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Tag: Lagos House

  • Lagos House of Drama

    Lagos House of Drama

    TO many Nigerians, the Lagos State House of Assembly is the best in the country, judging by its democratic and progressive antecedents.

    Its immeasurable contributions to robust legislative governance, right from when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was the governor between 1999 and 2007, remain indelible.

    Therefore, it is in the state’s interest that the Executive and Legislature stay focused and collaborative, and do away with any form of acrimony that can jeopardise separation of powers and checks and balances.

    Slso, the Lagos progressive bloc should tap from the ideas and experience of the old order, particularly its enduring and rewarding belief in the supremacy of the Party Caucus. The idea is that the party is supreme under the parliamentary or presidential system. No premier, governor, speaker, or lawmaker can grow wings. The corollary is discipline.

    Thus, a crisis between a governor and the speaker is supposed to be nipped in the bud through early and prompt intervention by the elders who are perceived as the conscience of the party and custodians of its ethos, ethics, and traditions.

    The semblance of that highest party leadership structure held in reverence in Lagos is the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). It is naturally expected that the gerontocrats in that elevated class would wade into the crisis between the heads of the two organs of government.

    There is no smoke without fire. The drama that played out during last week’s budget presentation clearly showed that something is amiss. The peace within the party is incomplete when there is some inexplicable misunderstanding or communication gap between the governor and the speaker.

    It is generally agreed that the achievements of the four governors – Tinubu, Babatunde Fashola, Akinwunmi Ambode, and Babajide Sanwo-Olu – were possible due to the robust vision and focus on the 24-year-old development blueprint and support of the state legislature as a partner in progress.

    There have been a few occasional unsavory moments in the Assembly. We recall when the 1999 set of lawmakers threw chairs and the hallowed chamber became a curious house of commotion, and much later when the relationship between Fashola and Speaker Yemi Ikuforiji momentarily turned sour and when Sanwo-Olu’s commissioners’ list was rejected. Yet, the Lagos Assembly has been the bastion of democracy, ever ready to defend the interests of the highly heterogeneous residents.

    Lagos has also been lucky to have a legislature midwifed by the progressive parties – Alliance for Democracy (AD), Action Congress (AC), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and All Progressives Congress (APC). Up to now, the progressives have been in the majority. Even, lawmakers elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) always defected to the ruling party.

    Although there is the eclipse of ideological politics in Nigeria, there are allusions to the time-tested ideals of welfarism in the Assembly and in the State Executive Council (Exco), which the founding fathers of the defunct Western Region held dear.

    In the last five years, evidence of friction between Sanwo-Olu and Speaker Mudashiru Obasa abounds. This is known to the party leadership and other stakeholders. The governor is calm and reticent about it in the public glare. Sanwo-Olu does not have the traits of Serubawon of Osun, who instigated the invasion of the House of Assembly by thugs, disrupted plenary, and sacked the lawmakers.

    The governor is not combative. Unlike OBJ, he is not angling for a third term. For him, it seems there is no cause for alarm.

     However, those conversant with Lagos politics may find out that whenever any Speaker dares the governor, the entire matter may be beyond b the Speaker. The partridge that dances by the roadside has a drummer in the bush.

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    During the first term, the party leadership waded into the unknown rift the way it should. But the feud reared its head at the onset of the second term when the House sent back the list of commissioner-nominees to the chief executive. It indicated that there was no free flow of souls.

    But last week’s theatrics during the budget presentation make an urgent and strategic intervention by the party leadership more compelling. The reason is that a crisis breeds more crises.

    The display at plenary revealed a sort of suppressed infighting within the ruling party. Many were taken aback. In most cases, a budget presentation is like a partisan festival of reunion, a pledge to rededicate and reiterate commitment to service delivery; a mandatory request for parliamentary approval for appropriation.

    On that day, there was no cordiality. It was as if the Exco and the legislature came from different political parties. The parliamentary culture may have conceded to the lawmakers the line of protocol because the House of Assembly is its territory. The governor’s advance party was dazed to see that the parliament was not yet in session. When the parliamentarians arrived, the usual conviviality was absent. The lawmakers are well educated, intelligent and vibrant children and protégés of the old war horses; a composition that shows that Lagos politics is somehow designed, partly, for the projection of the children of legends.

    As the APC lawmakers stormed the hallowed chambers, people suspected something was fishy. The honourable members are not cultists. They only appeared in customised dark goggles. They exercised the freedom and right to choose that dress code.

    Then, Mr. Governor walked in, like an ordinary figure, while a lawmaker was making a speech. The lawmaker tried to pause; the Speaker beckoned on him to continue. After that, there was no time to waste. The ‘Budget of Sustainability’ was delivered in an atmosphere of sustained discord. The document was laid before the House. Then, the deputy governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, left the chambers.

    The Assembly passed a vote of confidence in the Speaker. Then, a momentary tension engulfed the Assembly as Obasa started making his speech. The environment became a platform for venting anger. It was apparent that the Speaker was reacting to some issues that were beyond the comprehension of the uninitiated. However, it was not clear whether the governor was the exclusive target.

    Obasa affirmed the Independence of the Assembly, which he likened to “a sanctuary and temple”. He said just like every other temple anywhere where we all worship, no one would violate any temple and expect the gods to accept his or her sacrifice.

    He added: “If such happens, there must be an appeasement to the gods to accept such atonement. No amount of intimidation or coercing will disintegrate or change the belief of all the members of this institution.”

    If the temple had been violated, how it happened or whether it was about to be violated was not disclosed.

    As if he was responding to a threat from the Exco quarters, Obasa also stressed: “This institution remains resolute. We will never be disgraced, abused, or ridiculed in the name of creating a seamless working ambiance.”

    Then, discarding any kind of pretensions or diplomacy, the Speaker retorted: “Those who live in glass houses must not throw stones, as the saying goes. This also brings to my mind, according to our people: eni ba yara l’oogun ngbe.” (Meaning: the god of iron aids the swift). In other words, those who facilitated or planned to interfere in this House or destroy the cohesion of the institution should also be prepared for the same fate.”

    The interpretation any observer would give the statement is: “I will strike you before you strike me.”

    In the last 21 years, Obasa has been a member of the Assembly representing Agege. Now, there are speculations that the Speaker is warming up for the Lagos APC governorship primary that will hold in about three years.

    In a breath, Obasa said he had not given serious thought to it, despite the complaints by “blackmailers”, “detractors” and “naysayers,” who had distorted facts and “misconstrued” his intention. He explained that the focus of his mobilisation within the chapter was to build support for the party on the platform of the entrenched and powerful caucus, Mandate.

     Incidentally, the governor belongs to Mandate.

    Naturally, the mobilisation by Obasa may upset the older and influential caucus, the “Justice Forum,” and to some extent, the “Ideal.”

    But, in another dimension, the Speaker boasted that “nevertheless, that does not mean I am too young or lack experience to run”.

    Obasa declared that if he becomes governor, “those who have been before me are not better off.” Those who have been elected governors of Lagos are Lateef Jakande, Michael Otedola, Tinubu, Fashola, Ambode, and Sanwo-Olu. Past military governors are Mobolaji Johnson, Adekunle Lawal, Ndubusi Kanu, Ebitu Ukiwe, Gbolahan Mudashiru, Mike Akhigbe, Raji Rasaki, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and Buba Marwa.

    Indigenship has never been a major factor in Lagos politics, as far as the governorship slot is concerned. The Speaker fired salvos at undisclosed persons trying to blackmail him on the basis of the factor.

    He said: “It is also important to correct the impression from some naysayers who have been insinuating that I made payment to seek for blood relation in Ojo to validate my candidacy to run as governor.

    “Of course, I have never denied that I am Obasa. Rather, I have never claimed to be related to Onikoyi, Oniru, or any other popular Lagos families, as the case may be. I can never run from the fact that I am related to my Obasa family in Ojo. But I do not need local validity to contest or run. If eventually I am contesting, I will do so from Agege.”

    The scenarios all pale into politics; this is about conflicts, the struggle for power, and competition for influence.

    What can also be deduced from all of the above is that all is not totally well in Lagos APC where the heads of the executive and legislative arms seem to be at loggerheads.

    This should not be allowed to continue. Chieftains should be in one accord. Combatants should pull the brakes and sheathe their swords. There is a need for a truce.

    Also, there is much to be accomplished by the Sanwo-Olu administration. The governor needs the support of all.

    As it is often canvased by political scientists, the ruling executive should also conduct the business of the state in utter sensitivity to the presence of a very active, strong, united and virile legislature. In the same vein, the parliament has to be less inflexible and more condescending. These are critical to the building of a harmonious Executive/Legislative relationship.

    Reconciliation can be brokered by the GAC. But the only leader who can really whip all to line, enforce compliance and restore peace is the Commander-in-Chief. He is the President of all Nigerians. Besides, Lagos is his base. A stitch in time saves nine.

  • Ambode swears-in five new perm secs

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja swore-in five new Permanent Secretaries into the State Civil Service.

    The appointees are Dr. Olabisi Taiwo (Ministry of Health), Mr. Olusegun Ajibade (Public Service Office), Mrs. Abiayo Akinsiku (Primary Healthcare Board), Dr. Yusuf Jimoh (Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations), and Mr. Ganiyu Rufai (Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives).

    Ambode charged them to place high premium on efficient service delivery and work to make the machinery of governance to roll faster in the overall interest of the people.

    The governor told them to bring their wealth of experience and knowledge to bear in their respective Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and to go all-out to meet the high expectations of not only government but the teeming population of the State.

    “With this appointment, you have all effectively become the Accounting Officer of your MDAs. You have been entrusted with a bigger and more sensitive responsibility which will put to test your leadership and managerial skills.

    “Let me remind you of the very high expectations that will be placed on you, not only from the government but more importantly, from the over 22 million Lagosians who desire efficient and service delivery.

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    “Your ability to meet these expectations will depend on the amount of creativity and innovation you can bring to bear in the discharge of your responsibilities.

    “Nobody expects you to reinvent the wheel. What is expected of you is to bring to bear your knowledge and experience so that the machinery of governance can roll faster and deliver more quality results to the teeming population of our State,” the Governor counseled the appointees.

    While congratulating the new Permanent Secretaries, the Governor pointed out that the elevation was strictly based on merit as evidenced by their outstanding performance, commitment and dedication to duty over the years, saying they must work to justify their appointments.

    Responding on behalf of the new Permanent Secretaries, Taiwo expressed gratitude to God and the governor for the opportunity to serve the State at the highest level in the civil service, just as she assured that they would not betray the confidence reposed in them but rather uphold the principles of public service.

  • Lagos crucial to Nigeria’s economic stability, growth – World Bank                       

    Lagos crucial to Nigeria’s economic stability, growth – World Bank                       

    …We’re evolving a viable transportation system, says Ambode

    The World Bank on Thursday said that the role of Lagos to Nigeria’s stability and growth could not be overemphasized, as the State remains the economic gateway to the country and for the rest of the world.

    Country Director of World Bank, Mr. Rachid Benmessaoud who spoke when he paid a courtesy visit to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode at the Lagos House in Ikeja, said the giant strides being recorded by the present administration in the State had received global attention, adding that the World Bank was proud to be part of the transformation.

    “Nigeria needs Lagos, Lagos is a huge part of the growth for the country and the growth is about job creation and stability of the country. We are really honored to have been your partner and we would be honoured to continue the partnership.

    “We really acknowledge the national, regional and local importance of Lagos being the gateway to Nigeria and for the rest of the world. There is a success story that is being told not only in Nigeria but globally and that success story is really thanks to the leadership that you (Ambode) brings in with a clarity of vision and also the speed by which you take decisions and implement programmes and projects,” Benmessaoud said.

    He attested to the fact that the engagements the World Bank have had with Lagos have been unique in Nigeria, noting that as the existing partnerships were coming to a close, they were looking at other opportunities to build on the positive momentum and partner the State on its urban regeneration drive.

    “We are closing our ongoing portfolio which is very small right now, we would very much like to support you and go for the next generation of programmes that are responsive for your vision. We are very pleased to partner with you as you set an agenda for a transformative State,”

    He said the visit to the Governor, therefore, was to explore ways to build on the existing partnerships in the areas of transportation, energy and the environment towards meeting the growing demands of residents as well as attract more investors into the State.

    “The objective of the visit is to maintain and capitalize on the positive momentum that we have created through our partnership over many years and also to see how we can leverage that partnership in helping you, supporting you achieving your vision for the urban transformation in Lagos State that will enable you to create a livable city, bringing more jobs that will not only retain and expand the existing businesses but also attract new businesses and generate more revenue for the State and attracting the private sector,” he said.

    Responding, Governor Ambode thanked the World Bank for their partnership over the years, noting that they have contributed immensely to the success story of Lagos State, especially in the transportation sector.

    Alluding to the fact that Lagos was the first State in Nigeria to receive budget support from the World Bank, the Governor commended the successful execution of the three Development Policy Operations (DPOs), saying that the State has been able to show evidence that the partnership had been very successful.

    “It’s been very fruitful and we’ve become totally responsive to ensure that whatever it is that we are getting in terms of support from multilateral institutions, we show credibility also to show that we plan well for such support and we are willing to also continue to abide by international standard to ensure that whatever it is we are getting as support, it is used for the common good of every citizen in Lagos which is the whole essence of service,” the Governor said.

    Governor Ambode also said that his administration has fashioned out a work plan to integrate water, rail and road transport system to evolve a viable means through Lagosians can commute within the State with ease.

    “I think the new sets of proposal are the kind of strategy we should put for Lagos State and that’s what this visit speaks to. I will like to see a strong support in the transport sector, so that we have support for water, rail and other infrastructure that goes with it. Like I said, we already have a work plan that integrates the three together which we would share with the World Bank and also improve on our discussions in terms of advisory management, financing and also different kind of support that ultimately help us to deliver the dividends of democracy that we actually promised our people.

    “We are very serious that we want to improve on transportation, improve on environment and also power because we believe that’s the whole essence of making the State investor friendly.

    We have improved a lot on security and we just think that moving 23 million people on a daily basis in a comfortable way would mean that we will have to integrate our transport management system in such a way that you can move actually on water, using the rail also and then the road,” he said.

     

  • Lagos remains home to all tribes, nationalities – Ambode, Akiolu

    Lagos remains home to all tribes, nationalities – Ambode, Akiolu

    …Back Osinbajo’s Reconciliatory Moves on National Unity

     

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday commended the measures taken so far by the Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo and by extension the Federal Government to quell tensions generated by agitation from some ethnic nationalities seeking to break away from Nigeria, saying that the unity of the country should be of paramount importance to all.

    Governor Ambode, who spoke at Lagos House in Ikeja when he received on courtesy visit members of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs led by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, said as a State, Lagos would continue to support every effort made to keep the unity of the country especially by maintaining peace and accommodating all.

    Speaking against the backdrop of earlier comments by Akiolu to the effect that the Council of Obas and Chiefs in the State were solidly in support of the peaceful co-existence of people in the country, Governor Ambode said the oneness of the country was of the essence, and that it was important for every segment of the country to promote the unity of the nation.

    He said: “I also want to join the Chairman of Council of Obas and Chiefs in Lagos State to reiterate our support for the Federal Government to keep the unity of Nigeria and also uphold the tenets of the Constitution. We are very happy that all our traditional rulers in Lagos believe in oneness of Nigeria.

    “We are happy also that we are very accommodating. We are also happy that we allow people from other tribes to live with us and we are ready to do everything to support the Acting President and the Federal Government in general that every effort they make, we will ensure that Lagos remains peaceful and then Nigeria remains peaceful,” Governor Ambode assured.

    While reiterating the commitment of his administration to frontally address security issues in the State, Governor Ambode thanked the traditional rulers for supporting his efforts to ensure safety of lives and property in the State.

    “I want to thank you for your support in terms of security. You are part of the security architecture of Lagos State because without you, we will not get the information we are using to reach out to the police and I also want to thank you for supporting our Neighborhood Safety Corps initiative.

    “Like I said, it is about neighborhood safety and we have seen the hands of all our monarchs in the operation of the corps. We believe strongly that we need to put more efforts in the Neighborhood Safety Corps to make sure that this issue of kidnapping and other criminal activities become a thing of the past within the shortest possible time,” the Governor said.

    Speaking specifically on the children that were kidnapped at the Lagos State Model College, Igbonla-Epe, Governor Ambode said at the moment, he would not want to divulge details of efforts being made by government to end kidnapping and other crimes in the State, but expressed optimism that the efforts would yield positive results.

    “Like I said somewhere yesterday, I don’t like running government on the pages of newspapers because sometimes when we do it, it will jeopardize what we are doing on security which is why we have been very tactical about doing media trial in things like this.

    “But just to let our monarchs know what we are doing, I feel very bad each time I hear about this but again life and safety first thereafter we will deal with other things. But to let you know truly that sometimes, some of these kidnapping issues are actually from enemies within but I just pray that when the children comes back, we will be able to talk about those things and so I just ask people to give us some time as we gather intelligence,” he said.

    Earlier, Akiolu commended Governor Ambode for his efforts so far, and prayed for him to have a successful tenure of office, saying that the giant strides of the present government were appreciated.

    He also said that monarchs in the State were very much in support of the peaceful co-existence of the country, adding that every tribe is welcome in Lagos.

    “The peaceful co-existence of everybody is what we are after in Lagos and I have to say that Lagos is home to all,” Akiolu said.

    Besides, the monarch reiterated the call for Lagos to be granted Special Status, saying that doing so would be to the overall benefit of the country.

     

  • Ramadan: Why we are hosting Muslims in 20 Centres – Ambode

    Ramadan: Why we are hosting Muslims in 20 Centres – Ambode

     

    …Urges Monarchs, Religious, Community Leaders, Others to Participate

     

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday explained the rationale behind the decision of his administration to host Muslims in twenty centres across the State for the Eid-el-fitri celebration, saying that it was part of the strategy to bring about bonding among the people and enhance community participation in governance.

    Speaking at Lagos House when he received members of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs on a courtesy visit, Governor Ambode said it had been observed overtime that people travel from far and near to celebrate with the first family in the State during festivities, and that the decision to host Muslims in various centres across the State was basically to address such trend on one hand, and also to give greater number of people the sense of participation in governance on the other hand.

    He said: “Like you are aware, we intend to celebrate the Ramadan in the various communities and I need to make some explanation here. Before now, anytime we are having festivities maybe Ramadan, Christmas, New Year and so on, people normally converge at the State House to come and greet the first family and so you see people coming all the way from Badagry or coming all the way from Igbogbo or Epe and then they come to celebrate with us.

    “I find out that sometimes, they might even spend N3,000 to get here and go home with maybe N500 and so in my own little wisdom, I think if I make them remain in their communities and they celebrate there, there is likely a position for us to start to practice government of inclusion so that everybody feels government everywhere.

    “Instead of somebody coming from Badagry, the Local Government, the Community Development Associations (CDAs), the traditional rulers, the Chief Imams and every other person will celebrate the Ramadan and recital of Quran in their communities and so there is a sense of belonging and so instead of 2,000 people coming to Ikeja, I am likely to have one million people across the State doing the same thing at the same time and in doing that, they will get the sense of involvement. So, we must practice community governance using our different platforms to celebrate ourselves,” Governor Ambode explained.

    He said the same strategy was adopted during the Community Day Celebration and it worked perfectly well, adding that with the initiative, government would evolve community participation in governance and enhance the bonding among the people.

    The Governor said on his part, he would also make appearance in some of the centres to celebrate with the people, and urged the traditional rulers, community leaders, religious leaders among others to also join in the celebration.

    Governor Ambode also thanked the monarchs for pledging to support the moves by government to maintain peace, law and order, especially the pledge to do so during the forthcoming Local Government election in the State.

    Responding to a request to intervene in the crisis rocking the Lagos State Polytechnic (LASPOTECH), Governor Ambode said it was gratifying to announce that academic activities would resume in the institution immediately after the Eid-el-fitri holiday.

     

  • Ambode pledges support for first annual diaspora festival

    Ambode pledges support for first annual diaspora festival

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday pledged his administration’s commitment to make the first Annual Diaspora Festival in Badagry a major success, adding that a master plan that would prescribe strategies and programmes to boost the potentials of the ancient town was also underway.

    Governor Ambode, who spoke when he received a delegation of the first Annual Diaspora Festival led by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Diaspora, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, at the Lagos House, Ikeja, said the Government remains committed to partnerships that would explore the tourism potentials of the ancient town and its environs.

    Welcoming the idea of the Diaspora Festival billed to hold in Badagry on August 23, 2017, the Governor pledged his administration’s commitment to expand the scope of the Festival in order to ensure that it becomes a major event in the State’s tourism calendar every year.

    “This is a rebirth for us. I have always been looking forward to see what it is that I can do more to the Badagry axis, so I am excited that this delegation has been put up.

    “I have visited Badagry more than five times, I have slept there, I have tried also to create a master plan of how to recreate the tourism potentials of Badagry and for this Festival to be the first that would be done, we would ensure that it would celebrate what Lagos actually stands for and we would strongly support it, we would partner and make sure that it is very successful, August is a good time and it brings greater things into focus. What I want to encourage you is that the planning should not just be for this year alone, we should have a framework that allows it to be sustained,” he said.

    He said his administration would also leverage on the festival to mark the Golden Jubilee of the State, just as he expressed optimism that it would open the doors for other tourists’ potentials of the Badagry axis.

    “I am also glad that this is happening when we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the State and like I said, the anniversary is not ending on the 27th of May, it’s the whole of 2017, so for this kind of proposal, for us to be able to bring the black race in diaspora and we in Nigeria to come together, I think it’s something that this government is ready to support,” Governor Ambode said.

    While reiterating that fact that Lagos remains the capital of the black race, the Governor stressed the need to create a convergence between commerce, investment, tourism and total well-being of the black race, noting that it would become a major economic opportunity on the long run.

    “From the kind of vision that we stand for, everything that you have requested for is in tandem with our own aspirations and we would support the three items. We would make sure that our key ministries work swiftly with you Ministry of Tourism, Lagos Global to make sure that this becomes our own programme and then we also use it to embellish whatever it is that is your aspiration and also make sure that this convergence allows us to benefit from everything that is actually inculcated in this kind of project that you have embarked upon,” Governor Ambode said.

    He also commended Hon. Dabiri-Erewa for her efforts in protecting the rights and interests of Nigerians in Diaspora, noting specifically the recovery of some Nigerian nationals in neighbouring countries.

    Earlier, Hon Dabiri-Erewa commended Governor Ambode, saying that his achievements in the past two years were not only making Lagosians proud but Nigerians especially those in the diaspora.

    “I am here for three things, first to thank you for making us proud as Lagosians. Everywhere you go in the diaspora, the Governor has made our job easier because of the fantastic work he is doing.  I am sure Your Excellency, knows there are many Lagosians in the diaspora excelling in their various field of endeavour and it is better to tell our own story ourselves that Nigerians are the most vibrant technocrat anywhere in the world, hence the need to celebrate ourselves in our own land,” Dabiri-Erewa said.

    She added that the visit by the delegation was to intimate the Governor on the Diaspora Festival in Badagry and seek ways of collaboration with the State Government to make the festival a success.

     

  • How Lagos reflated economy to overcome recession – Ambode

    How Lagos reflated economy to overcome recession – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday said that his administration took decisive steps, deployed workable strategies and judiciously utilised resources to cushion the effects of the economic recession witnessed across the nation in 2016.

    Ambode, who spoke at Lagos House in Ikeja when he received the management team of Unilever Nigeria plc led by its Managing Director, Mr Yaw Nsakor, explained that the State Government reflated the economy by embarking on more capital projects and also created a conducive environment for small and medium scale businesses to thrive during the period of recession.

    The Governor said: “We are aware that as at the time we are speaking the situation was deplorable and inflow from the Federal Government to the states were just not there with internally generated revenue dropping and a lot of companies were plugging down and taking people out of employment. Our government also applied judicious use of resources with our ability to appropriate as to where needs are”.

    “Technically our IGR was going down and nose diving and nothing was coming in. The only thing the government did was to reflate the economy and push more capital expenditure out and allow those at the fringe of low income level to earn something on a daily basis. That is what we have been doing.

    “That’s why you see people asking whether there was a recession in Lagos and where are they are getting money to do all those construction? You need to apply judicious use of resources and be able to appropriate as to where the needs are. Lagos stands on a threshold of history as the biggest economy in the country right now. The State has been able to create some level of happiness for the market to be able to buy products from Unilever and other companies doing business in the State”.

    Governor Ambode who also received the President and Chairman of Council, Prince Dapo Adelegan and Executives of the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce also on a courtesy visit said his administration among other things would continue to focus more on building the GDP of the State to serve as a role model to other states in the country to boost the economy.

    He said: “Like you mentioned this a year of celebration, you know Lagos is marking 50th anniversary but what matters is the future of Lagos in another 50 years. That’s something we should look at from your perspective and the perspective on investment; we should focus on how to grow the GDP of the state and create a vision where some years later we will be able to comment that our partnership today established an example of what a typical state should be for the rest of the country in terms of development and economy.

    “In the last two years we have tried as much as possible to increase our indices on the ease of doing businesses and make sure that we address the challenge of security. We have been working on that aspect and we started seeing results. Before you came in, I received the MD of Unilever and I was happy to know that in the last twelve month the numbers that they have got in terms of growth and profit has improved even in this present economy recession where people are not suppose to be buying.

    “We have created some infrastructure that have some convergence with their marketing potential. The city is safe, there is a 24/7 economy and the little money that goes around from our own capital expenditure, people are able to buy those basic things and it turns out to be a greater number that grows their GDP.

    “We are very excited about the things we have done in the last two years, it has inspired us also to continue to partner with structured platforms like yours so that we can take Nigeria out of the recession because the bottom line is we should continually reflate the economy in a way that everybody feels so comfortable to spend that little disposable income in their hands without actually feeling the pain, we are tired of suicide attempt”.

    Governor Ambode, who reiterated the government’s partnership with the NBCC, applauded their contribution to the growth and development of the state and the Nigeria economy also disclosed that investments in the state will no longer be centralized like before.

    Earlier, the Managing Director of Unilever, Mr. Yaw Nsarkoh said they were at the Lagos House to thank the Governor on the State’s 50 years anniversary as well as the developmental strides his administration has recorded since he assumed office.

    Nsarkoh specifically said his company recorded immense success in the previous year owning to the friendly business climate in the State.

    “I will like to thank you very much because without any doubt, you contributed immensely to our growth. Lagos is a big contributor to Unilever success story in 2016.  Without going further, let me congratulate all of you for the Golden Jubilee anniversary of the creation Lagos. Let me also commend Lagos for qualitative progress in public service, decongestion of roads, security, road rehabilitation, Light up Lagos etc,” he said.

     

  • Education vital tool to combat poverty – Ambode

    Education vital tool to combat poverty – Ambode

    …Tasks public service on innovative ideas

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday justified the massive investment of his administration on improvement of educational infrastructure and upgrade of curriculum to meet current realities, saying that education remains one of the critical tools to combat poverty and secure a better future for the State.

    Governor Ambode, who spoke at Lagos House in Ikeja after swearing-in a new Permanent Secretary and Tutor General for Education District Six, Mrs. Olabisi Olufunmilayo Onadipe, said the massive investment on education architecture and continues empowering and equipping of teachers were all in a bid to raise the next generation of Lagosians who will be ready to take on the challenges of the future.

    While alluding to the fact that the State Government placed high emphasis on education, Governor Ambode charged the new appointee to see her appointment as very critical to the future progress of the State, and as such, she must add value not only to the present administration and the public service, but the State.

    The Governor said the public service, as a vital institution primarily responsible for policy implementation, has been given a pride of place, and recalled that since inception of the present administration, a lot of attention had been given to appointment of only officers with credible record of performance into leadership positions.

    He said no matter how good a policy is, its effectiveness in terms of achieving the desired impact would only be determined by the competence and commitment of those charged with the responsibility of implementation, a development the Governor said called for the need for greater sense of dedication.

    According to Governor Ambode, “A lot of attention is given to ensuring that only officers with credible record of performance are appointed into leadership position in the public service. The global rating of Lagos State requires that only the best hands must be engaged to drive the key sectors of the State economy. This is the only way we can guaranty effective and efficient service delivery and synergy between the public and the private sector.

    “I therefore use this opportunity to demand greater sense of commitment and responsibility from the leadership and the entire workforce in the State public service. You must be open minded and ready to embrace new and innovative ideas that are consistent with global practices.”

    Responding, the new Permanent Secretary thanked Governor Ambode for the confidence reposed in her, and expressed her readiness to discharge her duties effectively and efficiently.

  • We’re on course to transform education sector – Ambode

    We’re on course to transform education sector – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday expressed delight at the winning of the annual Spelling Bee Competition by students of public schools in the State, saying that the development was an eloquent testimony that his administration is on the right path to transform the education sector.

    Governor Ambode, who spoke at the Lagos House, Ikeja while hosting the 16th One-day Governor, Master Olaseinde Olufemi Joshua and members of his cabinet, said the fact that winners of the competition emerged from public schools in inner communities was a clear indication that public schools in the State are now becoming exemplary citadel of learning.

    He said: “I must say that I am impressed about the mixture of the people that we are now celebrating. I can personally say that I did watch the school debate on television and I am very excited that the schools from which the winners emerged are from our inner communities in Shasha in Alimosho, Badagry, Ilupeju and also in Mushin.

    “That in itself shows that we are on the right path. We must be able to show that our public schools are exemplary citadel of learning that we can also use to showcase the fact that the future of Lagos is brighter than what we have now,” Governor Ambode said.

    While congratulating the winners of the competition for doing the State proud, Governor Ambode said the competition was one of the ways of encouraging younger ones to venture into position of leadership, adding that development would also go a long way in preparing the students for position of leadership in the future.

    He added: “We want to say that the six winners we are celebrating today are worthy to be celebrated and we will indeed celebrate them and use them as examples to encourage other younger ones to reach out so that we can be proud that in another twenty years, these ones will take over from us and we would be proud that we really did the State proud.”

    Besides, the Governor congratulated the State’s Ministry of Education and other stakeholders for sustaining the initiative which started about 16 years ago, and called for the scaling up of the initiative to accommodate more younger students.

    Earlier, the One-day Governor, Master Olaseinde Olufemi Joshua, a student of Shasha Community Senior High School saluted the vision of the wife of former Lagos State Governor, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was the pioneer of the Spelling Bee competition, saying that the competition had helped students in the State to be more dedicated to their studies and strive for excellence.

    He added that the competition would not have been possible without the free education policy of the Lagos State Government over the years, which is being sustained by the present administration.

    Speaking on Governor Ambode’s administration, Master Joshua said: “Barely a year after taking over the reign of power as the Governor of the State, Lagosians have witnessed a rapid transformation of infrastructural facilities and integrated lighting system. There is no gainsaying that Lagosians’ dream of becoming Africa’s model megacity is becoming into reality through your hard work and dedication.

    “This is evident in your meticulous implementation of various developmental programmes. I can easily predict that our visionary Governor Ambode will take Lagos State to the promise land within his first tenure in office,” he said.

    Master Joshua, who said his father could not make it to the event due to health challenges, however, urged the Governor to consider donating a school bus, a well-equipped E-library to his school and the rehabilitation of drainage systems as well as the roads leading to his school.

    Responding, Governor Ambode granted the request for a school bus in Joshua’s school and all other requests in respect of the other schools of the winners.

    He also ordered that Joshua’s father be treated at the health facilities of the State Government.

    Other winners are One-day Deputy Governor, Komolafe Kehinde of Immaculate Heart Senior High School, Maryland; One-day Speaker, Okinbaloye Rashidat of Ilupeju Senior Grammar School; One-day Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Ogunfowora Islamiyat of Badagry Senior Grammar School; One-day Commissioner for Education, Abdulkarim Asiyat of Atunrase Senior High School and One-day Commissioner for Science and Technology, Ahwanyinu Sesinu of Kakon Senior Secondary School.

  • Nigeria moving on despite challenges – Ambode

    Nigeria moving on despite challenges – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday said that against all odds, Nigeria has continued to surmount its challenges due to the commitment of Governors and their spouses to addressing issues of governance in their respective States.

    Governor Ambode who spoke when he received a delegation of the Southern Governors’ Wives’ Forum (SGWF) on a courtesy visit at the Lagos House, Ikeja, said that the efforts by Governors to deliver good governance in their States would not be effective without the complementary role by their wives.

    He said the SGWF was an important platform that would afford wives of Governors share knowledge and exchange notes on governance which could be beneficial to their people on the long run.

    Governor Ambode said, “I want to commend each and every one of your Excellencies for supporting us, we Governors, at least, to be able to create the impact that we are creating. Notwithstanding the fact that these are hard and difficult times, but we are out there still trying as much as possible to create that impact. I must commend you for that supportive role. It is very obvious everywhere that against all odds, we are pushing on and we would succeed.

    “This forum is more about creating impact on governance on behalf of our people, no matter how much it is that a Governor can do, if it is not complemented by somebody that is prayerful, somebody that is supporting the programmes, there is no way you can go and actually go out there and succeed.”

    While pledging his support for the Forum towards their set objectives, Governor Ambode commended Mrs. Aisha Buhari, wife of the President of Nigeria for conceptualizing the SGWF, saying it was a viable avenue for members of the Forum to impact on the lives of women and children in their States.

    “Let me reiterate the fact that I would support this forum in whatever ways you have deemed it fit and I know the next two days of your meeting, one of the resolutions that would come out is how Governors can support this forum, so I give my commitment and also want to say that I would be in the forefront of those that would support and also ensure that other Governors support this forum,” he said.

    Earlier, wife of the Governor of Imo State and Chairperson of the Forum, Mrs. Nkechi Okorocha said they were in Lagos for the second edition of their quarterly meeting which the State is hosting.

    She said the forum presented members with the opportunity to rub minds and come up with ideas that could trigger both economic and social rebirth in Nigeria.

    “While it is very important that we do what we are doing as individuals in our various States, we are looking at what is happening in Nigeria today and we have realized that it is very important that we must be patriotic in all that we do and we must begin to tear down the walls of friction and conflict, that’s the only way we can have the Nigeria of our collective dream and aspiration.

    Mrs. Okorocha, on behalf of the forum also congratulated Governor Ambode for his strides in the last one year of his administration, saying that the impact of his government was being felt across the state.

    “Let me use this opportunity to congratulate you on behalf of the Southern Governors’ Wives’ Forum on your giant strides towards the massive transformation of Lagos within just one year in office.

    “Lagos is indeed our second home, so we can attest to the fact that Your Excellency has done a great job. One begins to wonder what magnitude of development that Lagos would be experiencing during your tenure.

    “As Nigerian women, we deem it fit to give honour to whom honour is due, that first, coming here, not only to pay a courtesy visit but to give you our respect and formally introduce this forum to you”

    She said the Forum which has 17 members, was poised to support the programmes of Mrs. Aisha Buhari, who according to her is very concerned about the welfare of Nigerians.

    “We are poised to complement the effort of our dear husbands, the Governors of the Southern States through our respective pet projects and carry out laudable initiatives in the Southern region.

    “We are so passionate about this forum and with God on our side we would make bold statements and at the end, we would leave a worthy legacy for our generation yet to come.

    She also solicited the support of Governor Ambode to reach out to his brother governors to buy into the ideals and goals of the Forum.

    In her welcome address, Wife of the Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode said that the Forum would seize the opportunity of the two-day meeting to carefully consider all items on the agenda and make robust contributions towards enhancing national growth.