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Tag: Lagos state Governor

  • Nigerians must unite to fight cancer – Ambode

    Nigerians must unite to fight cancer – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday marked his birthday with a special luncheon too raise funds for the provision of three Mobile Cancer Centres across the three Senatorial Districts in the State, with a call on Nigerians to join hands together to wage war against the scourge.

    The Governor who spoke at an event tagged #GivingTuesdayLagos put together by the Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy (CECP-Nigeria), which coincided with his 53rd Birthday, said the Centres would go a long way to save millions of Nigerians from preventable suffering and death.

    Lamenting the rate at which the terminal disease has claimed thousands of lives in recent times, the Governor said it was unacceptable and therefore calls for concerted efforts from all and sundry.

    He said the war against cancer was one that the government cannot tackle alone, hence the need for Nigerians to extend their philanthropy towards the scourge.

    “Lives are lost every day to cancer and this is unacceptable. This is why the Lagos State Government carries out public health programmes focused on cancer.

    “I believe that the government alone cannot solve every problem; everyone has a role to play. In my one year in office, I have come to realise that even with the best will in the world, Government cannot do everything. The real challenge before me as Governor of Lagos is how I unite public, private and philanthropic sectors in building our state.

    “I am therefore, glad that through this private sector led initiative I can play a role in helping to advance the BIG WAR Against Cancer for the well-being of not just the good people of Lagos State but Nigerians in general.

    “We can only achieve this goal with the generous support of all people of goodwill. Without these donations, the goal would not be reached and the opportunity to save lives would be lost,” he said.

    Ambode, who commended the CECP and philanthropists who donated towards the purchase of the first set of Mobile Cancer Centres, said that though the initial target was for one Centre in Lagos, having three centres in each of the senatorial districts in the State was a priority for him.

    “The purpose of this Luncheon is to raise funds for One Mobile Cancer Centre for Lagos but I would like to challenge us all to not only give towards the provision of one Mobile Cancer Center but towards the provision of three Mobile Cancer Centers servicing each of the senatorial districts of Lagos; as the Centre of Excellence and Africa’s model City-State.

    “This would help to save millions of Nigerians from preventable suffering and death. We can only achieve this goal with the generous support of all people of goodwill. Without these donations, the goal would not be reached and the opportunity to save lives would be lost,” he said.

    He also expressed the readiness of his administration to mobilise philanthropists and Corporate Organisations towards establishing a comprehensive Cancer Centre in Lagos within the next three years, starting with making available a piece of land in any part of the State as well as facilitating speedy paper work.

    “This is not really a celebration but a call to service. Against all odds; against all the things happening to the economy in the country; against the numbers; against the anxieties and the panic, we are still able to stand up and gather ourselves together and say we want to give back to humanity, that is symbolic and key for me and I think we must commend ourselves that all hope is not lost. There is more value to us and humanity in championing this course,” he said.

    On his part, Dr. Christopher Kolade, anchor of CECP-Nigeria, commended the Governor for accepting the request that his birthday be dedicated towards raising funds to fight cancer as well as accepting to be the first Governor to be inducted as the State Patron of CECP.

    Governor Ambode was later decorated as the State Patron of CECP by the organisation’s Convener, Mrs. Adetutu Adeleke.

    Among those who participated in the fund raising luncheon include Chairman, Zenith Bank, Mr. Jim Ovia, Group Managing Director, Zenith Bank Plc., Mr. Peter Amangbo, Publisher, Guardian Newspapers, Maiden Alex Ibru, Dr. Christopher Kolade, President, Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Dr. Michael Omolayole, Chief Adebutu Kessington, Chairman of Eleganza Group, Chief Rasaq Okoya, Rtd Justice Adesola Oguntade, Mr. Gbenga Oyebode, captains of industries, members of Diplomatic Corps, among others.

  • Ambode: A humanist and pragmatist at 53

    Ambode: A humanist and pragmatist at 53

    During the thick of the governorship campaign in 2015, the then candidate of All Progressive Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, came out with an instructive advert: Let my experience work for you. In the said advert, which was placed in major national dailies, Ambode explicitly came out with his intimidating credentials and the experience he gathered during his years in the Civil Service, when he left Alausa and went back to school in the United States and came back home to become a public finance expert.

    It was therefore not a surprise that few days to his first anniversary as the Governor of Lagos State, some notable members of the National Assembly from the state, placed a centre-spread advert in the dailies to remind the electorate that they made the right choice by voting for Ambode. In the advert that was rightly captioned: ‘We say thank you Lagosians, his experience is working for you’, the lawmakers enumerated the giant strides the state has recorded in the past year, and that despite the economic uncertainty in the country, the state under the leadership of Ambode, is on a sound footing for growth and development.

    In truth, for some of us working with him at close range, it’s not too difficult to see the humanity, simplicity, compassion, pragmatism, discipline and courage in him. When we were disturbed few months after he came to power with negative media reports and slow pace of governance, the governor would always remind us that we are on a marathon race and not a sprint; he would tell us that it has always been his nature to be underrated. “Just wait and see”, he would say with a smile. And while it has been difficult to keep pace with him, we find solace in what the National Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu said of the governor during the launch of the BRT buses last year: “Ambode does not believe there is no solution to a problem; he believes there is always a solution to every problem”.

    Hence, the unprecedented achievements of the past 12 months should be seen within this context. Here is a man who rose to become the Auditor General and then the first civil servant to hold the positions of both the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance and the state Accountant General. Needless to say that he had variously been credited with successfully managing the account of the state when the then President, Chief Olusegun Obasango withheld the state Local Government funds.

    For sure, it is this spirit of doggedness and consistency that the governor brought to bear in the way and manner he has piloted the affairs of the state in the last one year. At every critical juncture of the journey, you always have this belief that you are working with a man who knows where he is heading; a man who listens and is very meticulous in everything he does; a man who is concern about every details of what you do and say on his behalf; a man who believes the Lagos city-state should rank among the best in the world; a man who understands the transient of power and above all, a man whose love for the STATE of EXCELLENCE is unrivalled and whose passion for his job is unmistakable. Indeed, you will always win a seat on the table with Governor Ambode if you have superior argument on any issue.

    But despite all he has done so far, the governor has served notice of something even more remarkable and iconic. His administration is about to convert Oshodi into what he calls “world-class transportation and commercial hub.” The more challenging term he used is “regeneration of Oshodi.” The area would witness the consolidation of all the 13 parks into three multi-storey bus parks and terminals to stand on four floors. There would be shopping mall, recreation points, bus lanes, lay-bys, green parks to soften the environment, proper waste management, fencing and – wait for this – a dedicated fully kitted security team for Oshodi.

    Apart from this, the administration has restructured the civil service for maximum voltage performance, while creating new offices to cater for the emerging needs of the people. He has cut the cost of governance by streamlining some ministries, departments and agencies. Ambode injected compassion into governance, paying N11bn to aged pensioners who had been owed for decades. He has personally attended to the distressed, the indigent and the severely handicapped. Recently he celebrated Democracy Day with the less privileged and persons with disabilities.

    This compassionate governance philosophy has seen Ambode launch an unprecedented move to allay the security concerns of the citizens when within six months, he gave more than N6.6bn to equip the Police and other security agencies with armored tanks, brand new power bikes and scores of squad cars for Special Operation Services (SOS) for community policing. He has also launched an aerial policing of Lagos by donating three helicopters to the Nigeria Police Command in the state.
    He further launched a world class rescue operation unit, the first of its kind in Nigeria.

    Closely knit to these is a radical road infrastructure development leading to the construction and renovation of more than 500 roads in the state and 114 link roads in all the local councils and the Light-up Lagos Project meant to banish darkness from every corner of the state.

    In a pragmatic approach to massively reduce unemployment and empower fresh graduates, artisans and the youths, the governor launched the N25bn Employment Trust Fund (ETF) to ensure capital for start-up of small scale businesses with very minimal interest rate and also signed MoU with Kebbi State to ensure self sufficiency in food production thereby drastically reducing importation of rice and other food items. This will equally boost Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    And just before the first anniversary, Ambode again did what many considered an uphill task with the signing of an N844bn Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to construct the Fourth Mainland Bridge. The bridge that is expected to be completed between three and four years, would go a long way in changing the transportation system in the state. Instructively too, these achievements are anchored on the core pillar of his manifesto, which is Security, Infrastructure and Youth Empowerment.

    As you clock 53 today, the people are felicitating with you and wishing you well as you churn out more of your great signature projects.

    Happy birthday sir!

    Aruna is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Ambode.

  • Our commitment to grassroots development unequivocal- Ambode

    Our commitment to grassroots development unequivocal- Ambode

    • Swears-in 57 Sole Administrators for LGs, LCDAs 

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday swore-in new sole administrators to take charge of the 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the State, with a reassurance that his administration would spare nothing to make governance at the grassroots vibrant and responsive.

    Governor Ambode, who spoke at the Banquet Hall of the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja during the swearing-in ceremony, said the appointment of sole administrators was another step by his administration to deliver on its promise of a government of inclusion where no one is left behind.

    “The hallmark of any good Government is to provide basic services to the communities at the grassroots. This is the only way the real dividends of good governance can spread downwards and touch the hearts and minds of its people,” he said.

    The Governor further said: “Our State is growing so fast that the concept of the rural area will not be applicable to any part of Lagos very soon. Our government is working hard to meet the yearnings of our people who live in what I term semi-urban areas by providing them with services like water, good roads, street lights, efficient refuse collection, cleaning of drainage and roads, primary healthcare, recreational parks and sports facilities to make those areas live able and economically viable,” he said.

    Governor Ambode also said that the appointment of the Sole Administrators to manage the affairs of the Local Governments and Councils was in line with the recent resolution passed by the House of Assembly which recommended that the previous local government committees be resolved.

    He said his administration remains committed to reforms that would make the Local Governments more responsive to the needs of the people, adding that he recently assented to three bills on local government reforms recently passed by the Assembly that would change the face of governance at the third tier of government.

    Governor Ambode also charged the newly sworn in Sole Administrators to see their appointment as a call to service of the people, urging them to carry out their responsibilities efficiently.

    “You are relay runners on a journey of reform that will ultimately culminate in the election of accountable people that will carry on the baton of good governance for our people. For the duration of your race, I urge you to run the race efficiently with diligence so you do not betray the trust that has been placed in you.

    “Your job is to go to the Local Governments you have been posted and make a difference to the lives of the people. You must touch lives and be prepared to have your lives also touched by our people. You must interact with the people, share their joys and pain, and reside among them. It is only through this symbiotic relationship that we can truly say we have begun to understand and serve our people,” he said.

    Governor Ambode also said that the State Government would put in place a strict monitoring, control and feedback process to check against excesses and abuse of office, warning that he would not hesitate to replace any Administrator found wanting in conduct and discharge of duties.

    Earlier, Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello said the appointment of the Sole Administrators was one of the steps aimed at preparing the Local Government councils for the subsequent elections, and urged the appointees to see the development as an opportunity to engrave their legacies on the sands of time.

    Responding on behalf of the appointees, Sole Administrator of Bariga LCDA, Mr. Sanya Osijo thanked Governor Ambode for counting them worthy to be part of the development of the State, assuring that they would go all out to offer good governance at the grassroots.

    The Sole Administrators and their designations are Gbenga Abiola (Agege LGA), James Agboola (Orile Agege LCDA), Fehintola Akabo (Ajeromi Ifelodun LG), Femi John (Ifelodun LCDA), Quadri Ganiu (Alimosho LG), Sola Akande (Agbado Oke-Ode LCDA), Abiodun Agbaje (Ayobo Ipaja LCDA), Doyin Salami (Egbe Idimu LCDA), Ibrahim Adigun (Ejigbo LCDA), Samuel Ojo (Igando Ikotun LCDA), Rotimi Ogunwuyi (Mosan Okunola LCDA), Oki Nurudeen Bamidele (Amuwo Odofin LG), Habeeb Aileru (Oriade LCDA), Jide Alao (Apapa LG), Olumide Olayemi (Apapa Iganmu LCDA) Jacob Kent (Badagry LG), Genesis Williams (Badagry West LCDA), Bolaji Adele Solomon (Olorunda LCDA) Olu Ogunniyi (Epe LG), Muyiwa Okesanya (Eredo LCDA), Babatunde Adetunji (Ikosi Ejirin LCDA) and Abiodun Elegushi (Eti-Osa LG).

    Others are Ayeni Babatunde (Eti-Osa East LCDA), Goke Ona-Olawale (Ikoyi Obalende LCDA), Aderemi Adebowale (Iru-Victoria Island LCDA), Surakat Adigun (Ibeju-Lekki LG), Shefiu Osinnuga (Lekki LCDA), Label Raji (Ifako Ijaiye LG), Ipaye Adeleke (Ojokoro LCDA), Biodun Taiwo (Ikeja LG), Samson Oloyede (Onigbongbo LCDA), Stella Kokumo (Ojodu LCDA), Ogunleye Gbolahan (Ikorodu LG), Bashorun Bolanle (Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA), Emmanuel Aguda (Ijede LCDA), Shukura Okeowo (Ikorodu North LCDA), Segun Anifowoshe (Ikorodu West LCDA), Olufemi Okedeyi (Imota LCDA), Animawun Adejumoke (Kosefe LG), Ilelaboye Rasaq (Agboyi-Ketu LCDA), Abdul Adewale (Ikosi-Isheri LCDA), Musa Nasir (Lagos Island LG), Are Abiola (Lagos Island East LCDA), Rojaye Olayomi (Lagos Mainland (LG), Adefuye Bayo (Yaba LCDA), Yinka Kazeem (Mushin LG), Adekunle Julius (Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA), Wasiu Sanni (Ojo LG), Isa Jubril (Iba LCDA), Abiola Esrom (Oto-Awori LCDA), Adebayo Taoheed (Oshodi/Isolo LG), Oshikoya Abimbola (Isolo LCDA), William Lawanson (Somolu LG), Sanya Osijo (Bariga LCDA), Sheriff Balogun (Surulere LG), Yussuf Temitope (Coker/Aguda LCDA) and Samiat Raji (Itire-Ikate LCDA).

  • Ambode appoints 57 sole administrators for LGs

    Ambode appoints 57 sole administrators for LGs

    …To Swear-in new appointees Monday

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Saturday approved the appointment of new sole administrators expected to oversee the 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas in the State.

    In a statement issued on Saturday by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello, Governor Ambode would on Monday, June 13, 2016, swear-in the new appointees at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja.

    Those to be sworn-in are: Ayeni A. Babatunde; Adebayo Taoheed; Adekunle Julius; Samuel Ojo; Jacob Kent; Mrs. Bashorun Bolanle A.; Gbenga Abiola; Olumide Olayomi; Mrs. Yeyintola D. Agaba; Isa Abiola Jubril; Yusuf Temitope; Alh. Musa Nasir A.; Ogunleye Gbolahon; Babatunde Adetunji; Olu Ogunniyi; Sola Akande; Alh. Wasiu Sanni; Abiola Kolawole Esrom; Muyiwa Okesanya and Shukura Okeowo.

    Others are: William Lawanson; Label Raji; Ibrahim Adigun; Mrs. Samiat O. Raji; Segun Anifowoshe; Sherif Balogun; Ilelaboye Rasaq; Mrs. Stella Kokumo; Yinka Kazeem; Quadri Ganiu; Princess Abiodun Elegushi; Mrs. Doyin Y. Salami; Ms Soikoya Abimbola; Bolaji Adele Solomon; Mrs. Animawun Adejumoke; Shefiu O. Osinnuga; Adefuye Bayo; Biodun Agbaje; Genesis N. Williams; Engr. Biodun Taiwo; Okinurudeen Bamidele; Gokef Ona Olawale; Abdul Adewale; Femi John; Sanya Oshijo; Ipaye N. Adeleke; Hon. Tunde Alao; Are B. Abiola; Samson Akerele Oloyede; James Agboola; Princess Aderemi Adebowale; Rotimi Ogunwuyi; Olufemi Okedeyi; Rojaiye A. Olayemi; Surakat O. Idogun; Emmanuel Aguda and Habib Aileru.

    The Statement added that the 57 sole administrators after being sworn in would take charge of their various councils pending the conduct of elections at the Councils.

    It would be recalled that Governor Ambode had last Thursday approved the immediate dissolution of Caretaker Committees following the resolution of the Lagos State House of Assembly relieving the Executive Secretaries of the 57 Local Governments Councils and Local Council Development Areas in the State of their responsibilities.

    The Governor had also directed the Executive Secretaries to hand over the reins of administration to the Head of Administration in each of the Council Areas.

  • Ambode approves dissolution of caretaker committees of LGs/LCDAs

    Ambode approves dissolution of caretaker committees of LGs/LCDAs

    Following the resolution of the Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday relieving the Executive Secretaries of the 57 Local Governments Councils and Local Council Development Areas in the State of their responsibilities, the State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode has approved the immediate dissolution of the Caretaker Committees.

    In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr Tunji Bello, the Governor also directed the Executive Secretaries to hand over the reins of administration to the Head of Administration in each of the Council Areas.

    Thursday’s dissolution of the Caretaker committees is preparatory to the holding of elections into the 57 Council Areas by the State Government and ensuring that the necessary machineries are put in place preparatory to the elections.

    The State House of Assembly had also on April 22 this year passed into law a bill recommending a four year tenure for elected Local Government helmsmen instead of the three years tenure that hitherto obtained.

    It would be recalled that the Caretaker Committees which was headed by Executive Secretaries were inaugurated by former Governor, Mr Babatunde Fashola on January 5, 2015.

  • We’ll not discriminate in disbursement of N25bn ETF – Ambode

    We’ll not discriminate in disbursement of N25bn ETF – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday assured that his administration, through the Board of the Employment Trust Fund (ETF), has put in place a robust process of disbursing the N25 billion earmarked to provide succor for small scale businesses and people with innovative business ideas, just as he expressed optimism that the Fund would drastically reduce unemployment and ensure sustainable wealth creation.

    Governor Ambode, who spoke at the Ikeja Airport Hotel in Lagos at the first Stakeholders’ Summit organized by the State’s Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, said the only criteria for accessing the fund is to be a resident in the State with marketable business idea, adding that there would not be discrimination based on colour, gender or creed.

    The Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. (Mrs) Idiat Oluranti Adebule, said apart from the fact that credible and experienced Nigerians were appointed into the ETF Board, the entire process of accessing the fund has equally been designed to be “credible, transparent, accountable and not discriminate on account of gender, religion, physical ability or disability, political affiliation and socio-economic background.”

    Both the ETF and the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment were created by the Ambode-led administration in the State, and they were designed to tackle unemployment with the sole mandate of reducing it to a barest minimum.

    Already, the yearly contribution of N6.25 billion for Year 2016 to the Fund has been released by the State Government, while the disbursement would kick-off in earnest.

    Speaking on the summit with the theme: “Strengthening Partnership For Employment Opportunities and Wealth Creation in a Competitive Environment,” Governor Ambode said the summit was a platform initiated to generate ideas, harmonize strategies and device strong partnership for sustainable wealth creation.

    While urging participants at the summit to come up with ideas and suggestion that would add value to the strategy guiding the design and implementation of sustainable programmes for harnessing the opportunities for job and wealth creation, the Governor assured that his administration would favourably consider the recommendations from stakeholders.

    He added that his administration strongly believes in creating potential and innovative capacity for the youths, especially by providing support and creating conducive environment for the innovative ideas to thrive, thereby bringing about employment opportunities and sustainable wealth creation.

    Besides, Governor Ambode said the economic challenges facing Nigeria as a result of dwindling revenue from crude oil, presents a unique opportunity to chart a new direction for sustainable economic growth, adding that part of it was what his administration has been to support the establishment and growth of small businesses to create job opportunities and generate wealth for the collective prosperity of all.

    In his goodwill message, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo commended Governor Ambode for his laudable achievements in infrastructure renewal and security.

    The Vice President, who was represented by the Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters, Dr. Adeyemi Dipeolu, said infrastructure renewal and security were the necessary ingredients for sustainable wealth creation and generation of employment which equally are the basis for long term progress.

    In her keynote address, Chairperson of the Lagos State ETF Board, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okaru said Nigeria must create about 1.5 million jobs quarterly to keep the number of unemployed people flat, adding that as a way out, there must be an effective collaboration between government and the private sector to come up with solutions.

    Okaru, who lamented that many Nigerians were spending time to acquire certificates that are of no value, said the people must be encouraged to look around for opportunities and come up with innovative solutions to problems.

    She also advocated the need for order and discipline in the society, saying such would also go a long way in creating job opportunities.

    Speaking on the ETF, Okaru said government would soon embark on disbursement of the fund, adding that at the moment the board was putting in place necessary foundation to build trust and credibility.

  • Ambode denies kidnap attempt on mother

    Ambode denies kidnap attempt on mother

    The Lagos State Governor on Saturday denied media reports claiming that a kidnap attempt was made on his mother, Mrs Christianah Ambode at her residence in Gbagada area of the State on Friday evening.

    The governor, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Habib Aruna, denied the media report, saying that it was not a true reflection of what transpired at the residence of his mother.

    An online newspaper had claimed that heavily armed gunmen invaded the Governor’s mother’s residence and disarmed the octogenarian’s police detail in an apparent attempt to abduct her.

    The newspaper had further reported that the unfortunate development took place at about 7:30pm, while a back-up team arrived at the scene at about8:10pm.

    Responding, Aruna said: “Whilst it is true that a commotion occurred at the residence of the Governor’s mother on the fateful day, it was however far from the truth that it was a kidnap attempt.

    “What really transpired was that a man parked his vehicle in front of the residence of the Governor’s mother and the security detail attached to the building asked him not to park there so as not to block the entrance.

    “The man who claimed to be a military personnel was not in uniform as at the time of the unfortunate incident but he insisted on parking in front of the building on the ground that he was a military personnel.

    “He then went on to invite military personnel attached to Operation MESA to beat Mrs. Ambode’s police details after he was advised not to park his vehicle outside the building.

    “The unfortunate part was that the newspaper rightly reported this aspect of the development in the body of the story but still claimed in the lead paragraph that it was an apparent kidnap attempt.

    “While we would like to put on record that the disturbance was not a kidnap attempt on the Governor’s mother as nothing untoward happened to her, we also like to caution against needless sensational journalism which could cause unnecessary panic.

    “At the moment, officials of the State Government are taking appropriate steps to sanction the unruly military personnel who joined their colleague to disturb public peace,” Aruna stated.

  • 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.

  • Ambode is a true leader, politician – Fasehun

    Ambode is a true leader, politician – Fasehun

    Founder of Oodua People’s Congress (OPC). Dr. Frederick Fasehun has described Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode as a true leader and politician who identifies with the needs of people and delights in finding solutions to problems.

    Speaking to journalists on the backdrop of the commissioning of the Ago- Palace way, in Okota Isolo, Fasehun, who is also the National Chairman of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) said the road has been in a bad shape since the military administration of Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa.

    He said Ambode promised to construct the road during his electioneering campaign and has delivered on his promise in less than a year in office.

    Fasehun, who said Ambode has no shortcomings in all areas, however urged the governor to keep up the good work by improving on his style of governance.

    He said, “Ambode has done extremely well judging by the nature of Nigerians when they first come to office. You wouldn’t know he is a Nigerian. He is out to serve the people; he identifies the need of the people and go out to solve such needs. If we have six of Ambode’s out of 36 state governors, Nigerians would be smiling.  He has done very and I wish him well”.

    “He should improve on the style of governance, you know me very well that I don’t fear to speak.  I don’t think he has any shortcomings in any areas. He can look to do better because there is always room for improvement in all areas of human endeavour.

    “Ambode in all modesty has introduced a new style in serving the people. He gave promise and he has kept the promise that is why people are praying for him, nobody jeers at Ambode. He moves with the people, he identifies with the need of the people and he is finding solutions to the problem.

    Fasehun said the Ago Palace Way-Okota Road had not been motorable since the era of Col Buba Marwa as governor of the state, adding that promises by successive governors to fix the road did not yield much result.

    “They could not do that until when Ambode came in last year and promised the people that he would rebuild Ago-Okota road and just in less than a year, you can see what Ago- Okota road is looking like.

    “Should we not praise him for the good job done and urge him to continue? I know people who would hear me talking glowingly of him would say I have been given money.  I have not met Ambode face to face like this.  God admires those who tell the truth, Ambode has been serving the people very well,” the OPC boss said.

  • Ajasa-Command road, another promise kept – Ambode

    Ajasa-Command road, another promise kept – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday commissioned the 2.481km Ajasa-Command Road, Ijasa in Alimosho Local Government, saying that the delivery of the road was another fulfillment of his promise to run a government of inclusion that would leave no community behind.

    Governor Ambode, who performed the commissioning ceremony at an event that witnessed a large turnout of residents of the area, said he would spare nothing to make life more comfortable for the people of the State.

    He said, “During my electioneering campaign, I promised to make life easier and more comfortable for our people through the implementation of people’s centered policies and provision of first class infrastructure.  I promised a government of inclusion; that leaves no community behind.

    “In fulfillment of this, we commenced work on the construction of this road five months ago,” he said.

    The Governor recalled that the rehabilitation became inevitable after he paid an unscheduled visit as a follow-up to the complaints received from the people of the Ajasa Command community on the deplorable condition of the road.

    “On that day, I gave my word to immediately mobilise resources and men to deliver this project. Today, I am delighted that we have delivered a brand new dual carriage way; 2.481km long and 15 meters wide, complete with street lights, drainage and walk-way,” he said.

    He said the road would serve as an alternative route to Abeokuta Expressway, assuring that work would continue earnestly to link Abesan Estate from Aboru before the end of the year, expressing optimism that it would go a long way to reduce traffic gridlock usually experienced along the axis.

    “The construction of this road is a clear demonstration of what our administration stands for; to listen and respond to the needs of our people. I now urge you to protect public infrastructure in your community. This road has been built with the resources from our common wealth; the tax payers money; it must therefore be protected jealously, to serve the community and improve our quality of life and standard of living.

    “As a government, we will continue to provide first class infrastructure in our communities and create an enabling environment for every Lagosian in fulfillment of our electioneering promises,” the Governor said

    Governor Ambode also said that the commissioning of the road on May 27 was significant, as it coincided with the 49th Anniversary of the creation of Lagos State, adding that it was a pleasure to celebrate with the Alimosho Community, most especially Ajasa Command, Meiran and Aboru communities.

    “It is also double and triple joy for us. We celebrate with all our children as we mark Children’s day today. May God Almighty continue to guide and guard our children to become great men and women in our lifetime.

    “Triple joy, because, today, we are witnessing the rebirth of growth and development of the Alimosho economy with the commissioning of this road project. In exactly one year from today, your State, Lagos will be marking her golden anniversary of 50 years. We shall all witness that day together,” he said.

    The Ajasa-Command Road is an important road linking the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway from popular Kola and Meiran Bus Stops to Ipaja and Ayobo communities. It is also a veritable alternative route to decongest the traffic gridlock on the expressway.

    In his goodwill message, Senator representing Lagos West District, Olamilekan Solomon, said the development that has taken place in one year under Governor Ambode is unprecedented in the history of the State.

    “What Governor Ambode has been doing in the State so far are clear indications that this is the government of the people indeed. For instance, aside the fact that there are so many other ongoing projects in Alimosho, Idimu-Ejigbo Road, Ikotun-Isolo Roads have been delivered by the Governor. The Abule Egba flyover is ongoing; world class transport interchange is coming up in Oshodi in another 13 months and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the construction of 4th Mainland Bridge has been signed and the bridge would be delivered in three years, among others. This surely is indeed the government of the people,” the Senator said.

    Also, a member of Lagos State House of Assembly representing Alimosho 1, Hon Bisi Yusuf said with his sterling performance in one year especially the numerous massive projects ongoing in his constituency, Governor Ambode had indeed made the leaders of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State proud.

    On his part, Oba Sulaiman Suberu, the Alajasa of Ajasa said in his almost 80 on earth, he had never seen a government that is committed to people’s welfare and comfort like that of Ambode’s administration.

    He said Ajasa area used to be very underdeveloped, but within a short time of promising to transform the area, Governor Ambode has kept his promise, adding that the commissioning of the road marked the happiest moment of his life.