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Tag: Ambode

  • Sallah: Ambode to fete Muslims in 20 councils

    Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, along with his wife, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode, will celebrate Eid-il-Fitri with Muslims simultaneously in Lagos.

    The celebration will hold at designated locations in each of the 20 Local Government Areas across the State.

    At these venues, apart from the usual merriment associated with such festivals, celebrating Muslims will have the opportunity to pray for sustainability of peace and continuation of development for Lagos.

    Prayers will be offered for the first family.

    A statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs said the administration of Governor Ambode believes that prayer has been playing pivotal roles in the rapid development and tranquillity in the state.

    Before the last year Eid-El-Fitri celebration, religious festivals were usually held at the State House, a situation that excluded large segments of the people.

    The centres for this year’s edition are Agege Local Government Maternity Centre, Agege, Aga Hausa, Ajegunle, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Alimosho Local Government Secretariat premises, Akowonjo, Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Secretariat, Festac, United Christian Primary School, Apapa, Badagry Grammar School, Badagry, Marina Waterfront, Oju-Alaro, Epe, World Oil Filling Station, Ilasan junction, Eti –Osa, Iberekodo Primary School, Ibeju and Ifako-Ijaye Mini Stadium, Ifako.

    Also are Opebi Primary School, Ikeja, Ikorodu Town Hall, Ikorodu, Emmanuel High Primary High School, Ojota, Kosofe, Freeman Street, Lagos Island, Evans Square, Ebute Meta, Lagos Mainland, Nitel Playing Ground near Cappa, Mushin, Ojo Local Government Secretariat, Ojo, Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Secretariat, Oshodi, Angus Memorial High School, Morocco, Somolu and  Surulere Local Government Secretariat premises, Surulere.

  • Buhari has written his name in gold, says Ambode

    LAGOS State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has described the recognition of June 12 as the authentic ‘Democracy Day’ as a victory for democracy.

    Speaking at a symposium in Ikeja, Lagos, yesterday in commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the June 12, 1993 election, he said with this declaration, President Muhammadu Buhari has written his name in gold in the democratic history of Nigeria.

    He said: “It was a day that Nigerians put aside their ethnic and religious biases and spoke with one voice. But sadly the mandate that was given to Abiola on that day by Nigerians was thwarted by the military.”

    The symposium, which took place under the theme, “Restructuring: An Antidote for Effective and Efficient Polity”, was organised by the Office of Civic Engagement of the Lagos State Government in conjunction with the June 12 Coalition of Democratic Formations.

    It was put together to honour the widely acknowledged winner of the election, the late M.K.O. Abiola and his contribution to the country’s democratic dispensation.

    The Lagos State governor also paid glowing tributes to other heroes and heroines of the June 12 struggle, including Gen. Alani Akinrinade, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Ambassador Walter Carrington, Justice Dolapo Akinsanya, Chief Frank Kokori, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Mr. Wale Oshun, Alhaji Balarabe Musa and other activists who participated actively in the struggle for the restoration of the mandate.

    He added: “We also pay glowing tribute to the beautiful memories of patriots such as Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Pa Michael Adekunle Ajasin, Pa Abraham Adesanya, Chief Michael Enahoro, Chief Alfred Rewane, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, General Adeyinka Adebayo and several others, including innocent ordinary Nigerians, young and old who were murdered in cold blood on the streets of Lagos and in other major cities of Nigeria. Today, we declare that their sacrifice has not been in vain,” he said.

    Ambode also commended Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who governed the state between 1999 and 2007, for being the pioneer governor to declare public holiday on June 12 throughout his tenure in office, as well as his predecessor in office, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), for his steadfastness in upholding the tradition.

    He said the occasion attests to their visionary leadership.

    He said Nigeria cannot do without restructuring, because fiscal federalism is the only way to achieve true federalism. Alluding to the late Abiola’s campaign slogan, ‘Hope ‘93’, the governor said hope is now renewed for Nigerians.

    Speaking on the theme of the symposium, the guest lecturer, Dr. Dele Ashiru of the Department of Political Science, University of Lagos (UNILAG), called for the amendment of the 1999 Constitution to ensure removal of provisions which inhibit successful running of functional system, especially revenue sharing formula which he said must be by derivation, among others.

    Ashiru said Nigeria is at a crossroads at the moment and that the country must face the challenges squarely or it will pay dearly for it later.

    The guest lecturer said June 12 exposed the structural deficiencies the British colonial masters bequeathed to Nigeria, following the 1914 amalgamation of the Southern and the Northern Protectorates of Nigeria. He said: “A situation where one person sits in Abuja to share the money that accrues to the various arms of government is an anathema to federalism.”

    He blamed the structural deficiencies for most of Nigeria’s current woes, including agitation by minorities, poverty, corruption, armed robbery, kidnappings and the lack of unity among the various nationalities that make up the country.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Cleric commends Ambode

    Founder and general overseer Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Warrior for Christ Mission, Prophet Dr. Solomon Ajao, (JP), has commended Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for his impressive performance during his first three years in the office.

    Speaking against the backdrop of the anniversary service, Ambode attended in the chapel at Alausa secretariat on Sunday, Ajao urged Ambode to continue worshipping God regularly and getting close to his maker for direction continually.

    Commenting on his performance, the prophet said Lagosians should support Ambode to continue his good works in the state by giving him a second term.

    He said: “Look at developments going on at Berger, Agege and Abule Egba among others. See how he has transformed Lagos state and you will not deny the fact that his performance is enough to earn him a second term ticket.”

    He advised the Lagos state governor to continue to work hard in the area of security stressing that hoodlums have continue to harass law – abiding citizens who are doing their lawful businesses.

    Ajao said some criminals have made the railway line area in Fagba, Agbado – Ijaye council area their haven terrorising citizens and breaking into churches to steal phones and other valuables belongings to parishioners.

    He commended the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) at Oko Oba, Red House and Iju – Ishaga divisions because their men were usually parading the black spot along the railway line.

     

  • Ambode: It’s a historic moment

    Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode hailed the descision of the President.

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary Habib Aruna, Governor Ambode described the development as “a historic and symbolic moment in the nation’s political trajectory.”

    He added: “This is a welcome development. It is a historic moment in our nation and I join other Nigerians to commend President Buhari on this announcement. By this move, he has done what previous administrations failed to do.

    “This not only shows that the President is a man of history and character but also eloquently confirms that the heroes of democracy did not die in vain after all.”

  • Ambode urges civil servants to sustain change mantra

    Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday urged civil servants to  embrace quality improvement in the public service, to sustain the change mantra of the present administration.

    Speaking at a two-day training in Ikeja, Ambode said the use of the word change as a political slogan or mantra was extensive, especially during the electioneering campaigns.

    He stressed the need to ensure that workers were trained and retrained to fit into the act of change mantra and  make them part of the civil servants who would form the bedrock upon which change would revolve.

    “Change became a clarion call for bold action and monumental shifts in governing style, a fundamental repudiation of the previous eight years. The use of the word change as a political slogan or mantra was extensive in the 2015 general election. We had a fair share of it. The concern, however, is that mantras and slogans are not easily converted into concrete actions.”

    The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Establishments, Training and Pensions, Dr Benson Oke, said the present administration since inception in 2015 had been mindful of avoiding the pitfall, hence the support received by the Ministry of Establishments, Training and Pensions to ensure it organised training and workshop to concretise and convert the change mantra into a meaningful and sustainable change in the civil service.”

    Ambode said the present administration realised that to achieve change, a commitment to the mission was necessary.

     

     

     

  • Ambode…the beat goes on

    To many Nigerians, Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is a reference point in good governance. In this piece, EKENE OKORO highlights the achievements of the administration, which have made it a model.

    Like a captain already certain of the routes to navigate to get to the destination, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode took over mantle of leadership and commenced sailing the ship of Lagos State on May 29, 2015 albeit on a shaky note which was not unusual with any expedition with a bigger picture in mind.

    The governor was just about settling in for business of governance when the corollary of the rocky start began to be felt in major sectors especially security and traffic management. Naturally, tempers flared and people started asking questions to the point of raising doubt about the ability of the Governor to step into the “big shoes” left by his predecessor, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola now Minister of Power, Works and Housing.

    In the face of the initial turbulence, Ambode kept calm and remained focused on the big picture and soon, the story changed and people who castigated him initially started showering accolades on him for sterling performance in office.

    The governor, who later explained the reason for the early hurly-burly experienced by his administration, said any organization with success in mind must first think through its policies, plan and then act by brilliantly executing the well-rounded programs. The process of thinking and planning the programmes brought about the initial drawback, but today the story of Governor Ambode’s Lagos is a potpourri of positively impactful infrastructural renewal as well as focused and dynamic leadership in all sectors and sections of the State.

    To ascertain that he is a public financial expert extraordinaire, Governor Ambode came up with checks and balances for revenue inflow and also introduced the Treasury Single Account which in turn blocked revenue leakages and loopholes. The development ensured that there were funds to carter for government activities, while he immediately followed same with N11billion approval to offset arrears owed since 2010, not only for Lagos State Government mainstream retirees but also retirees in Local Governments and Parastatal organizations. As we speak, the government has done a lot in that regard in terms of taking care of retirees and of course the staff that are still in active service.

    In response to the public outcry over the increase in spate of crime, governor Ambode rebranded the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the Nigerian Police, and in an unprecedented move, he donated equipment worth N4.765billion to the State Police Command. This was done in September of 2015 and the items include 100 4-Door Salon Cars, 55 Ford Ranger Pick-Ups, 10 Toyota Land Cruiser Pick-Ups, 15 BMW Power Bikes, 100 Power Bikes, Isuzu Trucks, three Helicopters, two Gun Boats, 15 Armoured Personnel Carriers, Revolving Lights, Siren and Public-Address System, Vehicular Radio Communicators, Security Gadgets including Bullet Proof Vests, Drones, Helmets, Handcuffs, Uniforms, Kits and Improved Insurance and Death Benefit Schemes for officers.

    The governor, in coming up with the policy framework of his administration, had hinged it on security, job creation and infrastructural renewal. According to him, when there is security of lives and property, more businesses will spring up and such will facilitate job creation, while the taxes derived from the jobs would be judiciously utilised to provide amenities for the people, thereby making life comfortable and easier for them.

    Flowing from that, the governor in March 2017 donated 48 Patrol Vans, 385 Walkie Talkies, 11 Base and Repeater Stations, 1,150 Uniforms, 570 Handcuffs, 1,150 Belts, Berets and boots to boost the operation of the Neighborhood Watchers to keep all the communities in Lagos safe. It must, however, be noted that the Neighborhood Watchers have been rebranded and transformed to Neighborhood Safety Corps Officers with 171 Vehicles fitted with communication gadgets, 377 Motorcycles, 4000 Bicycles, Metal Detectors, 7000 members of staff, among others to improve security in all communities in the State.

    As part of the transport reforms in the state, the governor in another unprecedented move, commissioned the Mile 12-Ikorodu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Extension Project and injected 434 new air-conditioned and comfortable BRT Buses into the transport scheme in November 2015, while as part of the integrated transportation system aimed at ensuring intermodal transportation of rail, water and land, Governor Ambode re-launched the Blue Line Rail Project which upon completion would ease connectivity in the State as over 500, 000 passengers would be conveyed daily between Marina and Okokomaiko. The project is to be followed by the second phase which is the Red Line Rail Project from Alagbado to Lagos Island.

    In terms of easing traffic, in the first two years Governor Ambode’s administration, several laybys and modern segregated bus parks have been constructed across the State with some still ongoing notably in Ikeja, Oworonshoki, Lekki-Epe expressway, Ogudu, Alapere, among others, while in a move to find a lasting solution to the perennial traffic gridlock along Ikorodu Road, Governor Ambode on November 9, 2017 commissioned multiple Layby and Slip Road in Alapere. On the same day, the Governor also launched the Intelligence Transport System (ITS), the e-ticketing for commuters using the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), the Ojota BRT Depot and the new complex for the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority known as LAMATA Place.

    In area of road infrastructure, perhaps the sector is the biggest beneficiary of the impactful administration of Governor Ambode as no part of the State was left behind in the last three years.

    Briefing reporters, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Adebowale Akinsanya said in the last three years, the State Government has completed about 500 significant projects which have in turn contributed to make life easier for residents and positively changed the landscape of the State, while several others are ongoing.

    From Ikorodu to Lagos-Abeokuta expressway to Badagry, Epe, Ikeja and so on, one road project or other is either completed or ongoing simultaneously including 21 Lagos-Ogun boundary roads with two bridges in Alimosho inaugurated in March 2018, Pen Cinema Flyover, 181 inner roads, Epe arterial roads, and the recently approved flyover to be constructed in Fagba to permanently address the perennial traffic associated with the axis.

    In the health sector, the governor expressed his readiness for the sector as early as August in 2015 when he commissioned 20 Mobile Care Units Ambulances and 26 Transport Ambulances which were deployed across the various General Hospitals and primary healthcare centres in the State. He also approved the purchase of generators and x-ray machines for all General Hospitals in the State to ensure 24-hour power supply. Since then, it has been good tidings for the sector with major upgrade of facilities in all the General Hospitals and Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs), with more springing up. The first state-owned helipad for medical emergency was also constructed within the premises of Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), among others.

    Giving details of the strides of the present administration recently, Commissioner for Health, Dr Jide Idris said in area of tertiary healthcare for instance, LASUTH benefited from the supply of medical equipment by the Governor, while renovation of some buildings in the hospital was carried including Old Admin Block, Surgical Emergency, Kitchen, Laundry Section, Chest Clinic, Engineering Workshop, Main Laboratory, Tailoring, among others.

    In area of food security and agriculture, Ambode entered into a strategic partnership with Kebbi State in 2016 which brought about the famous Lake Rice. The initiative forced down the price of rice in the market and the Governor is building on that to install a 32 metric tonnes per hour rice mill in Imota, a suburb of Ikorodu.

    It is projected that when operational from February 2019, the mill will ensure availability of rice in the market and will also facilitate the creation of about 200, 000 jobs across the Agric value chain, while it will also bring about cultivation of 32,000 hectares of farm land to produce rice paddy equating to an estimated 130million kg of processed rice per year (an equivalent of 2.6million 50kg bags of rice). Also, the scheme will be aligned with the Western Nigeria economic integration agenda whereby the States in the South West will supply the mill with rice paddy.

    In the same vein, work is progressing steadily at the new Mile 12 Regional Foodstuff Market in Imota which will accommodate the traders in Mile 1 and other markets in the area. The idea of the new market was conceived in response to the fact that the activities of traders in Mile 12 were already impacting negatively on traffic and the environment, hence the need for them to move to a more bigger, comfortable and convenient place. And in order to forestall the chaotic traffic situation in Mile 12 as a result of the market, government had begun moves to expand Ikorodu-Itoikin-Imota- Road up to Epe.

    In that axis too, work is already completed for operational take-off of the Timberville Sawmill in Agbowa/Ikosi Ejirin LCDA where plank traders in Okobaba Sawmill will be relocated to. The development will pave way for the regeneration of Okobaba.

    In the power sector, the government through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, has scored many first. First, the Governor unveiled the Light Up Lagos Project with three-pronged approach focusing on street lightening, community electrification and embedded power programme. Through the street lightening component of the scheme, major highways and streets are now well lit at night thereby enhancing secuvironment and bringing about major boost to the night economy of the State. On the community electrification component, many communities across the State have so far been connected to the national grid and many others had their either moribund or non-existent transformers replaced with new ones.

    On the embedded power programme, Ambode had set up a Power Advisory Committee made up of key stakeholders from the public and private sector to drive the bid by the State Government to generate 3000 Megawatts of power and distribute it in the State to ensure power security. Also, a legislation to legalize the initiative has been passed by the State House of Assembly.

    Perhaps, one of the major achievements of the Governor is the N25billion Employment Trust Fund (ETF) set aside to provide minimal interest loan for members of the informal sector and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). So far over N4.1billion has been given to about 5,000 beneficiaries.

    In the area of tourism, several statues of illustrious Nigerians who contributed to the growth of not just Lagos,                                      but Nigeria in general have been erected such as that of late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo; human rights crusader and philanthropist, late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, among other monuments across the State.

    Aside the fact that tourism master plan is being developed for the State and would be ready by end of May 2018 which will drive tourism potentials of the State for the next 15 to 20 years, work is at various stages on new Lagos Museum in Onikan, redevelopment of J.K Randle Centre for Yoruba History and Culture and construction of six new theatres in Ikeja, Badagry, Igando, Epe, Ikorodu and Lagos Mainland.

    As part of the smart city project, many online portals have been developed to enhance residents’ interaction with government, while High Definition CCTV cameras with gantries are being installed across the state. Also, the State Government has concluded plans to transform the Sabo Industrial Estate in Yaba into a technology hub and another Silicon Valley where new set of entrepreneurs and innovators will be raised to address the challenges confronting the nation in the ICT sector.

    In education, considerable achievements have been made with completion of new model colleges, revamping of infrastructure in public schools and ingenuity in coming up with innovative initiatives such as Ready.Set.Work (RSW), Code Lagos, among others.

    Giving details of activities of the government in the sector recently, the Deputy Governor, Mrs Idiat Adebule said a total of 12,500 final year students in tertiary institutions have so far been trained in the last two years on entrepreneurship and employability skills under the RSW, while plans have been firmed up to train 25,000 students through the scheme in 2018.

    The RSW is an intervention of Governor Ambode’s administration designed to equip graduates of tertiary institutions in the State with knowledge, skills and attitude required to gain employment upon graduation. It is a 13-week training through which participants are prepared for immediate entry into the workforce as employees and employers of labour by equipping them with market-aligned soft skills, business tools and a mindset of re-orientation.

    Besides, the deputy governor, who is overseeing the Ministry of Education, said as part of efforts to improve the learning environment, 160 projects for rehabilitation of schools were awarded and completed in the last one year at a cost of N4.8billion. Also, many projects have been completed in state-owned tertiary institutions and significant ones are ongoing including the 6000 capacity hostel and Senate building at Lagos State University (LASU), among others at various stages of completion.

    In the environment, the State Government introduced the Cleaner Lagos Initiative (CLI) which like the present administration started on a shaky note but is gradually being addressed. Under the CLI, the three Transfer Loading Stations in Agege, Oshodi and Lagos Island have been upgraded and retrofitted to international standard, while the first engineered sanitary landfill in the whole of West Africa is nearing completion in Epe. 27,000 community sanitation workers are being employed to sweep the inner streets, while mechanized sweeping equipment have been deployed to the highways. Also, brand new compactors and other equipment are being deployed to collect waste, and the positive results are already being felt.

    Major parks such as Johnson Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park in Alausa, Badagry Recreational Park, Rafiu Jafojo Model Recreation Park in Alimosho, installation of connecting walkways to Eyo Fountain and flag area of JJT Park, and rehabilitation of Gani Fawehinmi Park, Ojota and Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, while various major and mini waterworks were completed and some ongoing in Adiyan, Ishasi, Imeke Iworo, Akute Intakes, Oke-Odo, Iju, Surulere, Ikeja, Magodo, Isheri Osun, Epe, Ikorodu, Dolphin, Ajangbadi, Lekki, Ojokoro, Victoria Island, among others.

    In housing, the government in April 2016 introduced the rent-to-own policy whereby home owners under the scheme will just pay one month rent and spread the remaining payment over 10 years. Through the scheme, thousands of residents have become home owners and the allocation of homes is now a regular occurrence as the houses are being allocated as soon as completion.

    In the area of Sports, the present administration successfully reintroduced the Lagos Marathon in 2016 and the event has now gained international recognition as IAAF bronze label marathon race.

    In area of sporting infrastructure, the government approved comprehensive upgrade of Campos Mini Stadium, Lagos Island; Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere; Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Rowe Park, Yaba; Isheri Football/Swimming Pool; Ijede Mini Stadium, Ijede, Ikorode; as well as the reconstruction of Onikan Stadium awarded at the cost of N3.6billion. When completed in 2019, the Onikan Stadium would be an all-covered ultra-modern international stadium with FIFA certified artificial turf. It will also be a multi-purpose arena where entertainment concerts and other activities would be staged with capacity for 10,000 people.

    Within the period under review, the Agege Stadium was also remodeled to Confederation of African Football (CAF) standard. Due to the transformation, the stadium now houses a state-of-the-art dressing room equipped with modern information and communication technology facilities, among others.

    Another significant milestone recorded is the progress recorded with gigantic projects such as Eko Atlantic City (EAC) and Lekki Free Trade Zone. The first residential building in EAC was unveiled last year and work is progressing well thanks to the support given by the State Government.

    In the Ibeju-Lekki axis, the petrochemical, refinery, fertilizer and gas plants being constructed by the Dangote Group are moving well, and the company recently completed an industrial jetty to rev up the projects, while the Federal Government launched the Lekki Deep Seaport project in partnership with the State Government.

    Apart from giant strides in provision of infrastructure, the Governor also came up with new offices to enhance government including Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Office of Overseas Affairs and Investment (Lagos Global) to drive investment, Office of Civic Engagement to enhance relationship with government, and re-engineering of the finances of the State to the point that Lagos now generate an average of N34billion monthly revenue.

    With the completed and ongoing projects, it is expected that the ship of State under Ambode will berth safely and triumphantly in 2019 and will hopefully be renewed by the people for another four-years.

     

  • Ambode’s wife donates shoes, socks to Lagos school pupils

    Wife of Lagos State Governor, Mrs Bolanle Ambode, on Tuesday commenced the distribution of 50,000 shoes and branded socks to primary one pupils of public schools across the state.

    Ambode, in her remarks at the Cherubim and Seraphim Primary School, Ikorodu, where the project commenced, said the initiative, tagged “Project Bright Steps,” was to boost the morale of the pupils.

    She said it was also to sensitise the society on the importance of the pupil’s welfare in getting the best out of them in their academic pursuits.

    “We observed with pain, that many pupils were less than properly dressed to School, as some turn up in bathroom slippers, with many others barefooted.

    “This sort of daily appearance for school activities certainly cannot guarantee them the desired self-esteem or confidence to excel in their academic work,” Ambode said.

    She explained that it was in view of the above that the foundation settled on the mass procurement and distribution of shoes and socks to the pupils to prepare them for school.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Project Bright Steps initiative is part of Ambode’s pet project Hope for Women in Nigeria (HOFOWEM).

    Ambode urged the pupils to be serious with their studies and not make excuses of challenges and limitations.

    “You can learn something new every day, if you listen attentively in class and with strong determination, you can overcome all barriers to achieve your desired dream.

    “Keep your eyes on the stars and feet to the ground, do small things in great ways. It is about your attitude of mind,” Ambode said.

    The governor’s wife said the exercise was an annual event aimed at touching as many pupils as possible in the public primary schools.

    “HOFOWEM is hinged on hope, with focus on issues of children, women, widows, youths, aged women and the sick.

    “It also carries out economic empowerment for youths, support for pregnant women and mothers of multiple births, among others,” she explained.

    Earlier in her welcome address, Mrs Oyefunke Olayinka, the Chief Executive Officer of HOFOWEM, said that the programme was aimed at increasing school attendance by equipping pupils for school.

    Olayinka said this would serve as a means of support for indigent parents who might find it difficult to provide the basic school needs required by their children and wards.

    She commended Ambode for her love and care for children and to ensure that they have a secured future.

    We also reports that with the flag-off of the project in Ikorodu, the initiative will be extended to other centres in Agege, Maryland, Yaba, Ojo, Amuwo-Odofin, Epe and Lagos-Island.

    About 175,000 shoes and socks were distributed to all primary one to three pupils of public primary schools in 2016.

  • Ambode, deputy to Muslims: continue good deeds after Ramadan

    Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and his deputy, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule have enjoined Muslims to continue to uphold the tenets of Islam beyond the month of Ramadan by strengthening their faith in God, showing love to one another and always embracing peace and harmony while resolving conflict.

    The duo made the call at a Special Ramadan Lecture and Iftar organised by Adebule for Muslims at her official residence in Ikoyi.

    The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Tunji Bello noted that since Islam as a religion preaches peace, unity and love, Muslim faithful should always love one another and strengthen their relations with fellow human beings irrespective of their beliefs, tribes or culture, adding that more developments would be achieved where there is peace and tranquillity.

    Adebule urged Muslims to remain steadfast, committed, peaceful to the worship of Allah and continue to pray for the development of the state and prosperity of Nigeria as a whole.

    According to her, Ramadan is a period of prayer, thanksgiving, forgiveness, spiritual training, and self-examination.

    Muslim faithful, she said, should avoid acts and things forbidden by Islam during and after the holy month.

    She called on Nigerians to always avoid violence or other acts capable of undermining developments in the society.

    Her husband, Alhaji Saheed Adebule, advised Muslims to remain steadfast in their daily prayers and to extend love and care to their neighbours.

    ”We have to be steadfast to remain with God, that is what we require to make our nation great,” he said.

    The guest speaker, Alhaji Dhikrullah Hassan urged Muslims to always be upright, steadfast and depend totally on God for everything.

    “We are faced with enormous challenges today because we have refused to be steadfast in our service to God, we have refused to trust and depend on God.

    ”We need to retrace our steps, avoid unlawful acts, pray and communicate more with God; and allow God to do His will. Depend on Him solely for everything because Allah does not forget His duties,” Hassan, the Osun State Amirul Hajj, said.

     

  • Jonathan, Ambode, Ajimobi, Amosun commiserate with Aboderin family

    More condolences poured in for the family of the late Chairman of Punch Nigeria Limited, Mr. Gbadebowale Aboderin yesterday.

    Aboderin, a trained pilot and basketball enthusiast, died in Lagos on Wednesday following a heart surgery at First Cardiology Consultants.

    He was aged 60.

    Among the eminent Nigerians who sent condolence messages to the family yesterday were for President Goodluck Jonathan; Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode; Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi and Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun.

    In a condolence letter to the Aboderin family and the management and staff of Punch Newspapers, Jonathan described the late Aboderin as a  crusader for public good, saying that he would be sorely missed because of his deep commitment to national development.

    A statement issued by Jonathan’s media adviser, Mr. Ikechukwu Eze, said the ex-President also noted that Aboderin left a legacy of hard work and passion for a just society.

    The statement said: “The late Aboderin will be sorely missed because of his deep commitment to national progress and the ease with which he reached out and made friends across regional lines and religious ties.

    “He was a man who invested hugely in the cause of the ordinary people and worked altruistically for public good.

    “The high value he placed on social capital was evident in the height to which he took Punch, expeditiously repositioning the newspaper as a credible voice for equity, national unity, good governance and democracy.

    “As a sports enthusiast, he willingly channeled his energy and resources in the pursuit of his interest; a passion that positively reflected in his substantial contributions to sports development, especially the game of basketball which he greatly lifted.

    “He will be remembered for his impressive legacy of hard work, philanthropy and passion for a just and equitable society.”

    Sad development, says Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, expressed sadness over Aboderin’s death in a condolence letter he personally signed and addressed to the Managing Director of Punch Nigeria Limited, Mr. Demola Osinubi.

    The governor described Aboderin’s death as a sad development coming at a time when the media institution can benefit more from his leadership and direction.

    The statement said: “With deep sympathy, the Lagos State Government wishes to condole with the management of Punch Nigeria Limited and the entire family of the Founder, Chief James Olu Aboderin, on the sudden death of the Chairman, Mr. Wale Aboderin.

    “The Punch has earned its place as a great medium for the expression of views and dissemination of news and intelligence on account of the high standards of ethics and the vision of its founding partners.

    “The death of Mr. Wale Aboderin is a sad development at a time this media institution can benefit more from his leadership and direction.

    “It is a big loss to the sports sector in which he played major roles as investor and philanthropist.

    “Because of these impeccable records, he lives in our hearts. His indelible footprints tell us that he will always be part of our journey as citizens of Nigeria and the world at large.”

    We lost a great son —Ajimobi

    Governor Ajimobi expressed “utter shock” at the news of the untimely death of the Chairman of Punch Nigeria Limited, who he described as an illustrious son of Oyo State, and a lovable brother and consummate gentleman.

    A statement issued by the Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy to the governor, Mr. Bolaji Tunji, lamented that death had again snatched one of the great sons of the land, who spread his signature effervescence and love everywhere he went.

    The governor expressed sadness that death cut short the dream of the foremost entrepreneur and affable administrator whose magic wand, he said, had further entrenched Punch as a dominant force in the newspaper industry.

    Ajimobi said: “That the Punch newspaper now prints simultaneously in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt is directly attributable to the business acumen, dexterity and go-getting efforts of my late brother, who toiled day and night to sustain the family’s business legacy.

    “The enigma called death has again cut short the life of one of our shining and unassuming stars.

    “Wale was a great citizen of our dear state and son of the soil in whom we were well pleased. The news of his sudden death saddens me.

    “His simplicity and modest lifestyle despite sitting atop a multi-billion naira enterprise are exemplary and noteworthy. I was told that no employee enters his office with a frown without leaving with a smile.

    “I can boldly say that death is not the end of my adorable brother’s life, since only his body departed.

    “His spirit can never die; it continues to live with us. His legacies of humility, selflessness, integrity, diligence and Godliness shall continue to live with us.

    “I know that no soothing words can help ease the pain and loss that my sister, his dear wife and lovable children are feeling at this moment, but they will forever be in my prayers and thoughts.”

    He was a zealous professional, says Amosun

    Governor Ibikunle Amosun expressed deep sadness over the death of Aboderin in his condolence message signed by the Ogun State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Otunba Adedayo Adeneye.

    Describing the deceased as a versatile Nigerian who excelled in all his endeavours, Amosun said “the late Mr. Gbadebowale Aboderin, a professional pilot, was zealous in carrying on the legacy bequeathed by his late father and Founder of the Punch Newspapers, Chief Olu Aboderin, when he took over as chairman of the company.

    “His commitment to the development of basketball in Nigeria, which saw him founding the Dolphins Female Basketball Foundation and emerging the chairman of the Lagos State Basketball Association as well as Vice President of Nigeria Basketball Supporters Club, is worthy of emulation.”

    The governor prayed God to grant the family of the late Aboderin the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

     

  • Lagos, Ambode and 2019

    Since the return of democracy in 1999, Lagos has witnessed development that positioned Lagos as not just the centre of excellence, but also the pacesetter in terms good governance and dividends of democracy. The administration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu played the critical role of laying the foundation of a modern Lagos and on whose foundation Akinwunmi Ambode is working to actualize a Smart Lagos.

    Leadership, as they say, is the capacity to translate vision into reality and this can be said to be true for Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode after taking the oath of office at exactly three years ago. He had a vision of a prosperous and safer Lagos focusing on the tripod of security, infrastructure and job creation.

    He envisions a Lagos that will compete favourably with cities like New York, Paris, London and Dubai in terms of efficient transportation system (road, rail and water), security, infrastructure and human capital development. He believes in a Lagos State that works for everyone, where everyone can live, work and feel safe!

    His proactive and visionary policies have engendered giant achievements in the areas of security, infrastructure, tourism, job creation and administration of justice in Lagos State in the last three years. His policies, programmes and projects have touched every aspect of life of both residents and visitors.

    On his realization that security is key to good governance and sustainability of investments to make life better for Lagosians, he embarked on huge investment in the rebranding and provision of patrol vehicles, boats, helicopters, power bikes and other security equipment within his first six months to assist law enforcement agencies in maintaining public peace and security. He followed it up with the establishment of Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps to collaborate with other security agencies in intelligence gathering, collating and sharing to ensure safe, secure and conducive environment in Lagos. These efforts have culminated in drastic reduction in crime rate and making Lagos a safe haven for living, tourism and investment.

    Emergency services have been repositioned for efficient service delivery, especially the Response Unit of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) as first responders within minutes of emergency situations in Lagos. Transformation of the Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) to Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps in a bid to achieve a cleaner Lagos and protect our environment.

    You will marvel at the infrastructural development ongoing in Lagos. Over 500 roads either reconstructed or rehabilitated across the 57 LG/LCDAs, fly-over and pedestrian bridges, Ikeja bus terminal, first-class transportation hub in Oshodi and so many gigantic projects turning every nook and cranny of Lagos State to constriction sites.

    Ambode believes in the saying that health is wealth thus the priority he placed on the overall wellbeing of all Lagosians, hence the huge investment in the upgrade and provision of state-of-the-art health facilities, including the first Mobile Cancer Screening Centre.

    In the area of administration of justice, his government has through the Ministry of Justice embarked on some reforms and formulated modalities to expedite the dispense of justice in the state. In September last year, Ambode commissioned the Lagos State DNA and Forensic Centre, the first state-owned in the West Africa positioned to use technology in resolving all forms of crimes, paternity issues and others issues.

    Lagos, under Akinwunmi Ambode, as an emerging market, has become the financial hub and preferred investment destination in Africa which in the last two years alone attracted more Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) than it did in the last 15years.

    It is no gainsaying that if Ambode could achieve all of these in three years, he will do so much more if given another term in office as the Governor of Lagos State. With continued support by Lagosians, especially at the polls, I have no doubt Ambode will overwhelmingly defeat his opponents at the polls in 2019 as Lagosians know and will continue to bet on the winning horse.

     

    • Comrade Daini Olusesan Mayokun is the Executive Chairman of Igbogbo-Baiyeku LCDA and the Public Relations Officer of Conference 57 of LGA/LCDA Chairmen in Lagos.