Apapa Local Government Area, Lagos State has distrib
uted education materials to pupils of the United Christian Primary and Nursery School, Apapa.
The council Chairman, Idowu Senbanjo, said the initiative was to provide relief to the parents of the pupils due to the economic situation in the country.
The gesture, she added, would also improve learning among the pupils in public schools.
Each pupil, she said, received 10 exercise books while full Mathematical sets are added to those from primary four to six.
Speaking with The Nation, Senbanjo promised to ensure that from the new academic session, pupils would have access to textbooks instead of sharing among themselves.
She said the initiative would increase educational standard and enrolment of pupils in the council.
The council chief said teachers in public schools in the area had been provided with tables and chairs.
This, she said, was to complement the laptops they received from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to assist them in class work and impact positively on the pupils.
She announced plans to collaborate with corporate bodies and individuals to turn the United Christian School into a Model school.
During unscheduled inspection of the school environment, the council boss frowned at the unkept surrounding in the school.
She enjoined the school management to ensure tidiness of the school for optimal delivery of learning.
Senbanjo advised the students against peer group influence into social vices while also urging parents to monitor the movement and activities of their children.
Special Adviser to the Chairman on Education, Youth and Sports Development, Dr Mike Egbayelo, said the council was passionate about the development of education in the area.
He said the council had earlier provided free uniforms, school bags and sandals to the pupils to encourage more enrolment in schools in the area.
Head Teacher of the school, Mrs Esther Nwogu, thanked the council chairman for the priority accorded to education of students in the area.
She, however, solicited more support in upgrading facilities in the school.
Parents of benefiting schools praised the council chairman and promised judicious use of the materials.
Some of the schools that benefited from the free distribution of the educational materials include Apapa Primary School, Randle Primary School, Ijora-Oloye Primary School, Ladi-Lak Primary School, United Christian Primary and Nursery School, Nanti Primary School, Methodist Primary School, State Primary School and Aranka Barracks Nursery and Primary School.
Seriki made the plea during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Epe.
He said this was necessary for people at the grassroots to feel the impacts of the council chairmen across the communities.
The commissioner said the chairmen had substantial funds to carry out significant projects that would enhance the welfare and wellbeing of the people at the grassroots.
“There is nothing hindering the chairmen from executing huge projects at the grassroots. No matter how little the fund is, it should be enough to carry out a reasonable project that will impact lives and the community.
“My advice to those chairmen who have been impacting lives and community is that they should continue to do so, while those who are yet to develop their council area should please do so, ” he said.
Seriki, who is representing the Epe Division in the commission, appealed to local government workers to elevate their service delivery for the benefit of the state and their growth.
He emphasised on the importance of personal development and service excellence among local government employees. The commissioner urged civil servants to enhance their performance within the local government service, focusing on welfare, deployment and career advancement.
“It is paramount to the commission that our staff, who are the backbone of service delivery, remain steadfast and continue to improve their conduct and capacity through training and retraining,” he said.
Seriki urged local government chairmen to intensify their efforts in the remaining period of their tenure to accelerate development in their various areas.
The council chief stressed that the January palliative distribution would help mitigate the financial effects of the December celebrations.
He said the distribution was ongoing simultaneously as an empowerment scheme.
Items such as large coolers, soft drinks, umbrellas and host of other items were distributed to selected individuals from each ward in the council.
Ibrahim said: “The distribution of palliatives was done on ward basis. Councillors of each ward were in charge of distributing the palliative packages to their ward members.
“The packages were made up of common food items such as rice, beans, garri and spaghetti. Despite the long queues and the struggle of people to quickly leave for home with their palliatives, the distribution was still fairly in order.”
“Although, there has been previous editions of the palliative distribution scheme, a significant number of the beneficiaries mentioned that they had come here for the first time since it started, and were glad to get to see the government’s concern for their welfare in action.”
He enjoined the beneficiaries of the empowerment scheme to utilise the items given to them to scale their businesses, and not resort to selling them for other purposes.
The council boss further stated that other available items such as pepper grinders and gas cookers would be given out in subsequent empowerment schemes.
He promised to work tirelessly to develop sustainable programmes that include skill development, entrepreneurship and fostering self reliance in the community.
The beneficiaries commended the chairman’s initiative to alleviate their burden on the removal fuel subsidy.
The council boss stressed that the distribution of the tools was as a result of his commitment to delivering quality education to the pupils.
” The introduction of these brush cutters aims to convert time previously spent on clearing bushes into productive teaching and learning hours without belaboring the young ones,” he said.
The Education secretary Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), Shittu Idowu, applauded Anomo’s initiatiave of investing in efficient learning environment that transformed to enhanced educational environment for the students.
He enjoined the headteachers to leverage the equipment effectively and maximise the benefits for the students.
Headteacher of Local Government Primary School, Ikosi-Ejinrin beach, Odumeru expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of all schools.
He pledged, along with his colleagues, to utilise the brush cutters responsibly and continue delivering their best in creating a vibrant and successful learning experience for their students.
Some council chairmen in Lagos State have urged residents of their council areas to protect ongoing and completed road projects in their various communities against damage and abuse.
The chairmen gave the charge in separate statements in Lagos.
Chairman of Mushin Local Government, Emmanuel Bamigboye, said projects were being executed for the benefit of communities and urged residents not to damage them.
Bamigboye said it was disturbing that many project sites and roadsides were being turned to workshops by mechanics.
He warned against conducting businesses in undesignated places, saying the council would deal with anyone found abusing road infrastructure in the council area.
Bamgboye charged community leaders to take ownership of new roads in their communities by protecting them against abuse.
“We advise the community leaders of the newly constructed and rehabilitated streets, Balogun, Tamuriatu, Ijaiye, Amodu, Solanke, Olatunji, Akinwunmi, Kuseyi to protect their roads from being abused and damaged by auto mechanics.
“Some of them have turned roads to workshops. We will not tolerate such act as it is a way of sabotaging the efforts of government,” he said.
Bamigboye’s counterpart in Agege Local Government, Chief Ganiyu Egunjobi, urged residents to imbibe the culture of proper maintenance of roads and other delivered projects.
Egunjobi appealed to residents to be vigilant and protect the rehabilitated Akerele Road in the local government area from being damaged or abused by the roadside traders.
“We will not allow any roadside mechanic or traders to abuse the infrastructure. Community leaders are to ensure the road is free from anything that can damage it,“ he said.
Somolu Local Government Chairman, Abdul-Hamed Salawu, also urged residents to protect the roads and other projects.
He said work was ongoing on the re-construction of Wright Primary Healthcare Centre in the council area.
Salawu said his administration was constructing a road to ensure easy access to the facility
He said: “We are working tirelessly and committed to qualitative healthcare delivery. In parallel, plans are underway for the construction of Wright Lane, incorporating modern extra-strong interlocking stones to create a robust and easily, accessible pathway.
“This initiative aligns seamlessly with our vision for upgrading community infrastructure, aimed at facilitating convenient movement for residents.
“Concurrently, the refurbished Wesley Primary School is poised for comprehensive enhancements, receiving aesthetic upgrades along with new furniture and educational items.
“These combined efforts will contribute to establishing an aesthetically pleasing and well-equipped learning environment for the students.
“We implore the community residents to make good use of these facilities and protect them from being vandalised by the hoodlums and other miscreants,” he added.
The Council Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Abdullahi Olowa, has pledged support for the Lagos State Transport Management Authority (LASTMA).
Olowa made the promise during a meeting with the General Manager of LASTMA, Bakare-Oki and other top management staff members of the agency.
The meeting, he said, was to establish a strategic partnership between the council and LASTMA.
Olowa appreciated the LASTMA for their efforts in trying to get rid of the traffic gridlock, which occurs frequently owing to the ongoing construction.
The Council boss assured LASTMA of his administration’s continued support in the area of patrol and towing of abandoned vehicles.
Attaining 90 years of age is no mean feat. For Deaconess Patience Mofoluwake Sowunmi, the nonagenarian is gracefully in another rare phase to count her blessings specially, name them one-by-one, and then give gratitude to God Almighty.
Many years ago when Deaconess Sowunmi was born. As sounds of her cry echoed through the airwaves of the town, her mother filled with tears of joy, smiled, looked at her and called her ‘Mofoluwake’ meaning ‘I give to the lord to take care of’. Names are indeed special revelations from God and the true identity of humans. This is epitomised by the way Mama rose from grass to grace.
The endless bursts of ovation and adulation at the momentous thanksgiving service and celebration party held by the family in collaboration with the Akoka Community Development Association (Akoka CDA) on Saturday, January 20th was a testament to the fact that Deaconess Sowunmi so far has been exemplary, both in good deeds and character.
Dignitaries including: Deputy Chief of Staff to Former President Muhammadu Buhari, Adeola Rahman Ipaye (OFR); Chairman, Akoka CDA, Idowu Goriola; Former Chairman, Akoka CDA, Segun Adesanya; Rev. Bola Adeyemi; Olori Ndidi Aroyewun, Akoka CDA executive members; stakeholders and a host of others, were in attendance to specially honour Deaconess Sowunmi.
Born on 18th of January 1934, family, grand-children, children, friends, peers, community members, well-wishers from nook and cranny gathered in their numbers at the glorious event. The day is one memorable and auspicious day that cannot be forgotten hurriedly. It was a great day spiced up with different colourful activities and numerous side-attractions.
The gathering reminded Deaconess Sowunmi not only about the kindness of God for her longevity but also of the reality of her unremarkable existence, despite bountiful gifts from her family and blessings from God.
Deaconess Sowunmi is certainly the woman of the moment for so many obvious reasons. With her unique disposition to life, Mama has come a long way navigating with peacefulness, humility, caring, compassion, vision, hard-work and the fear of God. She has carved a niche for herself as an outstanding personae whose approach to handling issues remains unbeatable and enduring.
Like the popular yoruba proverb says, ‘Eni a se lore ti o dupe, bi olosa ko ni leru lo ni’ loosely translated as ‘An ingrate is akin to a robber that makes away with one’s goods’. Deaconess Sowunmi is not an ingrate. She is grateful and has a lot to be thankful for: the sheer gift of life, sound health, a happy family and a supportive community. What more can anyone ask for? It is the Lord’s doing and it is marvelous in our sight.
Deaconess has proved her mettle despite daunting odds. Indeed, she’s a long distance runner who has seen the ups and downs of life including personal tragedies and public triumphs. At age 90, many might think the day is far gone, but there is still enough sunshine to dry the cloth.
Deaconess Sowunmi has contributed enormously and immensely to the giant strides attained by Akoka CDA over the years. She has demonstrated strong character and candour. She epitomises all these and more. In the early days of rising of Akoka CDA from the ashes, she stood confidently well alongside others to serve as the hope to the hopeless.
Her sterling and enviable qualities are simply unrivalled even as a soft spoken and complete gentlewoman with great finesse. Mama’s humility knows no bounds, she is loaded with great sense of humour and impeccable sense of sound judgement.
Truly, Mama is an embodiment of the mercies of God and the gift of life. She has also been a beneficiary of good life, living well for herself and her community at large. At age 90, Mama is urbane, classy and elegant in her carriage, with her emblemic glasses, which makes her look more beautiful.
Encomiums has continued to pour in from various quarters and all strata of the society for Mama. One of the avalanche of eulogy which stood out at the event was that of the chairman of the occasion, Hon. Ipaye. The tall, smart, outspoken leader par excellence took charge of the microphone to speak elaborately on Mama’s exceptional attributes.
He said: “Age 90 is not common. It is a rare event. Mama is very agile, graceful, flexible and beautiful. Mama is also time-conscious. She is very organised, active and healthy. She is generous with her time. She contributes so well to the community. We are thanking God for her life. Mama has been part of the tremendous growth of Akoka CDA. She brings positive attitude to meetings.
Ipaye, a former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State, urged all to take cue from Mama’s thanksgiving attitude, and most importantly emulate her piety and remarkable antecedent.
At the thanksgiving service held at Divine Glory Baptist Church, Akoka, with great nostalgia, quondam CDA chairman, Segun Adesanya recalled how he met Mama about 24 years ago when he was residing on Finbarrs road, and similarly, when Akoka CDA was formed about 10 years ago, Mama joined from day one, and she has been punctual, consistent at meetings.
Applauding her strength, Adesanya further described Deaconess Sowunmi as a wonderful mother and pillar of support who has been supportive both spiritually and physically.
Above all, the enthralling eulogies and a critical look back at Deaconess Sowunmi’s trajectory gives a chronicle of exemplary service to her immediate community and a profile of pure patriotism from an individual. Deaconess Sowunmi could have chosen to live her life as an ordinary member, but because of her selflessness, she chose a different road to travel.
Alao Abiodun is a journalist. He can be reached via alaojoshua200@gmail.com.
The Isolo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has joined in the commemoration of this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day with a commendation to the nation’s fallen heroes,
Chairman of the council, Olasoju Adebayo, described the fallen heroes as the country’s patriots while alive and even in death.
Olasoju in a statement said: “Today, we join the rest of the nation in honoring the memories of our fallen heroes, whose unwavering commitment and selflessness have secured the peace and freedom we cherish. Their sacrifices will forever be etched in our hearts and serve as a reminder of the cost of preserving our unity and sovereignty.
“As we pay tribute to these gallant soldiers, let us also express our solidarity with their families, whose enduring strength and resilience inspire us all. The Isolo LCDA community stands in solidarity with the Nigerian Armed Forces, recognising the crucial role they play in maintaining peace and security.
“As we reflect on the sacrifices made by our heroes, let us renew our commitment to fostering national unity and continue to work towards a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria. The only way this would have been adequately reciprocated by our armed forces is by remaining committed to protecting the sovereignty of the nation and help nurture the country’s nascent democracy.”
Chairman of Apapa Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Alhaja Fumilayo Akande-Mohammed has opened two roads at Osime and Akorede streets.
She listed some of the roads as Makanjuola Oke-Oja, Sari Street, Giwa Street, Sule lane, Kareem Opeloyeru, Amusu, Sari-Iganmu, Amusu, Sango, Arewa, Afolabi, Akorede, and Osime streets, among others.
Alhaja Akande-Mohammed stated that the roads were part of activities to fulfill her promise to the residents during campaign.
“We promised them that we are going to do the road for them, and to God be the glory today, we are able to do the road and it was commissioned by our political father, Prince Tajudeen Olusi and Ojora of Ijora, Oba Fatai Aromire,” she said.
The council boss said the two roads weren’t the only roads she constructed, saying that she had done at least 17 standard roads with good culverts.
She announced that another round of palliatives would soon be distributed to residents.
According to her, there’s an adage which states: “When you do roads and you don’t do stomach infrastructure, it is equals to doing nothing.”
She urged the residents to make good use of the roads and all other inaugurated projects.
“Don’t cook on the walk way or sell your market there. You should handle government property with care and own it. These projects are our property, our heritage and it should be protected from being damaged,” she said.
Ojora of Ijora, Oba Fatai Aromire, lauded the efforts of the chairman for a job well done. “Sincerely, she has tried, if she had not perform well, I wouldn’t have attended the inauguration, she has done a wonderful job. I didn’t even expect her to do as much as she did, let’s give kudos to her,” he said.
Oba Aromire enjoined the people to cooperate with the council chairman because she is doing a lot.
The Ibassa/Ijegun-Egba Youth Association in Oriade Local Council Development Area of Lagos has decried the high rate of cultism in the area.
Chairman of the association, Kareem Idowu, said in a statement that the residents found it difficult to sleep in their houses or walk around the community freely without fear of being attacked.
The chairman said there had been serious unrest because of the deadly cultists’ activities in the community.
“Residents and indigenes of our community are finding it difficult to walk freely; the merchants cannot go about their businesses without fear.
“The children can no longer go to school and all the activities of the community have been placed on hold due to the criminal activities of these notorious cult members that have taken over our peaceful community.
“Their notorious actions do not only affect the community mentally, but it has also affected our community psychologically and economically,” Idowu said.
He said the problem started as a battle between rival cults, but later turned into other things, such as daylight robbery, extortion, attempted rape of the young girls in the community.
“They now brutalise and intimidate innocent members of the community with guns, cutlass, axes, and other dangerous weapons.
“These cult members are not indigenes, nor do they originate from our community.
“It’s crystal clear that evil minds are being sponsored by some undesirable elements within the town and using the current situation to achieve their dastardly mission in the community,” the chairman said.
General Secretary of the association, Mr Wakili Jaiyeolu, was quoted as saying the town is rooted in Yoruba culture, where members co-exist in peace and harmony.
“But as we speak now, the reverse is the case. Cultists have taken over the community’s sanity.
“They are fully armed and connected. They are quick in getting security reports and other information, therefore, making community members scared of divulging their criminal activities.
“These notorious cults are based in some specific areas of the community, notably Zone II (Origerigan), New Site, Oladele Street, Liadi Street, Rasaq Odunewu Street, Akintanmide Street, Muse Anidu Street.
“Other areas are Alhaji Mutiu Street, Alebiosu Street, Adeoshodi Street, Maiyegun Street and some other strategic parts of Ijegun-Egba community.
“The prevailing continuous criminal activities in the community have left us with no option other than to flee the community in search of safety and our wellbeing,” Jaiyeolu said.
He urged the Lagos State Government, the Inspector-General of Police and other relevant agencies to come to their rescue before the situation got out of hand.
“On behalf of the entire Ibassa Ijegun-Egba community, we are appealing to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Inspector-General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, to come to our aid.
“We are law-abiding citizens and we will give total support to the Nigeria Police to eradicate cultism, as we are the victims of these continuous incidents.
“We will use every legal means to reinstate peace back in the community, because we believe in upholding the principles of equity and good conscience within the society.
“We also desire to foster an environment where every member of the community can live in peace and harmony,” Jaiyeolu added.
