman of Bariga Local Council, Hon. Kolade Alabi David, to chair the 16-man committee to work on various forms of palliative measures for Bariga residents. 

    Read Also; Edo poll dispute: PDP, APC chairmen hopeful of positive outcome

    Adesanya, a top contender is set to jostle for the All Progressives Congress (APC) party ticket alongside other contestants including: Hon. Adegboyega Lookman Bari Salau, Hon. Taiwo Olasunkanmi Lawal, ESV. Adetunji Abiodun Atunrase, Hon. Oladiran Fowowe, Omooba Adedolapo Adeyemi, Mayowa Adeoye Oriade-1, and others. 

    In a statement, Adesanya said: “As a dedicated and passionate individual with a deep understanding of the needs and challenges of our community, I am confident that I possess the leadership skills, vision, and commitment required to drive meaningful growth and development in our beloved Bariga.

    “My vision for Bariga is one of prosperity, peace, and progress. I aim to create an enabling environment that fosters economic growth, improves the quality of life for all residents, and positions Bariga as a model for sustainable development in Lagos State.”

    Speaking on plans for Bariga, he explained that: “As Chairman, my key objectives will include:

    “Infrastructure Development: Upgrade and expand our infrastructure, including roads, drainage systems, and public buildings, to support the growing needs of our community.

    “Economic Empowerment: Implement initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic empowerment, particularly for our youth and vulnerable populations.    

    “Social Welfare: Enhance the delivery of social services, including healthcare, education, and social protection programs, to ensure that all residents have access to the support they need.

    “Environmental Sustainability: Implement measures to protect and preserve our environment, promote sustainable practices, and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

    “Leadership: Proven track record of leadership and management experience, with a ability to inspire and motivate teams.

    “Community Engagement: Strong connections with the Bariga community, with a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of our residents.

    “Strategic Planning: Ability to develop and implement strategic plans, with a focus on delivering results and making a positive impact.”

    The Lagos State Electoral Independent Commission (LASIEC) will conduct elections across the 20 local governments and the 37 LCDAs across the state this year.

  • Mushin presents appropriation bill to lawmakers

    Mushin presents appropriation bill to lawmakers

    • By Chidinma Nnamdi and Sophie Ochia

    The Chairman of Mushin Local Government, Emmanuel Bamigboye, has presented the 2025 appropriation bill to the legislative arms.

    The bill tagged “Budget of Consolidation,” Bamigboye said, was aimed to complete all ongoing projects.

    He promised not to leave any debt for the next administration.

    According to Bamigboye, the second tenure is coming to an end, and the focus is on building a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Mushin for all.

    He said that the budget size for this year is N10.3 billion, with 60 per cent allocated to capital expenditure and 40 per cent to recurrent expenditure.

    “Key highlights of the 2025 budget include infrastructure, urban development, completion of ongoing road projects, drainage amongst others,” he stated.

    Read Also: First Lady Tinubu unveils Gov Abdulrazaq’s signature projects in Kwara

    Bamigboye assured that every naira will be utilised judiciously, reflecting on the achievements of the past year, including infrastructure, road construction, and skill acquisition.

    Leader of Legislative House, Olawale Ishola Ayegbayo, said the budget would go through various stages, including five readings, before being passed.

    He emphasised the need for community development.

    According to him, the legislative arm will monitor the budget performance on a quarterly basis to ensure that it is being implemented effectively.

    “The presentation is a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to the people, and the legislative arm is hopeful that the administration will finish strong, having done well already. With a focus on infrastructure, urban development, and education, the 2025 budget is expected to have a positive impact on the community,” he said.

  • ‘LAGFERRY showcasing Lagos beauty’

    ‘LAGFERRY showcasing Lagos beauty’

    The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Lagos State Ferry Services (LAGFERRY), AbdoulBaq Ladi Balogun, has said the agency is utilising the waterways to showcase the beauty of Lagos.

    He made this known during boat ride event tagged: ‘Ignite Lagos 2.0 Water Steeze’ edition.

    Balogun explained that the programme was to welcome Lagosians to a new year, saying that it was a yearly programme showcasing the beauty of Lagos to the world.

    He stated that LAGFERRY is bringing entertainment and tourism to the waterways.

    “Apart from the regular transportation on the waterways, transporting goods and people in Lagos, one can actually have fun in a relaxed atmosphere while on board a boat on the waterways.

    “We are demonstrating to the world that Lagos State is an ideal spot for entertainment and tourism, but this time on the waterways,” he said.

    He noted that the success of the first edition had translated into several memoranda of understanding and business interests, as private sector individuals had approached them for collaboration.

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    “I assure you that by next year’s edition, the private sector would have taken it over. When we had International Women’s Day in March 2021, the 2022 and 2023 editions were taken over by the private sector, and it has continued to this day,” he explained.

    According to him, Lagos was doing much to tap into that huge potential in the marine economy.

    This, he said, was to strategically position Lagos Ferry Services, taking care of the commercial end of water transportation.

    Balogun noted that ever since Lagos waterways had witnessed a revolution in terms of watercraft equipment, jetty development, and terminal building, and even equipment.

    “The boat we are presenting to the world today is actually built in Lagos and is comparable to any boat one can see all over the world in terms of safety gadgets and other things that make for a good sailing experience.

    “This is exactly what we are offering to the world through Lagos State Ferry Services,” he said.

  • Isolo partners agency for medical outreach

    Isolo partners agency for medical outreach

    In a bid to advance its robust healthcare policy, the Isolo Local Council Development Area, has teamed up with the Lagos State Health District VI to organise a free medical outreach for residents.

    The event which was held at the Oluseye/Aina Junction in Ishagatedo/Ire-Akari Ward came on the heels of a similar programme held across various locations in the ward to consolidate the council’s relentless efforts in the health sector.

    Residents from far and near came out in their numbers to make the most of the free healthcare program by way of checking their vitals such as sugar level, and blood pressure among others as well as make consultation with the doctors and benefit from free medications.

    Addressing the beneficiaries, Health educator, Miss Testimony Adeyeye, from the council’s health department, discussed lifestyle that could help them stay healthy and the preferability of Primary Health Care (PHC) centres to General or Teaching hospitals for certain ailments or health challenges.

    Read Also: First Lady Tinubu unveils Gov Abdulrazaq’s signature projects in Kwara

    On her part, Mrs Oloruntoyin Adebayo-Ige, the Director Community Health Service, Lagos Health District VI, advised the beneficiaries extensively on the need to ensure healthy dietary practices and visit primary healthcare facilities to have any unusual symptoms diagnosed adding that the PHCs are designed to cater for their health needs.

    The council boss, Adebayo Olasoju, said ensuring quality healthcare service to make life abundant for residents has been one of his administration’s focus with frequent ‘Care for the elderly program, construction of a PHC in Alagbeji Ward, upgrade of Ilasamaja PHC, partnership with NGOs to organise health mission among other activities.

    Some of the beneficiaries lauded Olasoju for further domesticating healthcare delivery while many others thumbed him up for the opportunity of enlightenment dished out by the health workers.

  • Kosofe launches 4th edition of free UTME

    Kosofe launches 4th edition of free UTME

    Kosofe Local Government in Lagos State has launched the fourth edition of its free Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) registration initiative.

    Chief Press Secretary to the council chairman, Oluwole Obisanya, said this in a statement on Monday in Lagos.

    He noted that the initiative demonstrates the unwavering commitment to advancing academic excellence within the community.

    He said: “I am pleased to announce the commencement of our fourth edition of free JAMB forms distribution under the Kosofe Edu-Support Initiative, #KosofeConcern.”

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    He noted that beneficiaries must be residents of Kosofe Local Government Area.

    He added that to be fair with the exercise, beneficiaries would go through screening to ascertain their eligibility.

    “The distribution details and eligibility criteria include: beneficiaries must be residents of Kosofe LG and must be 16 years of age or above before November 2023.

    “SS1 and SS2 students are not eligible and parents or guardians are not allowed in the screening venue.

    “The required documents for the free forms include; Photocopy of NIN card, photocopy of LASRA card, also, photocopy of O’Level result,” he said.

    The exercise will take place at the Kosofe Local Government Secretariat Hall between January 29 and 30.

  • Adebule, Suarau inaugurate Iba LCDA admin block

    Adebule, Suarau inaugurate Iba LCDA admin block

    •Council chief gives 100 POS machines,

    The senator representing Lagos West District, Dr Idiat Adebule; former member of House of Representatives, Toyin Suarau and Oniba of Iba, Oba Sulaimon Ashade have inaugurated an administrative block built by the Chairman of Iba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Jubril Yisa.

    The trio commended the council chief for completing the project.

    The administrative block was named in honour of the late Akanbi Suarau, former Apex Leader, Badagry Division

    The council boss at the event presented 100 Point of Sale (POS) machines to indigenes.

    Yisa also donated N50,000 cash palliatives to 300 aged women, widows.

    Yisa said the move is a significant step forward in their collective efforts to promote economic growth, support local entrepreneurship and improve the lives of our people.

    He said the gesture was to empower small scale business owners with the tools and resources they need to succeed.

    “We also feel the pains of our widows, aged and indigent people at this critical time considering the high cost of living, hardship among others.

    “To this end, cash palliatives of N50,000 will be given to 300 aged people, widows and indigents of Iba. All these in essence are to alleviate and bring relief to our aged, widows and indigent people,” he said.

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    The council boss noted that this initiative is expected to have a profound impact on the local economy, creating jobs, stimulating growth, and reducing poverty.

    “The POS empowerment programme will provide 100 beneficiaries with the technology and support necessary to facilitates seamless transactions, expand their customer base, and increase their revenue. In the long run, this initiative tends to create jobs and reduce poverty among people.

    “It is my belief, that this Initiative is expected to have a profound impact on our local economy, creating jobs, stimulating growth, and reducing poverty. We believe that by supporting our Small Scale Business Owners, we can unlock the full potential of our community and create a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come,” he added.

    According to Yisa, the Administrative Building is more than just a physical structure; “it is a symbol of their commitment to creating a conducive environment for governance, administration, and community development.

    “This building will serves as a vibrant hub for various activities, including training, workshops, and seminars, all designed to enhance the capacity of our people and drive economic progress, by providing a dedicated space for governance and administration,” he said.

  • Lagos Mainland residents raise concern over waste disposal

    Lagos Mainland residents raise concern over waste disposal

    By Chidinma Nnamdi

    Residents of Lagos Mainland have raised urgent concerns over waste disposal and access to clean water in their community.

    They stated this at the first Community Stakeholder Engagement meeting organised by Lagos State Health District IV in collaboration with the Lagos Mainland Local Government.

    The quarterly stakeholder engagement is aimed at discussing issues affecting the community and proferring solutions to them.

    Highlighting the poor waste management system in their community with a single central waste disposal site, the residents urged the government to help them fumigate their environment and provide a solution to their waste and refuse disposal problem at no cost.

    “If you check around us now, you will notice flies around. This is because we don’t have a means of refuse disposal. We want to plead with Lagos State Government to come to our aid at no incurred expense on our end”, one stakeholder lamented.

    Another resident said: “ On the issue of water, we do not have any active free water distribution system; the borehole system is also not evenly distributed because not everybody can afford it. They should please help us look into it and provide clean pipe borne water”, he expressed.

    Responding to their concerns, the Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Health District IV, Dr. Abimbola Bowale, assured attendees that the government would look into the issues raised.

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    “We appreciate your cooperation and will address these key problems to improve your living conditions,” he said.

    He also seized the opportunity to inform the attendees about the upcoming oral polio immunisation, a proactive measure to safeguard Nigerians against polio outbreaks reported in other countries.

    He said: “The outreach is an outbreak response and a proactive measure to ensure that we do not have cases of polio in Nigeria. Some countries recently had a wide polio variant outbreak and we know that Lagos is densely populated, so it is a proactive measure. The vaccination is for all and sundry in all the cities across Lagos State, expect our health workers and officers to come to your homes, marketplaces and hospitals to attend to you and your children”, he added.

    Dr Bowale clarified that the exercise is a  collaboration of multiple agencies such as the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, World Health Organisation (WHO) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), among others for children aged 0-5 across Lagos State, urging parents to cooperate with health officials during the exercise.

    “Parents should please bring out their children aged 0-5 to get vaccinated when our health care workers visit”, he pleaded.