The Nation Newspaper

Category: Grassroots

  • Adebule distributes fertilisers to farmers in 28 councils

    Adebule distributes fertilisers to farmers in 28 councils

    The senator, representing Lagos West District, Dr Idiat Adebule, has distributed 1,132 bags of fertilisers to farmers in 28 local governments and local councils development areas.

    She said, the gesture, was from the Federal Government.

    Senator Adebule added that the free distribution of ferterlisers is part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment in boosting food production in the country.

    The project, she said, would help ease economic challenges.

    Adebule said: “If you look at the Renewed Hope Agenda, part of the promises made by President Tinubu was to scale up activities in the agricultural area. To keep that promise, the Federal Government under his (Tinubu’s) leadership has released fertilisers to representatives of the people to distribute to farmers in their constituents”.

    She urged the beneficiaries to put the fertilisers into proper use.

    Secretary-General of Conference of 57 local governments and local council development areas and Chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Razaq Ajala, stated that the Federal Government has decided to support the farmers from all the six geo-political zones in order to boost harvest.

    Ajala expressed optimism that this gesture would crash food prices.

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    Vice Chairman, All farmers’ Association of Nigeria, Lagos State chapter, Shakiru Agbayewa, stressed that currently fertilisers cost between N40,000 and N50,000 which farmers couldn’t afford.

    “The Federal Government in its own wisdom has decided to donate the fertilisers to ease the burden of farmers and enhance food production,” he said.

    He hailed the Federal Government for the food security initiative and promised to make good use of the fertilisers received.

    A beneficiary, Oluwatoyin Olufuwa, praised the government and said.

    “They’ve done something great for the farmers because it will help in enhancing food production, qualities of food as well as helping farmers to make more profit,” she said.

    Coordinator for Badagry Farmers, Augustine Onu, stressed that the initiative is a huge one

    “I’ve never seen this kind of distribution done before since I have been a farmer. We haven’t experienced such massive distribution of fertilisers to farmers at local government,” Onu noted.

  • Olasoju gives 7,000 pupils uniforms, bags, other materials

    Olasoju gives 7,000 pupils uniforms, bags, other materials

    •First Lady applauds council boss

    Chairman of Isolo Local Council Development Area in Lagos State, Adebayo Olasoju, has donated uniforms, bags, sandals and other school materials to almost 7,000 pupils in all 14 primary schools in the council.

    The event, tagged, Mega Back-to-School Project, Olasoju said, was to complement the efforts of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s bid to make life easier for Lagosians and to help lessen the burden of parents as a result of the ongoing economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He said: “This undertaking by our administration is to primarily complement our ever-dependable Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in his mission to make life more abundant for the good people of Lagos State. This programme is also our own little way to surmount the challenges faced by parents in meeting their obligation to their wards as a result of the economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu.”

    Olasoju said the initiative was to show his administration’s commitments to giving solid educational background to future leaders.

    “Today’s programme underscores our unwavering commitment to giving our future leaders solid educational foundation,” he said.

    He highlighted completed and ongoing projects which show his administration’s commitments to educational needs of the council’s residents.

    “Permit me to mention our strides in the education sector which include distribution of free GCE and JAMB forms to admission seekers in our council area, yearly bursary award to residents and indigenes of Isolo and among others,” he said.

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    He added that in addition to the over 34 roads his administration has either constructed or rehabilitated other on-going developmental projects across the council include Alagbeji Primary Healthcare Centre, the network of roads in Ajao Estate, Baale Street, Ilasamaja, the re-branding of the council premises and construction of Administrative Block,” he said.

    Wife of the Lagos State Governor Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, represented by the wife of Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mrs Funmi Omotoso, said the initiative was aimed at improving the welfare of the primary school pupils in the council.

    Dr Sanwo-Olu added that the initiative would encourage the return of out- of- school- children to school.

    “This initiative aimed at improving the welfare of our primary school pupils and encouraging out of school children to return to education is not just significant but is a reflection of the commitment of the leadership of Isolo LCDA to a brighter future for our learners. This mega back to school complements the vision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, especially his determination of ensuring that every child learn and grow into a responsible and empowered adult,” she said.

    She added that it would solve, “challenges ranging from financial constraints, lack of resources, to other social economic factors that prevented children from attending schools”

    She added that the initiative would resonates throughout the council and beyond in Lagos State.

  • Bariga Local Council to get Road Maintenance Board, TV, others

    Bariga Local Council to get Road Maintenance Board, TV, others

    • By Sherifdeen Amusa

    Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA) is set to establish Bariga Road Maintenance Board (BRMB), Bariga Television, Bariga Property Board amongst others.

    This was stated at a public hearing on the proposed review of 2021 Bye-laws and the formulation of new laws by the fifth legislative council.

    The event was held at the legislative building in the council secretariat, Bariga.

    Some of the proposed bills include Establishments of Corporations, Property Ventures, and other connected purposes; Establishment of Bariga TV and Establishment of Road Maintenance Board as amended by Bye-laws 2024 and others.

    Chairman of the council, Kolade Alabi, said that the bills were not aimed at stopping the old bills but to give the public the opportunity for inclusivity and create a record to help the decision makers.

    “It is historical and symbolic being the first time that Bariga will harmonise all Bye-laws both old and new into a booklet as legacy for others coming to learn,” he said.

    He added that BRMB would ensure sustainability of all road projects.

    Leader of the House, Temitope Okanlawon, appreciated the council boss for ensuring enabling and conducive environment for the legislators to perform their tasks.

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    Okanlawon stressed that the Bye-laws will have in consideration, all inputs from members of the community.

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) Apex leader, Ademola Olisa, praised Alabi for the numerous projects and the support for the legislative arm in transforming Bariga.

     He also applauded the efforts of the legislative arm in increasing the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and lessening the load on allocation.

    “Any local government that aspires for great development can’t sustain itself through only the allocation,” he said.

  • Ikosi-Ejinrin chair bags chieftaincy title

    Ikosi-Ejinrin chair bags chieftaincy title

    The atmosphere was filled with excitement as the Alayandelu of Odo-Ayandelu Kingdom, Oba Ganiyu Aderibigbe, bestowed a chieftaincy title – Otunba Akogun of Odo-Ayandelu Kingdom, on the Chairman of Ikosi-Ejirin Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Akogun Wale Anomo during his inspection to the community.

    The council boss was conferred with a surprise chieftaincy title while inspecting ongoing construction of the Divisional Headquarters of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) building in Odo-Ayandelu Kingdom.

    The event coincided with his birthday celebration.

    According to the monarch, the honour bestowed on Anomo on his birthday was in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development of Odo-Ayandelu and Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA.

    Oba Aderibigbe praised Anomo’s strategic distribution of projects across the communities, noting that no previous council boss had achieved as much.

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    “The title is a testament to Anomo’s impact, including the provision of a 500kva transformer, construction of the Epe Divisional headquarters of the NSCDC building, and promised community hall. His commitment to rural electrification, education, and citizen support has earned him the respect and admiration of the people,” he explained.

    The monarch promised supports from the people of Odo-Ayandelu for Anomo’s second-term bid as Chairman of Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA.

    Anomo expressed gratitude to the monarch and the Alayandelu-in-Council for the honorary title.

    The council reassured the community that he remains focused on delivering more development projects, describing the title as a recognition and motivation for his continued leadership.

  • Ikosi-Isheri graduates 600 in skill acquisition

    Ikosi-Isheri graduates 600 in skill acquisition

    • By Sherifdeen Amusa

    No fewer than 600 residents of Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA) have graduated from the skill acquisition programmes organised by the council.

    The beneficiaries were trained in various skills ranging from production of home essentials, baking, catering, drink preparation, gele tying, fashion design, leather works, smartphone digital technology, event decoration, to wig production.

    The programme was held in collaboration with SPEED-UP LAGOS, Anti-Poverty Squad at the council’s secretariat.

    Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, Princess Samiat Bada, who lauded the beneficiaries for their perseverance despite the challenges faced, said the event signifies “dreams realised, potential unlocked, and futures brightened.

    “I want you to reflect on the dedication, hard work, and perseverance that brought you to this moment. Completing this programme is no small feat, it required late nights of practice, early mornings of learning, and a commitment to mastering new skills. You have proven that you are capable of transforming challenges into opportunities”, she said.

    She added that the skills learnt would serve as a robust foundation that will contribute positively to the lives of the beneficiaries and the society as a whole.

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    “The skills you have gained will serve as a robust foundation for your future endeavours, whether you choose to start your own business, support your families, or contribute to our community’s growth in meaningful ways.”

    Princess Bada appreciated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the SPEED-UP LAGOS Anti-Poverty Squad for their support and commitment in combating poverty and improving lives in Ikosi-Isheri.

    Director of SPEED-UP LAGOS, Princess Oluwagbemisola Ajetunmobi, urged the beneficiaries to utilise the skills learnt.

    She also appreciated the chairman’s support towards the success of the programme.

    She said the skills were broken down for easy assimilation for the beneficiaries.

    She added that the programme would be taken to all local councils in Lagos.

    She stated that vocational skills that take number of years to learn could be learnt in a short time if broken down.

    Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Waleola Bello, said the beneficiaries were punctual and excited learning the skills.

    She added that the initiative would lead to economic development amongst the participants.

    A beneficiary, Nkechi Brown, thanked the chairman for the opportunity, promised to expand her sources of income by acquiring upskilling.

  • Mushin hosts Bamigboye’s Cup.

    Mushin hosts Bamigboye’s Cup.

    • By Sherifdeen Amusa

    Chairman of Mushin Local Government, Emmanuel Bamigboye, has rewarded winners and participants of the Under 13 Bamigboye’s Cup 2024.

    The final, held at the premises of the Secretariat had Ward A beating Ward I 4-3 to emerge winner, with Azeez Yaqub as the highest goal scorer and winner of the golden boot.

    Bamigboye while promising that his and successive administrations would continue to organise the match, said it was organised to identify talented footballers amongst the 10 wards in Mushin.

    “Football is something that brings smiles to the face of people. The purpose is to catch them young, we can easily identify the talented ones among them and start taking care of them. People have to identify their talent and the local government is ready to support them. It has become a global thing that can’t be underrated. It has started over two years ago and I’ll advise my successors to continue,” he said.

    Member, House of Representatives, Toyin Fayinka, said football had become a symbol of unity that put smiles on the faces of the participants and viewers.

    “Football has become a uniting factor. It is not the money that was given to the participants that matters; you can see the happiness and joy on the face of everyone. It is very symbolic”, he said.

    Member, Lagos State House of Assembly, Olayinka Kazeem, who lauded the initiative, said it would take youths away from the streets.

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    Supervisor for Youths and Sports, Olatunji Okelola, who commended the council boss, said the chairman was willing to support initiatives like this that would empower the youth. He also said the council is gearing up for training and empowerment of residents.

    “We are trying to catch them young with the support of Mushine. The winner and the runner up are going home with N250,000 and N150,000 respectively. Highest goal scorer is going home with a golden boot. We want to take them out of the streets, so that they can have something doing,” he said.

    Leader of Legislative House Ayegbayi Olawale, urged the participants to persevere, dedicated and be hardworking, adding that those are vital ingredients for success.

  • Residents seek govt’s intervention on social amenities

    Residents seek govt’s intervention on social amenities

    • By Fatiah Akinrilade and Ganiyat Mumuni

    Residents of Lagos Mainland Local Government have called on the authorities to provide essential social amenities to alleviate their daily struggles and economic hardship.

    Market women at Oyingbo Modern Market are particularly affected by the lack of proper drainage, which cause flooding during rainfall.

    Speaking with The Nation, the market women claimed the local government collected funds for construction of the drainage but failed to deliver.

    “The Local Government collected N350 from each of us for a brick lap that was destroyed soon after. They told us to take a loan from LAPO to improve our goods, but many of us are still struggling to repay. The government has abandoned us,” A market woman lamented.

    Residents are also facing challenges with housing, as landlords increase house rent arbitrarily.

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    “A room now costs N500,000. How can we afford that? Government should intervene and talk to the landlords to be considerate,” a resident said, adding “we are struggling with economic challenges, including high transportation fares, increased prices of commodities, and lack of job opportunities. We can’t afford to live like this anymore,” a resident pleads.

    Young graduates are also affected, with many unable to find employment.

    “I studied Political Science and Public Administration at the University of Ibadan, but I’m now selling Okro. Is this what I studied for?”, she said.

    The residents commended the council chairman and the management for constructing some roads but demands more action.

    “We need food, water, electricity, and jobs. The local government should disburse resources to the community, not just share it among themselves,” they said.

  • Igbogbo-Baiyeku opens Olorunfunmi Legislative, Administrative building

    Igbogbo-Baiyeku opens Olorunfunmi Legislative, Administrative building

    • By Tajudeen Adebanjo

    The Igbogbo-Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has inaugurated a Legislative and Administrative building.

    The building was named in honour of the former Secretary to the Lagos State Government Asiwaju Bashorun Olorunfunmi.

    Chairman of the council, Olusesan Daini, said the building of the legislative and administrative chamber is aimed to provide space and opportunity for legislators to perform their duties as enshrined in the constitution for government to function effectively.

    He said: “What we have done today is to institutionalise arms of government and one of the functions of legislative arms is for formulation of bye-laws and bye-laws are what determines policies, so without proper law, execution and implementation, without proper feedback from the communities, and stakeholders meetings, there cannot be good governance.

    “Today marks a momentous occasion as we commission this magnificent legislative and administrative building.

    After over seven years of tireless efforts, we have finally achieved another milestone, fulfilling a key promise to our people.

    “This edifice is a testament to our commitment to providing a conducive environment for effective governance and service delivery. It will serve as a hub for legislative and administrative activities, fostering collaboration, innovation, and progress.

    “I am proud to say that this project was awarded for completion within two months, but through sheer determination and hard work, we have delivered it in just six months. This is to confirm our commitment to efficiency, effectiveness, and excellence.

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    “As we round up our second term in office, this project stands as one of the legacy of our administration’s achievements. We have worked tirelessly to improve the lives of our citizens, and this building will serve as a hub for our continued efforts.

    “Let us continue to work together, using this building as a catalyst for progress, innovation, and growth.”

    While declaring the building open for public use, House of Reps member, Babajide Benson, extolled the contribution of Daini for his determination to transform the council area, saying that the building would serve as a place where bye-laws, bills would be legislated to deepen dividends of democracy.

    The lawmaker hailed Daini for the boldness, audacity, and mission in transforming the council area.

    “I didn’t regret supporting him to become Chairman of Igbogbo LCDA. Daini is a visionary, accountable, and approachable,” he said.

    Benson stressed the vibrant role of legislators in driving development and progress, saying that the chamber would provide a conducive environment for councilors to be able to achieve their mandate of legislation, representation, and oversights.

    “Based on the autonomy, it is time for councilors to enjoy and assert their authority in their legislative functions,” he stated.

    The lawmaker hailed Daini for prioritising the building of the legislative chamber and demonstrating a commitment to democratic principles, urging the councilors to cherish and utilise the chamber to address the needs of the people, promote inclusivity and sustainable economic development and community engagement.

     Chairman of All Progressives Congress, (APC), Lagos State, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, hailed Daini for making the party proud in terms of infrastructural development at the grassroots.

    Ojelabi, said that the legislative building would provide legislators of the council the opportunity to legislate effectively on issues affecting the area.

    Asiwaju Olorunfunmi and former Lagos State Deputy Governor Abiodun Ogunleye said Daini has done well in moving the council forward.

    Asiwaju Olorunfunmi thanked the council boss for honouring with the building.

  • Isolo offers free eye screening, treatment

    Isolo offers free eye screening, treatment

    In commemoration with the World Sight Day, Isolo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has partnered with The Eye Doctors, an NGO, to provide free eye screening and treatment for residents of the community.

    The programme,offered free blood pressure,  blood sugar tests, eye consultations, and reading glasses distribution.

    The Chairman Isolo Local Council Development Area (LCDA)  Adebayo Olasoju, described the initiative as a testament to his commitment to promoting good health and making life more meaningful for residents.

    Olasoju commended the NGO for making Isolo their destination, adding that the council is ever-willing to partner with humanitarian organisations to carry out more meaningful and impactful programmes.

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    The Eye Doctors’ Optometrist, Dr. Marygold Okiyi Madu, expressed delight in the partnership, stating that the council’s support was crucial to the programme’s success.

    “We are so thrilled at how the council chairman welcomed us and keyed into the initiative. If we hadn’t gotten the support of the council, this programme may not have seen the light of the day,” she said.

    She highlighted the focus on detecting and correcting cataracts, with surgery scheduled for October.

    The Council’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Anne Okonma, assured residents of future partnerships with other NGOs for similar programs.

  • Residents lament deplorable state of Olateju Road

    Residents lament deplorable state of Olateju Road

    • By Mistura Oseni

    Residents of Olateju in Mushin have lamented the deplorable state of Olateju road, Mushin.

    Speaking with The Nation, the residents called on the government to take immediate action to repair it, as its current state not only threatens their movement but also makes the area prone to flooding.

    A tailor, who identified herself as Iya Kafaya, said the road has been abandoned for a while and it hinders vehicular movement.

    “The road has been in a terrible condition for a long time, and the government seems to be doing nothing about it. When it rains, the potholes are filled up with water, making it difficult for us to move around,” she said.

    A resident, John, attributed the road’s deterioration to the poor materials used in its construction.

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    “The government did repair some years ago, but the materials were not good enough. Now, the road is worse than ever,” he said.

    Yemi Adebayo, a tricycle rider, said the bad road is affecting their business.

    “We spend a lot on repairing and maintaining our tricycles because of this bad road.”

    Another tricycle rider, Adeola, shared a harrowing experience, said, “Yesterday, I fell into a pothole because of the bad road. İt’s really affecting me.”

    The residents who took their turn called on the government to take responsibility for maintaining the road and ensuring the safety of us