The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Ambode

  • Greener Lagos: Ambode hails PPP, solicits more support

    Greener Lagos: Ambode hails PPP, solicits more support

    The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has attributed the success recorded in the greener Lagos initiative to the active involvement of the private sector. He is delighted at the number of sites already developed and maintained by private companies and individuals across various locations in the state.

    Ambode, who spoke during the second Stakeholders Forum on Greening at Alausa, Ikeja, recalled that the Public-Private Partnership, which started about 15 years ago, has reduced the expenditure of the government on the greener Lagos initiative.

    He noted that about 120 sites have so far been developed and maintained through private sector participation out of the over 350 sites in all the local governments and local council development areas in the state. He was represented at the forum by the Commissioner for the Environment, Dr. Babatunde Adejare.

    According to the governor, the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) is presently opening up more areas and sites in all the 57 LGAs and LCDAs in the state for adoption by interested corporate bodies or individuals for the continuation of the Lagos Greening Initiative.

    Ambode said the belief of his administration is that in the foreseeable future, the maintenance of all the gardens and parks across the state would have been taken up by “the Green Investors” and the state government will only regulate and monitor their activities.

    He maintained that although the cost of establishing world class recreational parks and gardens with state-of-the-art features and facilities are quite enormous, his administration will not rest on its oars in investing in the sustainability of the environment.

    While highlighting some giant strides of the state government in the greening initiative, Ambode said: “the ongoing upgrading of Alausa Park in front of Lagos State House of Assembly to a world- class standard with the provision of improved infrastructure and garden lights will serve as a major source of attraction to the citizenry.

    “Also in the last two years, we have commenced the landscaping and beautification of seven setbacks along Alfred Rewane Road, Ikoyi, the Gbagada-Oshodi median and the LASUTH perimeter fence setback, Oba Akinjobi Way, Ikeja.  All these had attained over 60 per cent completion status among several others,” the governor stated.

    He used the occasion to make a renewed call to private investors for their continuous support towards upgrading the beautification of more sites and be part of the story of a transformed Lagos, stressing that such collaboration would further increase Return-On-Investment for business owners and also boost their business reputation.

    The governor added: “Our approach to infrastructural development in this state is all inclusive. As we build bridges, we beautify the environment; as we construct more roads we adorn them with trees; as we open up new towns, we landscape all the degraded areas; this is our attitude to moving Lagos towards becoming a sure destination of choice for tourism and investment.’’

    Earlier, Adejare, represented at the event by the Special Adviser to Ambode on the Environment, Mr. Babatunde Hunpe,  said that the forum will go a long way in improving the working relationship between the state government and Private Sector “Partners”, especially on how to support government and plan expansion of the greening culture.

    “Convergence such as this is intended to create an avenue to review together all contending issues in all the policies relating to the environment with a view to making suggestions for improvement. Also, we can jointly facilitate shared inquiry into how to encourage adoption of green infrastructure through technology advancement at the state level” Adejare stated.

    He appreciated the continued partnership of investors with the ministry, saying that their support over the years has earned the state several awards locally and internationally.

    He informed the participants at the forum that awards would be presented to some committed partners who have been exemplary in supporting the state government since inception of the greening programme.

    The highlight of the events was the unveiling of the draft copy of Lagos Greening Policy and presentation of Green Ambassador Award to Zenith bank, GTBank, Ecobank, UBA, Fidelity Bank and SevenUp Bottling PLC for their sustained effort towards a cleaner and greener Lagos.

  • Challenges before Lagos council chairmen, by Ambode

    Challenges before Lagos council chairmen, by Ambode

    At the swearing in of 57 elected local council chairmen in Lagos State, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode charged them to replicate the achievements of his administration at the grassroots. Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU highlights the challenges that will confront the new helmsmen. 

    Much is expected of the newly elected chairmen of local governments in Lagos State. The 57 chairmen belong to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). They fought vigorously for the tickets and during the council elections. They campaigned in their various councils and wards. They promised to complement the efforts of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode at the grassroots. In fact, many Lagosians voted for them, based on the performance of the governor in the last two years.

    Lagosians expect them to fulfil their campaign promises and live up to expectation. The belief is that, if more dividends of democracy are delivered by the local governments and local council development areas as the closest ‘tier’ of government to the the people, Lagos will be better for it. Describing the election as historic, Ambode, who voted in Epe, his home town, said it affirmed the importance of grassroots governance. Apparently reacting to the apathy that marred the exercise in some parts of the state, the governor said the refusal to vote was a disservice to democracy. “If you don’t participate, if wrong people are elected, they will bring bad result,” he added.

    Across the pre-existing 20 local governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), the exercise was generally peaceful. Contrary to the anxiety expressed by stakeholders ahead of the polls, there was no strife and rancour on a large scale.There was no thuggery and violence. Although there was a skirmish in a ward in Ojuwoye Council, Lagos State Commissioner of Police Fatai Owoseni said police were able to restore order. There was no public molestation by security agents. There was no fear of insecurity on poll day. Security agents were at alert.The electorate were orderly in most of the polling booths. The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) headed by Justice Ayotunde Philips, was alive to its patriotic duty. Except in Agege and some parts of Osodi/Isolo local governments, polling officers and materials were available. Accreditation and voting were smooth. There was no dispute at the collation centres. The exercise was largely credible.

    However, the low turn-out in many polling stations was worrisome. Stakeholders who reflected on the apathy attributed the seeming apathy to three reasons. The voters’ unhappiness about the economic recession may have resulted into waning enthusiasm. Also, the heavy downpour discouraged many voters from performing their civic responsibilities. Southwest APC Women Leader Chief Kemi Nelson noted that many voters stayed in-door because of the rain. But, he said “despite the rain, which has affected the turnout in some areas, APC will win the polls.”

    Ahead of the exercise, the two major parties-the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-were engulfed with crises. While the leadership tussle in the PDP affected its preparations, especially mobilization for the polls, the APC was assailed by post-primary crisis. The APC National Legal Adviser, Dr. Muiz Banire, had criticised the selection process, saying that candidates were being imposed on the party. A court case instituted by an aspirant of the party at Ojuwoye Council led to a fresh primary. A party chieftain in the area said the apathy may be due to lack of unity in the fold. He added: “Some chieftains are still aggrieved. Some aspirants are not happy. So, mobilization was not like before. Our party should reconcile after the elections.”

    The acrimony in the two parties threw up the Accord Party and the Labour Party (LP). While aggrieved APC members used Accord Party as a borrowed platform, aggrieved PDP members contested on the platform of the LP. The transient change of political alliance may have become a permanent feature of Lagos politics in this dispensation.  In 2015, House of Representarives member Hon. Dauda Kako Are, who dumped the APC when he failed to get the re-election ticket, won on the platform of the Accord Party.

    There was jubilation at the Lagos State Government Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja where the chairmen took their oath of office before Ambode. They were accompanied by relations, friends and political associates. They include 17 chairmen who were re-elected, long standing aspirants who have been on the queue for a long time and party loyalists who triumphed over the primary hurdles.

    The governor charged them to be hardworking and transparent in the management of resources at their disposal. He reminded them that they had assumed the reins at a time of great expectations, adding that they cannot afford to disappoint Lagosians.

    Ambode said: “The conclusion of the electoral process marks the beginning of real governance, which has been activated by your swearing in today. The people have by their votes discharged their responsibility. It is now your turn to discharge your part of the social contract you made with the people of your communities, wards and local councils.

    “You are assuming the mantle of leadership at a time when the people expect so much. As you settle down to the business of governance, you must bear in mind that the participation of the people in governance does not end with elections. The people must be carried along and given the opportunity to have a say in policy making process and implementation.”

    The governor advised the chairmen not to discriminate against anyone, irrespective of political, re;igious and ethnic leaning. He said the elections had come and gone, adding that they should now brace up for the challenge of administration. “The dividends of good governance must be fairly distributed to all people without prejudice to political affiliation =, gender, religious belief or ethnic background. We must cherish and nurture the cosmopolitan nature of our state because it is a key factor in our strength and prosperity,” Ambode added.

    The governor stressed the need for an inclusive grassroots administration where every stakeholder will have a voice.

    The Chairman of Lagos Island Council, Hon. Kamal Bashua, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, promised their loyalty and support for the Ambode administration. He also said they will build on the landmark achievements of the government at the local level.

    Lagosians do not expect a dull moment in council administration. They expect the chairmen to swing into action immediately. In accordance with the governor’s advice, they should wave the olive branch and reconcile with their co-aspirants who failed at the primary.

    For some of the chairmen and councillors, the battle is not yet over. Aggrieved candidates of opposition parties may challenge their victory at the tribunal. Thus, at the initial stage, their attention may be split between work and litigation.

    As the chairmen settle down to business, they will affect, as they are affected, by the forces of socio-political pressure. One of the challenges that will confront them is selecting a good team of supervisors. Instructively, the governor has given a guideline on ‘local cabinet composition.’ There is no room for an over-bloated cabinet. The executive council should comprise of the chairman, vice chairman, secretary to council and four supervisors. There should not be any appointment through the back door. However, while merit should not be compromised, appointments should reflect the push for reconciliation in a bid to prevent post-election politics of exclusion. Also, the beneficiaries of the appointments should see them, not as an opportunity to participate in any festival of looting, but as an opportunity to serve the people.

    The chairmen have a role model in Ambode, who in the last two years, has converted the state into a huge construction site. In the next four years, eyes will be on them and voters will hold them accountable. They should fulfil their campaign promises. If they implement people-oriented programmes in education, health and infrastructural development, they will be complementing the governor’s efforts at the grassroots. Besides, the day of reckoning will come in the future. If they fail to live up to expectation, their hope for re-election may be dashed.

    Creative financial engineering must be a priority for the chairmen. They should also embrace value engineering. This is a creativity method geared towards cost reduction, maximum productivity and efficiency. Apart from reliance on allocations from the federal and state coffers, the local government should also look inward. The chairmen should consider ways of boosting the internally generated revenue without inflicting pain on the people.

    The chairmen should not embark on white elephant projects which does not have bearing on grassroots development. Proper monitoring of the council chairmen by the House of Assembly and the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs is desirable. Unscrupulous local party chieftains and opinion leaders fond of extorting money from the chairmen through blackmail, intimidation and threats should be resisted. Chairmen should also be weary of unscrupulous local contractors who are apostles of failed contracts.

    The PDP is waking up from slumber. It should resume its opposition role at the grassroots. The searchlight beamed on the APC council chairmen by the local PDP leaders will serve as democratic check. It is important for grassroots democracy to thrive. If the chairmen are put on their toes by the opposition, they are likely to refrain from impunity and justify the mandate given to them, knowing that they may be seeking re-election in four years time.

     

  • Afenifere lauds Ambode, Southwest governors on integration

    Afenifere lauds Ambode, Southwest governors on integration

    Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, has commended Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and his counterparts in the Southwest for promoting the region’s oneness.

    In a statement by the group’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, it commended Ambode, saying it was during his administration Lagos State keyed into Oodua Investment to cement the oneness of the Yoruba nation.

    “It is gratifying to note the sense of history of the governor (Ambode) in remembering the role the Western regional government under Awolowo played in the development of the West when cocoa was our mainstay by committing to use the economic strength of Lagos to rob positively on other states in Yorubaland.

    “Ambode has, on behalf of Lagos State, pledged to invest billions of naira to acquire vast acres of land in Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti and Ogun for modern, technologically-driven farming. Both raw and processed products from such farms would be brought back to Lagos for effective sales, given the remarkable and huge market potential of the state.

    “This is quite commendable and realisable within effective partnership with his brother governors so our states can benefit from one another by creating jobs and providing food security,” the group said.

    Alluding to the meeting by governors in Abeokuta, Afenifere backed the communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, which among others, proposed a joint task force to tackle insecurity in the region and harness the competitive advantage of constituent states for sustainable development.

    Afenifere also lauded the move by the governors to convene a regional agric summit in Ibadan aimed at improving food security and the establishment of a Western Nigeria Export Development Initiative (WENEDI) to drive export.

    “It is equally salutary that the governors agreed that artificial boundaries of states, religions, political affiliations, among others, would not be a barrier to regional development and urged the states to be encouraged to significantly improve bilateral and multilateral co-operation to foster regional development.

    “We are happy they have affirmed commitment to the development of our people to override petty party differences. It is not an accident that the Yoruba call party “Pati” (set aside).We must set aside things that divide as we search for verb for our noun in the syntax of national experience.

    “We urge them to match these words with action to ensure that the Yoruba nation is restored to the right path of giant development, which the years of unitary rule have derailed us from. It’s time to resume our march of history,” Afenifere said.

    The group also urged Yoruba people to key into these strategic goals “by breaking all mental and artificial barriers that hitherto created among a people united by history, culture and the quest for development.

    “These are imperatives of our quest for autonomy within Nigeria via restructuring of the country to have a proper federation as obtained in the federal constitution negotiated by our founding fathers at Independence.”

     

  • We’re committed to Green Campaign – Ambode

    We’re committed to Green Campaign – Ambode

    As part of its commitment to the Lagos tree planting initiative, Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA last week held a communal tree planting enlightenment exercise.

    The programme held at Ojuwoye Public Primary School, Mushin, was in commemoration of the 10th edition of the programme. The theme of this year’s programme was “Think Green, Plant Trees, and Live Green”.

    Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode was ably represented at the event by the Sole Administrator of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA, Hon. Adekunle Julius. Hon Adekunle in his speech emphasised the fierce urgency to consistently give premium attention and consideration to the flora (trees and plants) in our environment.

    According to him, “We are all aware that trees are important resources in our natural ecosystem with many benefits.

    “The list of benefits is long. Just to point out a few, they represent a vast reservoir of genetic resources and bio-diversity; provide important habitats for all wildlife.”

    He stressed the expediency on all citizens to join the current phase of environmental regeneration, enjoining them to “join the crusade to sustain a healthy environment for this and future generations.”

    “As an important arm of the government, we are committed to the Green Campaign and urge you all to continue to embrace this noble cause. I also strongly implore you all to protect these trees and ensure they live so that we can live.”

    He promised that the Green Campaign event would be held annually, and that the government would intensify efforts at monitoring, sensitizing, and enforcing of extant laws against indiscriminate felling of trees.

    Serenading the guest with gifts of songs and poetry renditions were pupils of Ojuwoye Community Primary School and Saint Martins’ Primary School.

    The state Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Babatunde Adejare, was represented by Mr. Maximus Ugwuoke. He congratulated the LCDA and its leadership for the initiative and encouraged them to continually intensify efforts and commitment to improving the environmental aesthetics of the state. He also urged the community to join hands with the government to ensure a healthy, safe and secured environment.

    Also present at the event were His Royal Highness, the Erelu of Odi-Olowo, Chief Omobonike Akanmu, Alhaji S. Omotayo, Mr. Sakirudeen Omotayo, and other important dignitaries.

    After the talk and engagement sessions, everyone marched to the planting site to plant trees.

  • Ambode pledges befitting NYSC orientation camp in Lagos

    Ambode pledges befitting NYSC orientation camp in Lagos

    The Lagos State Government on Friday promised to build a befitting permanent orientation camp for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

    “I can assure you that at the appropriate time, hopefully, by next year, it will be captured in the state’s budget,’’ Governor Akinwunmi Ambode said at the swearing-in of the 2017 Batch ‘A’ Stream 2 corps members in Lagos.

    The event was held at the NYSC temporary orientation camp in the state.

    The governor was represented by the state Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Seye Badejo.

    According to Ambode, accommodation for corps members has been of great concern to the state government.

    “You will agree with me that there are a whole lot of projects in the state currently jostling for attention.

    “Things have to be properly put in place; we have to get appropriate allocation.

    “It is not like we do not hold the scheme in high esteem; the issue (orientation camp) is currently receiving attention.

    “We can assure you that it is in our front burner and, with time, we will do it,’’ the governor said.

    Ambode said the NYSC scheme remained relevant and would continue to receive the support of the state government “because all hands must be on deck to achieve the aims of the founding fathers of the scheme.”

    The governor commended the management of the scheme in the state for initiating skills acquisition and entrepreneurship development programmes aimed at making corps members self-reliant after service.

    Lagos State Coordinator of NYSC, Prince Mohammed Momoh, said necessary amenities such as power and water had been made available in the temporary orientation camp.

    Momoh said the Bank of Industry (BOI) would open a desk during the orientation to enlighten corps members on various self-reliant programmes.

    NAN

     

     

  • Ambode: Above the euphoria of megacity

    Where is no doubt that that megacities comes with some benefits, chief among which is a large population of over 10 million people, which can serve as a potential market for goods and services. Megacities are naturally metropolitan; it thus offers multiple options in terms of culture as well as creative and productive engagements for diverse population, thereby encouraging healthy competition.

    However, while there are benefits in having a large population, it equally comes with its attendant socio-economic challenges, such as unemployment, crime, over stretching of infrastructure, traffic congestion, environmental pollution, overcrowding and stimulation of emergence /growth of slums, amongst the poor, who may not be able to afford the cost of housing in the city and thus create slums in the suburbs.

    Consequently, a large population if not well managed, rather than a blessing, can become a liability.  Investors knows this much and thus stratify potential markets before taking decisions. Beyond the availability of basic infrastructure and an enabling environment  such as mass transportation facilities, power, potable water, security, law and order and political stability, amongst others, other factors considered before taking investment decisions includes; the financial capability of the population and availability of skilled and professional workforce. There is no point in investing in a city with a large population without a reasonable segment of the population having disposable income to purchase goods and services.

    Similarly, in the area of skilled and professional workforce, even if a foreign investor decides to bring in expatriate workforce, they will still require complimentary services from auxiliary companies and agencies.  For instance, there has been report of a potential investor who renounced the decision to invest in Nigeria to a smaller country in Africa with a lesser market for its product, because of the unprofessional conduct of officials at the airport.

    Equally important in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of a megacity is the deployment of modern technology to make people’s lifestyle more comfortable, bolster security, enhance productivity and improve the ease of doing business.

    While a lot of people seems to be carried away with the elation of Lagos State being a megacity, it is gratifying that the governor, Akinwunmi Ambode is looking beyond the euphoria and striving towards engendering a smarter, functional and efficient megacity.  An area which is also being given priority and critical to the effectiveness of a megacity, but seems unnoticed, is the development of the human capital of the state.  Human capital development plays a crucial role in the functionality of a megacity.  The availability of skilled workforce in a particular area of interest could on its own attract investors, as amplified in August 2016 with the visit of the Founder of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg to ICT hub at Yaba, Lagos, to meet Nigerian technology start-ups, developers and entrepreneurs who have made a mark in the global ICT space.

    Some of Ambode’s efforts in the area of developing the human capital in the State includes; The Lagos Digital Library (www.educatelagos.com), which is aimed at providing unlimited access to knowledge, through the collection and curation of digital content on an online portal.  The content of the portal includes; Teacher Training Guides, Career Guides, Journals, Maps Encyclopaedias; Curriculum Approved Textbooks from publishers, soft skill training courses, e-test resources and archival facts of Lagos State, amongst others.  Plans are also underway to upload other contents such as research papers form tertiary institutions, vocational training videos and online courses on coding.  For the benefit of those who may not have easy access to the internet, free waivers are being provided in public places such as public parks.

    Another initiative on human capacity development is the CodeLagos, to position Lagos State as the technology frontier by training one million Lagos residents to code by 2019. Already, 171 CodeLagos facilitators have been trained.  This is expected to further challenge the entrepreneurial spirit and creativity of our youths in the area of ICT programme development.

    Furthermore, the state government, through IBILE Microfinance Bank  and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (ETF), as part of efforts towards creating new jobs and helping existing Micro, Small and Medium enterprises (MSMESs) expand their businesses, have so far provided a sum of N1.76 Billion for 1,401 MSMESs.  This is expected to encourage entrepreneurship, reduce unemployment and further grow the economy of the State.

    Similarly, government through the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment and the Lagos State Technical and Education Board (LASTVEB) is retraining tradesmen and artisans in the state to enhance their productivity and upgrade their skills.  This training exposes them to modern trends and practice in their profession, thereby giving them a competitive edge. So far, 500 artisans have been retrained and certified. To complement this training, government is to provide an online portal for certified artisan and MSMES to serve as online market place for them and act as a platform for them to showcase their products and services to the world.

    In the area of engendering a smart city through technology, efforts are presently underway, to ensure that all Lagos residents are captured on the data bank through the Lagos State Residence Registration Agency (LASRRA). To achieve this, government is presently working towards the upgrade of LASSRA. The identification card to be issued to residents will also be enabled to pay for public transport services such as tolls and Bus Rapid Transit.  The availability of adequate data on residents aside from helping government in planning, will boost credit services, help track traffic offenders and criminals in general.

    Also, government is promoting e-governance through its Citizens Relations Management (CRM) initiative (www.citizensgate.Lagosstate.gov.ng), to facilitate interaction between government and the citizens and also provide some services to the public online without them having to come to the government offices. One of the automated government services which the public is yet to be making adequate use of is the e-planning permit system (e-pp). The platform (www.lagosepp.com.ng), allows members of the public to obtain building approval within 30 days at the comfort of their homes or offices. This development is expected to encourage compliance with planning regulation.

    A one-stop shop, the Office of Overseas Affairs and Investment has also been created to eliminate multi-agency interface and ensure prospective local and foreign investors have a memorable experience while setting up their businesses in Lagos State. The agency also has an After Care Directorate that helps existing businesses in thriving and expanding.

    Also, the importance of a stable power supply to drive technology and engender a smart city cannot be over-emphasized. To achieve this objective, the state government is presently looking beyond the hitherto captive power which has generated about 48 kilowatts for dedicated state government facilities, to embedded power in clusters. In this regard, a technical committee set up by the governor is working towards the delivery of 350MW off grid electricity by the first quarter of 2018, 1200MW by the third quarter of 2018, and an ultimate target of 3000MW by 2022, through the network of Eko and Ikeja Distribution companies.

    Governor Ambode has further demonstrated his authenticity, by not pretending to have all the answers to the challenges of governing a megacity and allowing the private sector to bring independent perspective to governance through various committees such as the Economic Advisory Committee and the Advisory Committee on Power, among others. Also, with the recent inauguration of the Lagos State Research and innovation Council, which will make available funds to translate research works and innovations into commercial activities, the private sector has been further challenged to engender a knowledge driven economy in Lagos State.

    So, while Lagos may not have the kind of resources of some affluent cities such as Tokyo and New York, it is at least gratifying that Governor Ambode is doing things differently and using the limited state resources judiciously, to build a more efficient and functional megacity.

     

    • Dina, a Public Relation Practitioner writes from Lagos.
  • Be prudent, Ambode tells council chiefs

    Be prudent, Ambode tells council chiefs

    •57 local govts chairs take oath

    Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday swore in the elected local government chairmen and councillors, charging them to be accountable and transparent in the management of resources.

    At the ceremony held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Alausa, Ikeja, he said having crossed the election hurdle, they must settle down for real governance.

    He said: “At the state level, so much is being done to harness the potential of our state and make it a preferred destination for local/foreign investors and tourists. We are implementing policies and programmes that will promote socio-economic activities and maximise the economic potential of the three senatorial zones of the state. This is in line with our commitment to ensure inclusive growth and create opportunities for wealth and job creation.

    “As you (council chiefs) settle down to the business of governance, you must bear in mind that the participation of the people in governance does not end with elections. The people must be carried along and given the opportunity to have a say in policy making process and implementation. It is from you that we get the feedback of the people. You must be accountable and transparent in the management of the resources put in your care for the benefit of the people.”

    Ambode warned the council chiefs against discrimination, saying the dividends of good governance must be fairly distributed to the people without prejudice to political affiliation, gender, religion or ethnic background. He added that the cosmopolitan nature of the state must also be factored into all decisions.

    The governor hailed the court of Appeal verdict which set aside the judgement of the Federal High Court, empowering the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to regulate transportation and sand dredging in the state. The development, he said, would go a long way to aid the state in abating flood.

    “I am delighted to inform you that the state has recorded a major success in its quest to control its resources and enshrine the true spirit of fiscal federalism. On July 18, the Court of Appeal Lagos Division allowed the appeal of the Lagos State Government and set aside the Federal High Court judgment which gave NIWA power to regulate transportation and sand dredging.

    “The era of uncontrolled dredging is over and this serves as a clear warning that the Lagos State Government will now take firm control over its inland waterways and the adjoining lands including all sand dredging activities. This will further aid our efforts in abating flood in the state,” he said.

    Earlier, Secretary to the State Government Mr Tunji Bello said the council election confirmed that democratic institutions were strong and consolidating in the state.

    Bello urged the council chiefs to build on Ambode’s achievements by ensuring laudable development projects at the grassroots.

    Responding on behalf of others, Lagos Island East Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Chairman Kamal Bashua promised that they would hit the ground running.

    His Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye counterpart Rasak Ajala said: “We live among the people, and know what their expectations and aspirations are; therefore, our programmes would be tailored along that line so that at the end of our tenure, we would have succeeded in creating a people with great economic, social, and infrastructural prosperity.

    “As a government, we have five covenants we have made with our people. They are infrastructural development; social intervention, youths, sport and women development; capacity building and education; health and environment; governance and security.”

    LOCAL GOVERNMENTS CHAIRMEN

    1. Agbado Oke-odo Arogun Augistine Adeoye
    2. Agboyi Ketu Oladele Oshinowo
    3. Agege Egunjobi Ganiyu Kola
    4. Ajeromi Ifelodun Ayoola Fatai Adekunle
    5. Alimosho Sulaimon Jelili Adewale
    6. Amuwo Odofin Buraimoh Valentine Oluwaseyi
    7. Apapa Iganmu Muhammed Akande Funmilayo
    8. Apapa Adele Elijah Owolabi
    9. Ayobo Ipaja Yusuf Sakiru Adisa
    10. Badagry Onilude Olusegun Adeniran
    11. Badagry West Gbenu Henugbe Joseph
    12. Bariga Alabi Kolade David
    13. Coker Aguda Akinyemi-obe Omobolanle
    14. Egbe Idimu Sanyaolu Kunle Olowoopejo
    15. Ejigbo Bello Monsuru Oloyede
    16. Epe Adesanya Adenola Adedoyin
    17. Eredo Saliu Adeniyi Rasaq
    18. Eti-osa East Olufunmi Rafiu Olatunji
    19. Eti-osa Bankole Kuye Adesegun Saheed
    20. Iba Oseni Adedayo Rahmat Rachel
    21. Ibeju Lekki Surakat Semiu Olorunkemi
    22. Ifako Ijaiye Oke Oloruntoba
    23. Ifelodun Shuaib Fatai Ajidagba
    24. Igando Ikotun Adesina- Williams Morenike
    25. Igbogbo Baiyeku Olusesan Mayokun Daini
    26. Ijede Salisu Fatiu Jimoh
    27. Ikeja Balogun Mojeed Alabi
    28. Ikorodu North Banjo Adeola Adebisi
    29. Ikorodu Adesina Ayodeji Wasiu
    30. Ikorodu West Ademehin Olajumoke Ganiat
    31. Ikosi Ejirin Onanuga Samson Adeniyi
    32. Ikosi Isheri Oyesanya Abdulfatai Ayodele
    33. Ikoyi Obalende Atanda-lawal Fuad Abimbola
    34. Imota Agoro Wasiu Kunle
    35. Iru-victoria Island Adu Rasheedat Abiodun
    36. Isolo Olaleye Shamsudeen Abiodun
    37. Itire Ikate Apatira Hammed Olanrewaju
    38. Kosofe Sofola Afolabi Babatunde
    39. Lagos Island East Salau-bashua Kamal Olawale
    40. Lagos Island Olusi Tijani Adetoyese
    41. Lagos Mainland Essien Ajala Omolola Rashidat
    42. Lekki Ogidan Mukandasi Olaitan
    43. Mosan Okunola Adebajo Olabisi Doris
    44. Mushin Bamigboye Emmanuel Olarenwaju
    45. Odi-olowo Ojuwoye Ajala Rasaq Olusola
    46. Ojo Idowu Rasulu Olusola
    47. Ojodu Oloro Julius Olumuyiwa
    48. Ojokoro Tijani Hammed Idowu
    49. Olorunda Olatunde Samson Folorunso
    50. Onigbongbo Oke Francis Babatunde
    51. Oriade Akinlola Hassan Ramotalai
    52. Orile Agege Sunday Babatunde
    53. Oshodi Isolo Muse Ariyoh Bolaji Idris
    54. Oto Awori Ashafa Musibau Adekunle Prince
    55. Somolu Abdul-hammed Salawu
    56. Surulere Ajide Yomi Tajudeen Yusuff
    57. Yaba Omiyale Kayode Adejare
  • Ambode confident Lagos can generate 3,000MW

    Ambode confident Lagos can generate 3,000MW

    Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode yesterday expressed optimism that the state’s reforms targeting 3,000 megawatts (MW) of power in the next few years is achievable.

    The governor spoke at the opening of the seventh annual public lecture of the Lagos State Public Service Chapter (LSPSC) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) with the theme: Lagos@50: Unlocking Its Economic Potentials For Sustainable Development.

    The governor said he was confident that the initiative would go a long way in scaling up the state’s economy and make life more comfortable for the residents.

    He noted that sufficient power supply is a key factor to unlock the economic potentials of the state.

    Ambode said the sector remained strategic in reducing the cost of doing business and improving the living condition of Lagos residents.

    The governor noted that the theme for the lecture was in line with the resolve of his administration to identify, explore and exploit the untapped potentials of the Lagos economy.

    According to him, this is why the state government adopted the approach of strategic, innovative and long-term thinking and planning.

    Ambode added that the state has a high population growth of 3.2 per cent annually, high immigration rate estimated to be one of the highest in the world and rapid urbanisation.

    The governor said the state government was not oblivious of the fact that the most effective and efficient way to unlock the economic potentials of Lagos is to open up the economy for private enterprise to thrive.

    He said this was why his administration had been delivering first-class infrastructure and putting in place the right policies to ensure business-friendly environment.

     

     

    Ambode said the ongoing projects at the Eastern and Western axis of the state as well as the Lagos Marina and Onikan were part of his administration’s plan to unlock the tourism, entertainment and arts potentials of the state which he said were also critical.

    He said: “Lagos State is also actively involved in the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN), a body comprising all the Southwestern states. Through DAWN and other platforms, we are working on a collaborative development plan, a regional economic integration which will help to minimise some of our current challenges, such as high immigration, infrastructure deficit and traffic congestion.”

     

     

    Besides regional collaboration, Ambode said his administration had also entered into several partnerships – locally and internationally.

    The governor said the Lake Rice project, which has been very successful, was being taken to a new level with the establishment of value chain for agricultural commodities, such as rice, groundnut, pepper, among others.

    He said the government alone could not implement all the reforms, adding that accountants in the state’s public service should see themselves as key stakeholders in bringing about the desired outcome.

    Ambode urged them to be the best in their endeavours and help to strengthen the financial base of the state to facilitate the execution of infrastructural projects vital to the state’s economic growth and development.

    ICAN President Isma’ila Zakari described Lagos State as a typical example of sustainable development in Nigeria.

    He said it was important for other states to learn from the Lagos experience and apply same to address their challenges.

    Zakari, who was represented by Dr Innocent Okwuosa, said: “Lagos is a shining example in Nigeria. If every other state in Nigeria follows what Lagos is doing, perhaps all the issues confronting us as a nation would have been resolved. Lagos has got human capital and good leadership exemplified by the accountant at the helm of affairs in the state.

    “Sustainable development is inclusive development and that is what Lagos is doing.”

    He assured that the deliberations at the lecture would be properly documented and put into consideration by ICAN’s Council.

     

     

  • Ambode to swear in 57 council chairmen today

    Ambode to swear in 57 council chairmen today

    LAGOS State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode will today inaugurate the 57 newly elected Local Government Chairmen.

    The ceremony is billed for the Adeyemi Bero Hall, Alausa.

    Yesterday, the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) issued Certificates of Return to the winners of Saturday’s election.

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) won the chairmanship seats in the 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state.

    The APC also won 369 councillorship seats while the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) won four seats, and Accord Party, three.

    The PDP won the seats in Agege Local Government Area (LGA) Ward C, Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Ward A, Ikorodu LGA Ward G, and Oriade LCDA Ward A.

    Accord Party won in Agege LGA Ward E, Ikosi-Isheri LCDA Ward D and Shomolu/Kosofe Ward E.

    Twelve parties participated in the election.

    LASIEC chairperson Justice Ayotunde Phillips (retd) congratulated all winners and urged them to justify the confidence reposed in them.

    She urged those dissatisfied with the results to go to the Elections Petitions Tribunal as LASIEC has no power to settle election disputes.

    She said the law on council election disputes was clear.

    “Pursuant to the Local Government Elections Tribunal Law Cap L75 (Laws of Lagos State, 2004), any political party that has any grievances should forward such to the Elections Petitions Tribunal as the Commission has no power to settle any disputes arising from the conduct of the elections,” Phillips said.

    She praised Lagosians for their support during the polls, noting that party, religious and community leaders, the electorate, royal fathers, security personnel, election personnel, the press and other stakeholders were helpful.

    Phillips said the commission “worked tirelessly to guarantee fairness and justice for all the parties and their candidates,” in fulfilment of its pledge to provide a level playing field.

    She noted “the spirit of camaraderie and brotherhood displayed by party agents at polling units” where she and members of the Forum of State Independent Electoral Commissions of Nigeria (FOSIECON) monitored the elections.

    “This is the right way to go if we really desire development and growth in the various communities of the state,” Phillips said.

    Lagos State APC chairman Henry Ajomale, who was at the presentation, commended the commission for the successful conduct of the election.

    He said the APC’s performance clearly showed that the party was popular among Lagosians.

    Ajomale said the party would continue to justify the confidence reposed in it by providing quality leadership to Lagos residents.

    “The victory is a measure of our popularity; we will continue to provide quality leadership to justify the confidence reposed in us,” he said.

    Mr Toba Oke, chairman-elect for Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, said he was so happy at his election.

    He said he would use the opportunity to improve the lives of the people in his area.

  • State creation hampered South West development – Governors

    State creation hampered South West development – Governors

    Southwest governors on Monday lamented the splitting of the old Western Nigeria into six states by the Federal Government, saying the action not only robbed the people of their oneness, but also hampered the region’s socio – economic development.

    The governors – Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Akinwunmi Ambode (Lagos), Senator Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), Ayo Fayose Ekiti) and Rotimi Akeredolu (Ondo), spoke during the Southwest Governors’ Quarterly meeting held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

    Amosun, the host Governor in his welcome speech, said instead of building bridges, state creation led to boundary disputes and security challenges among them.

    The governor recalled that many landmark achievements were recorded in Yoruba land during the time of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, as Premier of the Western Region.

    He advised that the time has come for them to unite, promote and re – enact the achievements of the South-West in the Nigerian Federation.

    Amosun said: “As a region, it is important that we promote the pre-eminence and achievements of the South-West in the Nigerian Federation. This in reference and in particular to the greatness we have achieved as a people when we were together as a regional government in Nigeria.

    “We will recall those laudable feats made us the envy of other regions. Time and space will, definitely, not permit me to begin to list the giant leaps that the South-West took as a region between 1957 and 1967 particularly under the leadership of the late sage, Chief Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo.

    “Permit me to list a few. We have physical infrastructure such as the Cocoa House at Ibadan, which was aptly named after the source of its funding; the Agodi Secretariat at Ibadan; and the different roads that connect our towns and cities some of which are still standing the test of time. We also have the educational infrastructure of which we are still benefitting from today.

    ” Indeed, many of us seated in this room are beneficiaries of the Free Education Programme of that time. It is the same Free Education Programme that culminated in the establishment of a University that was once the most beautiful campus in Sub-Sahara Africa, the then University of Ife, and now appropriately named the Obafemi Awolowo University, at Ile-Ife.

    “We cannot also forget the economic infrastructure; we have the O’odua Group as the umbrella Investment House for the commercial enterprise of the region such as the Sketch Publication; the Wemabod Estates; the Lafia Hotels; the Premier Hotel at Ibadan; the Area J4 Forest Reserve and others.

    “However, the creation of states from the old Western Region in 1976 which should have been an impetus for further socio-economic development had been allowed to create artificial boundaries between our people.

    “And to further worsen the situation, some of our people are also making themselves available as instruments of division because of their selfish political gains. The consequence is that our people begin to see themselves as a people of one state or the other rather than as a sub-unit of the entity of the Yoruba people.

    “This is not without its attendant challenges of intra and inter-state boundary disputes which have worsened security in some states and, hampered socio-economic development. Instead of building bridges, some of our people are digging trenches for protection against their own brothers and sisters.

    “My dear brothers, the onerous task on our hands is to lead our people to further prosperous living. That is why the chosen agenda for this meeting ‘Economic Self-Determination for South-West Nigeria’ with special focus on ‘South-Western Nigeria Export Initiative’ is very apt.

    “Instead of the bowl-in–hand practice that each of the states seeks from the Federal Allocation, the time has come for us to map out strategies to harness the natural resources of the entire region for further socio-economic development of the South-West Region as a whole and for more prosperity for our people.

    For Aregbesola, the old Western Nigeria recorded greater feats when it operated as single state.

    “If we look critically at the achievements we had as singular state of Western Region. We must be mindful of the fact that as singular state then, we achieved more than now when we are divided into six states.

    “We must identify our strength, unify those strength and explore them for the benefit of our people. We use the development to galvanise our potentials,” Aregbesola said.