The Nation Newspaper

Category: Grassroots

  • Olasoju begins rebuilding of Aswani Road

    Olasoju begins rebuilding of Aswani Road

    The Chairman of Isolo Local Council Development Area, Adebayo Olasoju, has kicked off the reconstruction of popular Aswani road.

    The ground-breaking of the road called Emzor Way was done on Thursday.

    The ‘Trunk B’ road which stretches from the tip of the Mile 2/Badagry Express Way service lane by Five-Star Bus-stop to Osolo Way has been subject of public discourse lately due to its dilapidated state; inhibiting vehicular movement and haulage needs of companies situated on the axis.

    While addressing his guests at the well-attended ceremony held at the road’s entrance off Osolo way, Olasoju maintained that his government could not but heed the cry of road users who have had to endure its deteriorating condition in recent times regardless of the category of roads it falls.

    He said: “Everybody will say Aswani/Emzor Road is in bad shape, some will even call my name on the radio, it’s close to the council but what I’ll say is; most people cannot even differentiate between a state and local government road so when we met at our executive council meeting, we all agreed that this road must be reconstructed. We sought approval and the governor graciously did that and today (Thursday) we are here kicking off the reconstruction of popular Aswani road called Emzor Road.”

    He went on to discuss the project’s time frame as well the expected standard of job vis-a-vis the 21st century amenities that the road has in its design.

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    Olasoju appealed to the road users to bear with the council while the construction lasts, stating: “It is your road. It is our road. Everyone plying this road should bear with us while the reconstruction lasts. The police, LASTMA, LNSC and others have assured us of effective traffic management on Osolo way while the reconstruction is on. I’ll appeal to us to be patient”.

    Former All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State Chairman Otunba Henry Ajomale rated the council boss high for his transformational strides as he called on corporate organizations including the ones on Emzor way corridor to improve on their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) since nation-building requires all hands being on deck.

    Otunba Ajomale said: “It’s a herculean task for a local government to decide to do this type of road. It’s not easy, it’s too big, it’s too large. It is only the state and federal governments that can undertake such project. But we thank God that Isolo LCDA ably led by our chairman is confronting this road head-on and I think it’s a very great achievement for someone to have embarked on this type of road.

    “I appeal to the companies around here to cooperate with our chairman to ensure the success of this road. It’s for their own use because it’s a road that will enhance their commercial activities. I expect that they will assist the local government in completing the road so that this project can be completed in time.”

    Representative of Chellmarms Emmanuel Asemota, who spoke on behalf of the companies within the corridor, lauded the council chairman for prioritizing the project as he assured that the corporate organizations will join hands in every way possible with the council authority to see to the seamless and timely completion of the project.

  • Lagos, Access Bank partner on 704 housing units in Ikorodu

    Lagos, Access Bank partner on 704 housing units in Ikorodu

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to addressing housing deficit in the state.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke yesterday at Lagos House, Ikeja during the presentation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the construction of 704 new housing units of two-bedroom apartments in Odo Nla, Ikorodu, facilitated by the Lagos State Government and Access Bank PLC.

    The housing project, which is going to be 44 blocks of 16 units per block of two-bedroom flats, is expected to be completed in the next two years with complementing features like a cinema house, gym center, playground, and security network, among others.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu described the partnership as part of efforts to provide affordable, decent homes for residents of the state, especially the low-income earners.

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    The governor noted that addressing the housing deficit requires bold steps initiatives, and partnerships with the private sector, adding that his administration has streamlined approval processes and introduced several incentives to further demonstrate the government’s commitment to making Lagos an attractive destination for housing investments.

    He said: “Guided by our T.H.E.M.E.S.+ Agenda, we have implemented a range of initiatives to tackle this challenge. Over the past five years, we have delivered 21 housing estates across low, medium, and premium categories, providing homes to thousands of Lagosians. While these achievements are commendable, we recognise that much more needs to be done.

    “In collaboration with Access Bank PLC, we are embarking on a transformative housing project that will deliver the first batch of 704 units of two-bedroom apartments at Odo-Nla in Ikorodu. This initiative is designed specifically for low-income Lagosians, offering affordable mortgage terms: a down payment of just 10 percent, a single-digit interest rate, and a repayment period of up to 20 years. This is not just about building houses; it is about creating homes, fostering communities, and laying the foundation for better lives.

    “The economic multiplier effect of this project cannot be overstated. It will stimulate massive engagement across the housing construction value chain, including artisans, suppliers, and building professionals. By doing so, it not only addresses housing needs but also creates jobs and drives economic growth.

    “Our commitment to addressing the housing deficit is unwavering. Beyond the Odo-Nla project, we have other ongoing housing developments at Sangotedo Phase 2, Ita Marun in Epe, Ajara in Badagry, Ibeshe Phase 2 in Ikorodu, and Egan Igando Clusters 2 and 3. These projects collectively represent our determination to provide lasting solutions to the housing needs of Lagosians.

  • Ikorodu West holds budget retreat

    Ikorodu West holds budget retreat

    The Chairman of Ikorodu West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Otunba Kazeem Sulaimon, has promised to complete all ongoing projects and initiate new ones before his tenure ends.

    This, he said, would make life more meaningful for the people of the council.

    Sulaimon spoke during the Budget Retreat at AM2PM Hotels, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

     He said the exercise was to review the performance of the council in the outgoing year 2024 with a view to draw out plans for the coming year 2025.

    The council boss urged council officials to “take this exercise seriously as it is the foundation for everything we want to do for our people next year. As a financial expert, I want to make sure we get it right at this level because you cannot build something on nothing”.

    The Council Manager, Mr Nurudeen Tobun, who has been spearheading various innovative ideas to reposition the council, said: “Year 2025 will be a great year for us by God’s grace. Issues such as delay in the availability of bills to distribute have been taken care of and tools for staff members to work with will be available for them in good time”.

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    The Head of Planning, Budget and Statistics Department, Mrs Adesegun, urged those in attendance to put the interest of the public first in their programmes and activities for the coming year 2025.

    Dr. Olusoga Badejo, a retired Director in the state civil service spoke on Budget Discipline and the Local Government Autonomy: The Issues, Challenges and Prospects.

    He painted a picture of the consequences and likely effects of the local government autonomy judgment by Supreme Court on budgeting, finance and administration on local governments going forward.

    Chief Executive Officer of Dacaconsults, Bayo Ayoade, also facilitated a session on the Challenges that hinders the increase of Ikorodu West LCDA Internally Generated Revenue and the way forward.

    Ayoade emphasized the need for both the political and administrative staff of the LCDA to plan ahead, noting that the local government job is time-bound.

    “You either have eight years or 35 years to do whatever you want to do before you will have to exit the system so make sure you develop yourself and plan for the future because it just a matter of time before it catches up with you” he said.

  • Ikosi-Isheri empowers 100 youths with ICT skill

    Ikosi-Isheri empowers 100 youths with ICT skill

    By Ebube Ojukwu

    Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has empowered 100 youths with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills.

    Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, Princess Samiat Bada, said the initiative is part of the LCDA’s broader vision to equip youths with the tools they need to succeed and contribute meaningfully to the society.

    “The world today is driven by technology, and it is our responsibility to ensure that our young people are equipped with the necessary skills in this digital age,” she said.

    The beneficiaries were trained in various aspects ranging from computer basic excel, graphics and motion pictures, cybersecurity,  digital marketing, production design, data analysis to Web development.

    Bada commended the beneficiaries for navigating the challenges, embracing the lessons and building the skills necessary to thrive on the increasingly digital world.

    “I want to emphasise that today is not just a conclusion, it is the beginning of a new chapter. As you step out into the world, I encourage you to harness the skills you have acquired and to remain steadfast in your pursuit of knowledge and self-improvement.  The journey ahead may not always be easy but with determination and resilience you will overcome any obstacle you encounter,” she said.

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    Special Adviser to the chairman on ICT, Seyi Eniola, thanked the council boss for sponsoring the ICT acquisition skills programme.

    “This is truly a collaborative effort, and I thank the facilitators, stakeholders, and students for their roles in actualising this initiative. The chairman’s dedication has been instrumental in making this programme possible. I urge the students to make the most of this rare opportunity, as these skills are highly valuable and sought after in the job market,” he said.

    ICT Lead Instructor, Sunday Agwaze, urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the skills acquired.

    “The skills training was carefully structured to facilitate easy learning, and the programme’s impact will soon be felt across the community as it would ensure economic development amongst the participants,” he said.                                                                                       A beneficiary Samuel Ajase, thanked the chairman for empowering him through the programme and promised to build on the experience by acquiring additional skills to enhance his financial stability.

  • Apatira attributes council’s achievements to residents’ support

    Apatira attributes council’s achievements to residents’ support

    By Naimat Dauda and Chidinma Nnamdi

    Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has held Stakeholders’ Meeting on 2025 budget.

    The event, which took place at the Council Secretariat Hall, brought together community members, leaders, and other stakeholders.

    Chairman of the council, Dr Ahmed Apatira, hailed attendees for their support, which he noted had significantly contributed to the council’s achievements.

    He said: “It is imperative to mention that your contributions, opinions, suggestions, and observations to move this local council development project area forward are highly acknowledged and appreciated. That is why we have always listened to the voices of our people by implementing mega empowerment initiatives to reduce economic hardship.”

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    Highlighting the council’s accomplishments over the past year, Apatira mentioned key projects, including the construction of the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Ultra-Modern Market and the provision of an ICT centre.

    “We have been able to meet the yearnings and aspirations of our teaming populace through the provision of infrastructure, mega financial empowerment programmes, quality primary education, bursary awards, functional primary health centres, daily meals for pupils, youth development programmes, and sustainable environmental initiatives,” he stated.

    Apatira urged residents to fulfill their civic duties by promptly paying rates and bills, noting that such cooperation is essential for the council to complete ongoing projects and initiate new ones.

    “It is our desire to conclude ongoing projects and do more to improve the standard of living for our people. All this can only be achieved with your cooperation through prompt payment of rates and bills as and when due,” he concluded.

    The Community Development Committees (CDC) Chairman of Itire-Ikate, Adelana Adeshina, praised Apatira’s leadership.

    He said: “Apatira was rated 95 per cent by the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) for his impactful leadership, including staff vehicle allocations, and ongoing road, drainage, and streetlight projects to combat flooding. Residents and stakeholders commended his commitment to community needs.”

    The council’s Supervisor for Budget, Adewale Oyefeso, said the council boss had implemented multiple palliative programmes to alleviate hardship in the area, including financial assistance of up to N100,000 per individual and a school feeding programme for pupils in government primary schools.“

  • Mushin holds stakeholders’ forum on budget

    Mushin holds stakeholders’ forum on budget

    By Naimat Dauda and Rofiat Aderounmu

    The Chairman of Mushin Local Government, Emmanuel Bamigboye, has said Stakeholders’ Consultative Forum on Budget was designed to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and collaboration in shaping the council’s development priorities for the coming year.

    Bamigboye noted that it provides an opportunity for the council to listen to residents’ concerns, suggestions, and expectations.

    “We take every suggestion seriously, as it has been our practice. During our annual budget retreat, we review all questions and proposals to determine what is achievable. Any issues or damages brought to our attention will be addressed,” he said.

    The council boss urged residents to pay their rates and taxes, adding that these contributions are vital for the council to meet its goals and allocate funds responsibly.

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    “We plead with our people to fulfill their civic responsibilities by paying their rates and taxes. This will enable us to meet expectations and allocate public funds appropriately and transparently, as we have promised,” he stated.

    Spokesperson for the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) party, Seyi Oladejo, commended the council for its outstanding performance.

    According to him, “The administration has done remarkably well across sectors like education, healthcare, markets, and sports. We are here to reaffirm our support and encourage them to continue their excellent work, ensuring all projects are completed”.

    A lawmaker, Toyin Fayinka, appealed to residents to support the administration’s efforts by refraining from damaging public infrastructure.

    He said: “I want to appeal to the people of Mushin to continue offering their support and actively demonstrate their commitment. Please avoid damaging these roads so that the development efforts can be sustained for everyone’s benefit”.

  • Orile-Agege lifts 233 youths with N23m

    Orile-Agege lifts 233 youths with N23m

    Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has empowered 233 youths with vocational skills and a startup capital of N23.3 million.

    The empowerment initiative came to light at the second graduation held for trainees at Orile-Agege Vocational Training Centre in Lagos.

    The graduands were trained in various fields, including catering, tailoring, hairdressing, barbing, computer operations, makeup artistry, Gele tying, and pedicure.

    Chairman of the council, Johnson Babatunde expressed his administration’s commitment to creating opportunities for self-reliance and community growth.

    Babatunde stated that each of the 233 graduates will receive N100,000 to help build up their skills and equip them.

    “In addition, the top performer in each vocational category will be awarded brand new tools to further their craft. This investment is not just financial; it is a commitment to your future.”

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    According to him, the council prioritised educational development and empowerment of youths.

    He added that over the past years, his administration has implemented various initiatives, including the distribution of GCE and JAMB forms, equipping schools with modern facilities, rehabilitating educational infrastructure, and providing essential learning materials among others.

    “Over the past seven years, we have launched numerous initiatives aimed at equipping our young people with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world and these efforts earned the administration a Merit Award from Education District 1”, he said.

    The council boss lauded instructors, tutors and stakeholders for their endless efforts in achieving and impacting knowledge in the youth.

    Babatunde urged the graduands to seize the opportunities presented to them and contribute positively to their community.

    “Your success is not just a personal victory; it reflects the potential of our entire community,” he said.

  • Foundation gives scholarships to students

    Foundation gives scholarships to students

    By Ebube Ojukwu and Rofiat Aderounmu

    The Ademola Segun Educational Foundation (ASEF) has awarded scholarships to 10 students in the field of biological science across various institutions.

    The scholarship, established 15 years ago in honour of the Emeritus Professor of Zoology, Ademola Segun, is aimed at promoting science and science education in higher institutions.

    Chairman ASEF Trustees, Adeyemi Amuwo, said the selection criteria for the scholarship include biological science undergraduates in their final year or 300 level, academic excellence and financially challenged.

    “Our selection process is rigorous, and we look for a combination of academic excellence and financial need. Our main essence is to give back; we have had past recipients start giving back by buying JAMB forms for students. That is the impact we want to make, we want to create a ripple effect of kindness and generosity that goes beyond just our foundation,” he said.

    He added: “This award helps them have interest in education because they are brilliant and have financial support. They can concentrate and excel. We are committed to making a positive impact in this specific area, and we believe that our focus will yield the greatest results,” he said.

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    Chief Executive Officer of Solomon Grace International Schools, Grace Ogunseye, emphasized the importance of giving back to the society and investing in the education of young people.

    “The essence of life is about humanity and this scholarship emulates that, as it awards students in tertiary universities who are in need of financial assistance to complete their education. Life is about giving back and so this foundation is everything as it showcases the importance of giving back. In fact God has created us to touch others, service to mankind, to humanity. When we give back, we are not only impacting the lives of others, but we are also fulfilling our purpose as human beings,” she said.

    According to Adebola Segun, the son of the late Prof Ademola Segun, the scholarship has a rich history as his father’s vision for the foundation was driven by a passion for education and a desire to support students in need.

    “The scholarship program had become a vital part of his family’s commitment to education and community development. My father started this when he was 70 years old, 20 years ago if he was alive, he would have been 90. But it’s something that he was very passionate about when he started it, he wanted to ensure that students who were doing well academically but were facing financial difficulties, would have the opportunity to complete their education.

    Secretary ASEF Trustees, Seyi Joseph (SAN), highlighted the significant impact of the scholarship program, to the students and the society.

  • Mushin begins immunisation

    Mushin begins immunisation

    • By Rofiat Aderounmu and Naimat Dauda

    Mushin Local Government has launched an Immunization campaign and distribution of medical supplies to Mushin Genral Hospital and other primary health centres in the community.

    This initiative is one of the councils commitment towards improving residents welfare and public health.

    Speaking during the kicked-off, Chairman of the council, Emmanuel Bamigboye, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to public health, stating the synergy between the council and the state government in sustaining the immunization initiative.

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    He said : “We are here to launch this immunization program and distribute onsumables and drugs to our public health facilities. These resources, purchased with public funds, are meant for the public’s benefit, and we want everyone to know that our hospitals and health centers are here to serve them”.

    Bamgboye encouraged residents to patronize public health facilities for their medical needs and avoid unsafe alternatives.

    “Make sure you go for regular check-ups at the general hospital or PHCs. Sometimes, we even bring healthcare services to people’s doorsteps—markets, workplaces, and community areas, including the palaces. Let’s trust the medical professionals to save lives and reduce avoidable deaths,” He advised.

  • Ojo names building in honour of Senator Adebule

    Ojo names building in honour of Senator Adebule

    • By Ganiyat Mumuni

    The Chairman of Ojo Local Government Area, Rasulu Idowu, has named the newly constructed legislative chamber building in honour of Senator Idiat Adebule who represents Lagos West Senatorial District in the Red Chamber.

    He noted that the christening of “Sen. Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule Legislative Building” is a testament of her active role, proactiveness and diligence in ensuring the district is giving a voice.

    “Her voice resonates our chance to be heard; her continuous effort and dealings is a testament that will not be forgotten in hurry”, he said.

    Idowu emphasized that the building represents a significant milestone in the local government’s journey towards good governance and democratic development.

    He said: “It is a testament to our commitment to providing our esteemed lawmakers with a conducive environment to carry out their legislative duties effectively.

    “This building is more than just a structure; it is a symbol of our collective aspirations for a better future. It is a symbol of our unwavering belief in the power of democracy and the importance of representative governance,” Idowu added.

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     He commended the hard work and dedication of those who contributed to the project, stating that their efforts enhanced the physical infrastructure of the community and strengthened the foundation of democracy.

    The council boss also presented N7.8 billion budget proposal, tagged: “Budget of Progressive Legacy.”

    The budget includes a proposed capital expenditure of N2.398 billion, statutory allocation from the Federal Government projected at N688.3 million, and state-coordinated revenue estimated at N65 million.

    Idowu mentioned that the revenue composition includes an estimated amount of N182 million.

    “This budget will set an indelible mark on the legacy of this administration with its unwavering dedication to impacting lives both in the aspect of infrastructural development and quality service delivery,” he said.

    The council head highlighted some of the prioritized projects and programs for 2025, including the construction of the Executive Council Complex, community roads, recreational sports centers, and office complexes for federal and state agencies.