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Tag: Babajide Sanwo-Olu

  • Sanwo-Olu’s aide, council chief, others win awards

    Sanwo-Olu’s aide, council chief, others win awards

    Somolu Newspaper published in Lagos State has honoured individuals and corporate organisations with Somolu Newspaper Leadership Award. The event celebrated leadership, dedication, and impactful service, recognising those who influenced development and welfare of Somolu community.

    Among the recipients is Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Grassroots Sports, Adebanji Atewogboye, (Skibanji); AbdulHamed Salawu ‘Dullar’, chair of Somolu Local Government; Biodun Orekoya; Anisfield Nigeria Limited; security expert, Saheed Odubanjo; and CSP Kehinde Oni and ASP Akeem Muhammed.

    Atewogboye received ‘2024 Somolu Grassroots Sports Personality Award’ for his efforts in Grassroots Sports Development and youth empowerment. His initiatives have contributed to betterment of Somolu and Lagos.

    He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people, saying: “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in our projects. It motivates us to do more.”

    ‘Dullar’ got ‘2024 Somolu Man of the Year Award’. His administration has transformed the community through improvements in infrastructure, health, education, welfare, youth empowerment, and information and computer technology (ICT).

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    Anisfield, a company in the fight against drug abuse, was recognised for its contributions as ‘2024 Red Ribbon Company of the Year’. Its Chief Executive, Akeem Anifowoshe, accepted the award, noting importance of corporate involvement in social issues.

    Techsheperd Limited, founded by Olukolade Muhammed, special adviser to Somolu council chair on ICT, also got an award. Techsheperd has driven technological advancements in education in the community.

    Grassroots leaders and organisations that played roles in sectors also got awards. 

    Chairman of the awards, Sheriff Bada, noted importance of recognising and celebrating leadership.  “We aim to inspire others to contribute to development…’’

  • Sanwo-Olu to host 18th town hall meeting on security

    Sanwo-Olu to host 18th town hall meeting on security

    Preparations have been concluded for the 18th yearly Lagos State town hall meeting on security – a major summit for stakeholders in the sector.

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is the chief host of the meeting, which will hold at Lagos House, Ikeja on December 18.

    The theme of the meeting is: “Data & Technology Driven Security: The Way Forward”. Guests are expected to be seated by noon.

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    On the agenda is the presentation of patrol vehicles and other equipment to security operatives.

    Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) Executive Secretary, Rasaq Balogun, will render an account of his stewardship. Other security chiefs will also speak at the meeting.

    The Fund was established in 2007 to combat crime, especially bank robberies. To the credit of the Fund, there has been no bank robbery in the state in the last five years.

  • ‘Festival to create jobs, drive commerce’

    ‘Festival to create jobs, drive commerce’

    Lagos Shopping Festival, from December 23, will create jobs and drive trade, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said.

    Sanwo-Olu, unveiling the festival symbol, explained that the festival will support local businesses, attract global brands, and create direct and indirect employment through vendor participation, logistics, event and entertainment management.

    The festival is organised by government through Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Arts, with Tolaram Africa Group, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, and Chain Reactions Africa.

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    Sanwo-Olu said: “We are audacious people who dream big and think big. By December, Dubai will be holding the 30thDubai Shopping Festival. But we are just starting, and it is never too late.

    “Through the ministry, in April, we have had the proof of concept. We had a trade fair where sales in excess of N5 billion were recorded by just 245 vendors in three days. So, we have tested the concept, and we know it can only get bigger.

    “I am excited that this December, Lagos will join Istanbul, Dubai and others to host its own shopping festival as a broader strategy to market Lagos as a destination for business and leisure…’’

  • Iba to get transnational market

    Iba to get transnational market

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday  laid the foundation stone for an ultra-modern Alaba-Rago Transnational Market in Iba Local Government Council Development Area (LCDA).

    The governor was represented by Dr Olajide Babajide, his Special Adviser  on EGIS and Urban Development.

    He said that the re-development of the market  was in line with market transformation moves of his administration’s THEMES Plus Agenda.

    He said that the state government would work together with the Alaba-Rago community on the revitalisation, re-development and renewal of the market.

    According to him,  the market has been for a long time and is deteriorating.

    Sanwo-Olu said that after series of stakeholders meetings, the government conceived renewal of the market.

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    “We have just laid the foundation stone for the new Alaba-Rago Transnational Market.

    “This market belongs to Alaba-Rago people,” he said.

    The governor said that there was need for all parties involved in the project to remain true.

    He said that the  re-development  would involve the state and local governments,  market leaders,  the community and the  land owners.

    The governor assured traders, whose shops were demolished for the re-development, that they would be  allocated spaces on completion of the project within the next 24 months.

    Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Kayode Robert, who oversees market managementt, thanked the governor for the gesture.

    Chairman of Iba Local Council Development Area, Yisa Jubril, expressed gratitude to Sanwo-Olu  for further bringing development to the grassroots.

    The new Alaba-Rago Transnational Market, when completed in 24 months, will comprise more than 5,000 shops, an event hall and banks, among other facilities.

    The other facilities include a hotel, fire station, abbatior, place of worship, sewage treatment plant, police post, recreation centre and parking arena.

  • Remain peaceful in your communities, Sanwo-Olu urges residents 

    Remain peaceful in your communities, Sanwo-Olu urges residents 

    Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged all community associations to promote peace and unity within their communities, emphasising the importance of working together to safeguard the state’s progress.

    Sanwo-Olu made the call during the 2024 Community Day celebration, held at the Police College ground in Ikeja. It was organised by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, with the theme ‘Stronger Together: Building a Resilient Community’.

    The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, noted that the annual event has become a key platform for recognising the invaluable contributions of community development bodies across the state.

    He stressed the need for peaceful co-existence, particularly in the light of global challenges, and urged Lagosians to remain united, regardless of their religious, cultural, or social backgrounds.

    “As we celebrate today, I urge all Lagosians, represented by the over 5,000 Community Development Associations (CDAs) here, to continue supporting our shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous Lagos.

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    “Let us stay vigilant and united against any actions that may jeopardise our investments, infrastructure, or heritage. The consequences of destabilisation would be devastating for all of us,” he said. 

    The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of the people and ensuring their voices are heard. He emphasised that the theme aligned with the Lagos Resilience Strategy, which seeks to create a stronger, more adaptable city capable of overcoming both local and global challenges.

    The governor also outlined several initiatives his administration has undertaken in the last five years to help Lagosians adapt to economic and social pressures. 

    These include the EKO CARES programme, designed to cushion the impact of economic reforms, a 25 per cent reduction in BRT transport fares, a 35 per cent wage increase for civil servants, and other targeted interventions to support the people.

    “Through these innovative policies and interventions, we are working to mitigate the effects of both global and local economic challenges on our citizens.

    “Additionally, we have established the Non-Partisan Special Dispensation Advisory Council, which includes human rights activists, religious leaders, youth representatives, and members of opposition parties. This council ensures that our intervention programmess are inclusive, fair, and effective.”

    The Governor’s Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekini, praised the vital role of Community Development Associations (CDAs) as key stakeholders in the socio-economic development of Lagos.

    He highlighted the administration’s investments in critical infrastructure projects to include rural roads, electrification, among others.

  • Kosofe chief’s aide hails Sanwo-Olu

    Kosofe chief’s aide hails Sanwo-Olu

    Fatiah Akinrinlade

    An aide to the Kosofe Local Government Chairman, Dennis Joseph, has lauded Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s government of inclusiveness.

    Joseph said the governor has done well for the non-indigenes in Lagos State.

    He highlighted several key initiatives that have positively affected non-indigenes. These include the Sunday Market initiative, which provides subsidised food items, the Red Line Rail, and reduced public transport costs.

    He said: “The governor’s initiatives have been wonderful and recommendable. The non-indigene community has benefited immensely from his policies, particularly in areas such as food, transportation, healthcare, housing, security, and road infrastructure.

    In transportation, Lagos is the best in Africa. The Red Line Rail has been launched and the Non-Indigene community in Lagos is using the Red Line Rail. You can agree with me that transportation accidents have drastically reduced in Lagos State. The traffic light is working; the roads are good and maintained regularly.

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    In the health care, I can attest to you that the non-indigene community benefits immensely from the government’s healthcare initiative. The non-indigene community is law abiding; we abide by the laws of Lagos State government. We also often organise free medical care for the eye, blood sugar, Genotype etc.”

    He praised the governor for ensuring social inclusion, youth development, and cultural vibrancy across board.

    “We are grateful for Governor Sanwo-Olu’s listening ear and commitment to our well-being. The governor’s initiatives have fostered a sense of belonging among non-indigenes, demonstrating his dedication to inclusive governance,” he added.

    Joseph, however, called on the governor to address the specific challenges faced by the community as contained in their letter and reminder letters to the governor’s office.

  • Banana Island sets benchmark in luxury living, says Sanwo-Olu

    Banana Island sets benchmark in luxury living, says Sanwo-Olu

    • Governor unveils new safety, luxury projects for residents

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said Banana Island is a standard setter in luxury living.

    The governor said this when he inaugurated a series of projects aimed at elevating the estate’s exclusivity and community standards.

    “Banana Island has set a benchmark in Lagos, not only for luxury living but for creating a secure and structured environment that epitomises the vision of a modern, thriving Lagos.

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    “Today’s projects are proof of the collective commitment of the residents and BIPORAL towards building a community that supports a high quality of life and security for its people,” said Sanwo-Olu.

    The governor inaugurated the projects in conjunction with the Banana Island Property Owners and Residents Association (BIPORAL).

    The grand ceremony, hosted by Banana Island’s outgoing Chairman Frank Aigbogun, celebrated the completion of an ultra-modern estate gate, a state-of-the-art administrative building, the Banana Island Boat Club, an advanced firefighting truck, two world-class tennis courts, and two AstroTurf football fields.

    Aigbogun, also remarked on the significance of the projects, stating; “Today marks a defining moment for Banana Island. These projects symbolise our resolve to build not just a residence, but a sanctuary that offers the finest amenities, while safeguarding our community.

    We thank our partners and the Lagos State Government for their unwavering support in realising this vision.”

    The newly elected Chairman, Ambassador Abidemi Oluwagbemiga Sonoiki, expressed his gratitude and his vision for the future of the estate.

    He said: “It is an honor to serve this prestigious community. As a newly elected Chairman, my commitment is to build on today’s achievements, continuously improve our facilities, and foster an environment where innovation, security, and quality of life converge seamlessly. I look forward to working with the residents and partners to drive further developments that will keep Banana Island at the pinnacle of luxury living.”

    Other important dignitaries who graced the occasion includes, Adeoye Oduroye; Executive Director Providus Bank, Olumide Odunuga; Head, General Services, First Bank, Jay Jay Okocha, Mrs Danjuma and other residents.

    The event concluded with a reception and a guided tour of the newly commissioned facilities, showcasing the estate’s commitment to both cutting-edge amenities and robust community infrastructure.

  • Lagos promises more jobs

    Lagos promises more jobs

    As the population of Lagos continues to increase, currently estimated at 21 million, Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stated that the government is focused on achieving a balance between job creation and positively influencing inflation.

    Speaking at the graduation ceremony for artisans and tradesmen, Sanwo-Olu said there was an ongoing campaign aimed at assisting Lagos residents in securing well-paying employment and acquiring world-class skills, with the objective of decreasing the nation’s unemployment rate.

    He stated that the government  was committed to equipping artisans and tradesmen with the necessary skill sets to deliver quality services, safeguard their standard of living, and contribute to the development of a more robust and resilient Nigerian economy.

    His words: “The world is changing quickly. Technology is getting better, and people want different things. The skills you have learned will help you keep up with these changes and find new opportunities. You now have the knowledge and skills to do greater things. You are the backbone of our economy. You make things, fix things, and create beautiful and useful things. By getting better at your jobs, you are not only helping yourselves, but you are also helping Lagos State grow and prosper. We are committed to helping you do well. We have trained over 7,400 people like you, and we have given many of you tools and money to start or grow your businesses. We are also working with businesses to create more opportunities for you.”

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    He said by providing them with essential knowledge, practical skills, and an innovative mindset, they are not only enhancing their livelihoods but also playing a vital role in developing a competitive workforce that will drive Lagos into a new era of advancement.

    “You are our vehicle to building a brighter tomorrow,” he said.

    A total of 1,200 individuals have received up-skilling, including 800 artisans and 400 tradesmen. The training programmes span across the three Senatorial districts of the state. He also announced an increase in the annual subvention to the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans (LASCOTA) from N12 million to N15 million, and mentioned that the association will receive a new bus.

    Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, described the Up-skilling of Artisans and Tradesmen initiative as a noteworthy socio-economic intervention by the State Government. The initiative, he noted, exemplifies the commitment of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration to ensure that practicing artisans swiftly adapt to the evolving dynamics of their respective trades. He said: “The Up-skilling of Artisans and Tradesmen training is designed to equip artisans with essential technical and entrepreneurial skills, thereby enhancing their efficiency and productivity to enable them to compete effectively in the marketplace.”

    According to him, the training ensures that artisans   become 21st Century complaints in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S. plus development Agenda which includes; Social inclusion, Gender-equality and Youth Empowerment .The theme “Building a brighter Tomorrow: Through skills and innovation” of Up.

  • Brotherly states

    Brotherly states

    It is what happens when ideas and humans conjoin. It is a pivotal example of brotherly states. Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno came to Lagos for the groundbreaking event of an 18-story building. With him was the BOS of Lagos, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. It is a testament to the vision of the state of Akwa Ibom, and it is testament to the environment of prosperity created by Lagos. Wealth works with fertile minds, and the event only shows how two states can put things together for mutual glory.

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    They are not physical neighbours, but the best neighbours are in the heart, not heath. Governor Eno says he wants to grow the revenue base of his state. He chose right by investing in the gold standard in generating revenue. Governor Sanwo-Olu says, “it will serve as a beacon of alliance between Lagos and Akwa Ibom” in the world of business. This was a better fitting news for the BOS than a rancid rumour about a court case. That bad moment is now outside the radar. When water enters water, none can separate them. so, we don’t only have brotherly states, but more importantly, they are in a brotherly state.

  • Sanwo-Olu mourns as Lagos LG chairman dies at 54

    Sanwo-Olu mourns as Lagos LG chairman dies at 54

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the death of the Chairman, Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos State, Oladotun Olakanle as a personal loss to him.

    Olakanle died in the early hours of Saturday after a brief illness at the age of 54.

    Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence message issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, described Olakanle’s death as a colossal loss to Onigbongbo LCDA, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the state as a whole.

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    Part of the statement reads:

     “On behalf of my family, the people, and the government of Lagos State Government, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the residents of Onigbongbo LCDA on the death of the council Chairman, Hon. Oladotun Olakanle. His death was a personal loss to me and a painful loss to his council and Lagos State.

    “I am saddened by the death of this fine gentleman, a loyal party man and committed democrat and public officer who had a deep understanding of local government administration and the political landscape.

    “Hon. Olakanle was a loyal politician and an invaluable asset to the All Progressives Congress (APC).