The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Lagos state Governor

Children’s day: No hiding place for child traffickers – Ambode

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday said that the State Government would no longer tolerate any form of child abuse, domestic violence, child trafficking or violation of any law on the development of children in the state warning that perpetrators would be dealt with in accordance with the provision of the law.

Governor Ambode who was speaking at the Children’s Day celebration organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Education at the Police College ground, Ikeja said that in the recent times, there has been a noticeable increase in child abuse, raping, kidnapping , deliberate neglect and above all, child trafficking in the country.

The Governor who said that these acts constitute serious criminal offences warned that his government would not tolerate any of these acts in any part of the state.

He therefore warned perpetrators of these acts to desist as his government is battle ready to deal decisively with anyone caught in the act. The governor expressed sadness that this criminal act is becoming a norm in our society today rather than being an aberration.

Governor Ambode who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule disclosed that recent findings from Violence against Children (VAC) survey indicated that children under the age of 18 in Nigeria are being abused in the society, most especially by those that they refer to as their family members.

The Governor while assuring children that his administration has taken a holistic approach in protecting them against an abuse or unjust treatment, disclosed that security operatives have been put on the alert to arrest and prosecute anyone that abuses or infringes on their fundamental rights.

“My beloved children, let me assure you all of our determination and commitment towards ensuring that anyone who engages in any form of abuse and violence against any child shall be appropriately dealt with under the law,’’ the governor warned

He reminded them that his administration has demonstrated its zero tolerance for child abuse, kidnapping or violence against children with the prompt approach taken to recover three kidnapped students of Babington Macaulay Seminary, Ikorodu.

He assured that not only that he would ensure that those behind the act are legally dealt with, he has directed all security operatives including the police to provide security around all public schools in the state to forestall a re-occurrence.

Describing the theme of the year 2016 Children’s Day celebration: Stop Violence Against Children as instructive, the governor stated that his administration is investing heavily in creating a conducive environment for them to develop their talents.

He said, “A testament of our government commitment to your future and nurturing of your talents is the budgetary provision of the sum of N113.3billion in the year 2016 budget for the education sector’’.

While congratulating them for the success of the celebration, Ambode urged children to work harder and be focused in their academic pursuits so that government huge investment in their education would not be a waste.

On her part, wife of the Governor, Mr. Bolanle Ambode said Lagos State has continued to lead from the front in placing priority in the well being of children, however adding that there was still more grounds to cover in several areas.

Mrs. Ambode who was represented by the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibiyemi Bello, commended the activities of various women and children-interest Non Governmental Organisations, saying that they have done much in the area of promoting public awareness on child rights, as well as challenges facing them.

“However, I urge them to intensify efforts in the area of campaign against domestic violence and child marriage. These are unacceptable social evils that have simply refused to disappear from our society,” Mrs. Ambode said.

May 27, 2016
Repositioning of LASU yielding positive results – Ambode

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday said the conscious initiative of his administration at ensuring enduring peace and repositioning the State University is already yielding positive results.

He said with the recent ranking of the institution as the best State University in Nigeria and the 11th overall best public University in the country, he would continue to do everything to make the institution the preferred university of excellence in research and human capacity building in Nigeria, Africa and beyond.

Governor Ambode, who spoke at the 20th Convocation ceremony and installation of the new Chancellor of the Lagos State University (LASU) held at the New Auditorium Complex of the Ojo Campus of the institution, said his vision was for the citadel of learning to produce the next generation of leaders, innovators and entrepreneurs who will not be looking for employment but be job creators and employers of labour.

To this end and considering the current unemployment statistics, the Governor said his administration has proactively instituted a programme that will enable fresh graduates become job creators rather than job seekers.

He said: “This capacity building initiative tagged “Ready, Set, Work” is targeted at final year students in Lagos State Tertiary Institutions. This programme will enable successful students get internship placements in high ranking corporate organizations arranged by us. At the end of the programme, those with best business ideas will get linked to major investors and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund.”

While encouraging the final year students of tertiary institutions in the State to avail themselves of the opportunity, Governor Ambode said his administration will keep on supporting the Governing Council, Management and Students of the University.

He also assured that the State Government would not rest on its oars in doing all that is required to achieve its vision of transforming LASU and indeed other academic institutions in the State.

While recalling measures put in place by his administration upon assumption of office to ensure enduring peace and development at the institution, Governor Ambode said he assented to a bill amending the Lagos State University Law on 5th January, 2016; increased the monthly Subvention to the University and also embarked on massive infrastructural development at the Ojo Campus.

He said with the amendments, Academic Staff of Professional Cadre can now retire at the age of 70, while Academic Staff of other Cadres and Non-Academic Staff will now retire at 65 years.

He said students can now also reside on Campus, while the Vice Chancellor shall henceforth hold office for a single term of five years.

Some of the infrastructural development at the institution, according to Governor Ambode included the re-laying of all the roads on Campus and lighting up of the Campus, while work is currently ongoing on LASU Senate Building, Main Library, Staff Quarters and the rehabilitation of LASU Waterworks, Ojo.

Governor Ambode, who expressed optimism that the projects would be completed by next year, however urged the staff and students of the University to build on the efforts of his administration by being alive to their responsibilities and show commitment to serving their fatherland.

Governor Ambode further assured that the State Government would give top priority to LASU gradaunts for employment opportunities.

Earlier, Governor Ambode commissioned the new Faculty of Science Complex and the Faculty of Law Twin Lecture Theatre and the LASU Radio donated by a businessman and philanthropist, Chief Adebutu Kessington.

The Governor, who also inaugurated retired Justice Adeshola Oguntade as the Chancellor of the institution, commended the Governing Council and management of the University for their Selfless Service towards remodeling the future of the State on the path of further greatness.

In his acceptance speech, Justice Oguntade while thanking Governor Ambode for the opportunity given to him to serve the State, urged staff and students of the institution to allow peace to thrive, saying development can only thrive in a peaceful atmosphere.

Also, Pro Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Professor Adebayo Ninalowo and Vice Chancellor, Professor Olanrewaju Fagbohun commended the Governor for his passion towards the development of the institution, especially for the infrastructural development both completed and ongoing at the institutions.

May 26, 2016
Photos: Proposed interchange: Gov meets Oshodi transport leaders

R-L: Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (2nd right); Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Dayo Mobereola; Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tunji Bello and Special Adviser to the Governor on Urban Development, Mrs. Yetunde Onabule during a meeting with Transport Union Leaders, Oshodi Market Men & Women on the construction of the Oshodi Transport Interchange at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja, on Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (left), in a warm handshake with Chairman, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Lagos Council, Alhaji Tajudeen Agbede (2nd right) while a Trustee member of NURTW, Lagos Council, Comrade Paul Oginni during a meeting with Transport Union Leaders, Oshodi Market Men & Women on the construction of the Oshodi Transport Interchange at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (middle), in a group photograph with Chairman, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Lagos Council, Alhaji Tajudeen Agbede (5th left), Iyaloja General, Oshodi, Alhaja Taiwo Arowojobe and other stakeholders during a meeting with Transport Union Leaders, Oshodi Market Men & Women on the construction of the Oshodi Transport Interchange at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (left), with Iyaloja General, Oshodi, Alhaja Taiwo Arowojobe while Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Dayo Mobereola (right, behind) and Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Prince Anofi Elegushi (2nd right, behind), watch during a meeting with Transport Union Leaders, Oshodi Market Men & Women on the construction of the Oshodi Transport Interchange at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja

The Architectural design of the construction of the Oshodi Transport Interchange.

May 24, 2016
Oshodi transformation’ll depict new face of Lagos – Ambode

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday said the plan of his administration to transform Oshodi into a world class transport interchange in the next 13 to 16 months would go a long way to depict the regeneration plan of the State, just as he said that the project would also totally remove all notorious activities associated with the area.

Governor Ambode, who spoke at the Lagos House, Ikeja during a meeting with key stakeholders on the planned transport interchange, said by the time the project is delivered, the fear of insecurity must have been totally removed from the area, while Lagosians would be treated to the best of facilities compared to any other where in the world.

The meeting, which was a follow up to an earlier forum organized by the State Government through the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Urban Development to sensitize stakeholders on the project, was attended by leaders of National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), market associations and community leaders.

While pleading with the stakeholders to support the project which is billed to take off on June 1, 2016, Governor Ambode said the interest of market men and women and transporters have been taken care of, as they would make more money compared to what they are currently making.

He said: “I am so happy that we are working together on this project. What we are doing today is what we have been planning for long and our plan is to transform some notorious areas in the State to places like Victoria Island. Oshodi is known for all kinds of notorious activities and we want to totally do away with that belief and the best way to go about it is to give the people world class facility and make them to live better lives.

“We want the people in Oshodi to be identified with good and not bad things all the time and that was what made us to decide that the kind of development going on in Victoria Island, Lekki and other places should take place in Oshodi as well. I mean, I find it very disturbing that our children in Oshodi would have to travel to Lekki or Ikeja to have access to good shopping mall. So, what we have decided is to regenerate Oshodi.

“Now, if we say there are 13 Bus parks all scattered in Oshodi. Can we put these Bus parks in the same place? You know it is not possible for me to bring the drivers or the buses to Oshodi. It would still be the people who are currently operating there. But the plan is that those who are operating there now, we can make life more comfortable for them and they would still be the ones operating the buses.

“The issue is that when we transform the terminals, what kind of buses should fit into the new look and that is why we are engaging all the stakeholders, especially the transport people. We can take away all these yellow buses and put these other buses but you will be the operators, and all we are only doing is to provide you with world class terminals that you would even be asking is this happening in my lifetime. So, instead of scattering ourselves all over, let all of us be in one very well organized and secured place,” Governor Ambode said.

Among other plans, according to the Governor, is the provision of about 800 modern buses which would run 24/7 and would convey Lagosians to all parts of the State in a more comfortable arrangement.

Speaking on the market, Governor Ambode said the new transport interchange would accommodate world class containerized shopping mall with recreation and entertainment facilities, while the existing market men and women in Oshodi would be the same people to be allocated with the shops.

“I plead for your tolerance because eventually this whole thing is coming back to you but we must have achieved so much. You see, Oshodi is the entrance point from the international Airport and it create the image of where we want to go and once we are able to create that image, nobody will ever remember Oshodi in their head for anything bad. The only thing that would be left is for us to ensure that the road from Oshodi to international Airport meets international standard and by that, we would have regenerated that part of Lagos for good,” Governor Ambode said.

Responding, Lagos State NURTW Chairman, Mr. Tajudeen Agbede commended the Governor for the initiative, and expressed the readiness of his members to support the government to make the project a reality.

Also, a market leader in the area, Mr. Lateef Tajudeen thanked Governor Ambode for the concretized Brown Street in Oshodi, but pleaded that their members should be carried along in the allocation of the shops in the shopping mall.

On his part, Managing Director of Planet Projects Limited, the contractor partnering with government to deliver the interchange, Mr. Biodun Otunola assured that the firm will meet up with the scheduled time.

He said the project would gulp about $70 million, adding that several financial institutions have expressed interest to be part of the project.

May 24, 2016
Ambode concludes plans for N22.4 billion Oshodi regeneration project

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode has concluded plans to commenced construction on the regeneration and development of Oshodi into a world class transport interchange at a cost of over N22.4 billion ($70 million).

The governor who unveiled the plan at a stakeholders meeting held at Ikeja House yesterday said the interchange will be constructed into three world class terminal that will curb haphazard and indiscriminate parking and picking up of passengers by road sides by commercial bus drivers.

Governor Ambode described Oshodi as the busiest transport interchange in West Africa, with over 5,600 buses spread over 13 different motor parks loading daily, adding that the present situation in that corridor does fit into the dream of a growing mega city.

He stated that Oshodi has over 200,000 passengers boarding per day, about one million pedestrians and that 76% of the area is dedicated to transport and related activities, lamenting that the result of this was chaos, illegal markets, high human and vehicular traffic, environmental and sanitation issues and in recent times serious security challenges.

According to him,“we have a solution to the Oshodi menace. The Oshodi Interchange you see today will be replaced by an iconic, world class transportation and commercial hub. That is in keeping with the vision of this government to transform the key city centres of the State to reflect the mega city status of Lagos.

“Many of you would have been aware of the recent demolition of illegal structures and markets in this area. This was not to oppress or deny anybody their livelihood but to start the process of regenerating and recreating Oshodi. Our effort to redevelop Oshodi is aimed at improving the physical structure, security and more importantly creating the 24-hour economy which we promised.

He said the proposed redevelopment of Oshodi axis will consolidate all the 13 City and Interstate parks into 3 multi-storey bus park & terminals situated on 4 floors.

“The first terminal would be constructed at the Mosafejo Market axis and would be for Inter-state transportation, while the second terminal would be erected at the former Owonifari Market, and the third terminal to be built adjacent to NAFDAC and would be for Intra-city transport activities.

He said these terminals would have standard facilities, including waiting area, loading bays, ticketing stands; drivers lounge, parking areas, rest rooms, among others, adding that the development would include accessible walkways and pedestrian bridges/sky-walks to link all the three terminals.

“The development will introduce bus lanes, lay-bys, green parks to soften the environment, proper waste management, fencing and a dedicated security team for Oshodi. When we complete this project, we would have completely rebranded and remodeled Oshodi from a decadent situation to an iconic state. The crime rate in this area will be drastically reduced, if not eliminated.

“In addition, a shopping mall covering over two hectares will be situated in the old Mosafejo settlement. This mall will comprise recreation, entertainment; the new Oshodi bus terminal will be delivered with a Public-Private Partnership, PPP arrangement. This model allows the effective allocation of tasks and risks in the development of the interchange and also ensures that finance can be easily obtained for the project,” he explained.

He said the regeneration of the Oshodi interchange would definitely redefine the economic outlook of the area, as government’s goal was to make every nook and cranny of Lagos economically viable.

Mr. Abiodun Otuola, Managing Director, Translink Capital Development Limited, the developer of the project disclosed that the commencement date for the project would be June 1, 2016 and that the project would be completed within 13 months, adding that the cost of the project is $70 million.

May 24, 2016
Buhari seeks understanding

•President hails Ambode

President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday urged Nigerians to support his administration, despite the economic hardship they are going through.

The President spoke during a visit to Lagos to inaugurate some projects carried out by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s administration.

He was represented by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who said: “This country is going to be a nation where there will be abundance and prosperity, but there are teething problems and a lot of repair to be done. There is a lot of re adjustment and a lot that we have to do to ensure that our country becomes the kind of country that it really should be.”

He added that the government had approved N500 billion for social investment as part of its measures to tackle the myriads of economic problems and provide palliative to unemployed graduates.

He said the investment plan will address the challenges of unemployment, industries,manufacturing, Agriculture, among others.

According to him, there were plans to create 500,000 employment opportunities for graduates with another 370,000 for non-graduates.

He said besides, there would be provision of micro loan facilities for market women, using the various market unions and associations.

Projects inaugurated the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) Response Unit in Cappa, near Oshodi, which he described as not only the first of its kind in Nigeria, but one that would go a long way to improve response time during emergencies.

“With this special rescue unit, it is evident that we have moved a notch higher. There is no question at all that this facility is a world class facility.”

The LASEMA Response Unit boasts of an initial acquisition of 51 equipment including three Forklifts, one Crane, 13 trucks, 10 Paramedic Motorbikes, two Fire Trucks, Ambulances, among others.

Also inaugurated was the Ago Palace Way, Okota road, which he described as an important economic road to promote trade and investment and enhance movement along that corridor.

The Ago Palace Way is a link road that connects about four local governments, providing a viable alternative route for motorists trying to access Festac, Mile 2 and Apapa areas with ease thereby reducing travel time.

At the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, where he handed over security equipment purchased by the State Government to the tune of N1.85billion, the President said that it was a testament to the premium the administration of Governor Ambode has placed on safety of lives and property of its citizenry.

Among the equipment are 140 brand new Ford Ranger Pick-Ups and 335 Power Bikes fitted with communication gadgets, Helmets, Bullet-proof vests and other kits.

The President said: “I have also seen already so much attention being paid to security. In fact virtually all the security agencies including immigrations and Customs including NDLEA are to benefit from this latest gift of the Lagos State Government.

He said the State Government was blazing the trail with several commendable projects, including the two roads being constructed in each of the 20 local governments and 37 local council development areas of the State.

He commended Governor Ambode for the achievements recorded within the first year of his administration assuring that now that the state is in the same party with the government at the centre, it will certainly get all the support that is due for the Lagos.

“I’m amazed by the achievements of the Lagos State government so far, he said.

The president said the Federal Government will soon embark on infrastructural development in the state adding that the Lagos stands a great deal to benefit from this corridor.

“The focus of the Federal government budget is on infrastructure and parts of that infrastructure are the rail route. Both rail routes start from Lagos the Lagos to Kano and Lagos to Calabar. So they are incredible opportunity for Lagos with the development of the rail routes both the one going to the north and the coast one going to calabar.

“The Lagos-Ibadan expressway is also an important project which we will be focusing on in this budget circle. I am convinced that we have everything going and this state has a lot to benefit from this government.

Ambode expressed his administration’s commitment to the protection of lives and property and urged security personnel to continue their good work by making Lagos safer for all and sundry.

“My administration is committed to improve security being a sine-qua-non for economic and social development.”

Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase who received the equipment on behalf of the other security agencies, assured government that his men will reciprocate the gesture by putting more effort in ensuring security of life and property in the state.

Arase said: “When you (Governor Ambode) gave us the first set of equipment, I did promise you that to whom much is given, much is expected and the officers and men of the Command have worked tirelessly and assiduously to ensure that the crime rate in Lagos is within tolerable limit that will attract foreign direct investment and other investment to the State.

“I can’t thank you enough but I can also promise you today that we are not going to rest on our oars. We will continue to work and ensure that the peace and stability of Lagos State is guaranteed.”

May 24, 2016
Photo: Ambode at the National Economic Council

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, with Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu; Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; his Ogun and Plateau States counterparts, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun and Barr. Simon Lalong during the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, on Thursday.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, discussing with Governors of Kebbi, Ogun and Gombe States, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu; Sen. Ibikunle Amosun and Alhaji Ibrahim Dankwambo during the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, on Thursday.

May 19, 2016
Oshodi world class transport interchange ready in 15 months – Ambode

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday said the long awaited regeneration of Oshodi into a world class Central Business District (CBD) will commence next week with the construction of Transport Interchange which will feature the consolidation of all 13 city and interstate parks in Oshodi into 3 multi-story bus terminals.

The three floors, which will be 30, 000 square metres for each terminal, will take care of the parking and passenger demand.

Governor Ambode, who spoke at a Stakeholders’ Forum put together by the State’s Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development on the planned regeneration of Oshodi, said the project was in line with his administration’s determination to transform Oshodi into a world class CBD with business, travel and leisure activities conducted in a serene, secure, clean, orderly and hygienic environment.

The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Engr. Adebowale Akinsanya, said the project would be delivered in 15 months.

While addressing the key stakeholders including community leaders, transport workers, market men and women and others who gathered at Oshodi Youth Development Centre, venue of the Forum, Governor Ambode said: “The Oshodi you see today shall be a thing of the past in the next 15 months as a world class transport interchange will be coming up.”

In her project presentation, Special Adviser to the Governor on Urban Development, Mrs. Yetunde Onabule said the concept of the regeneration plan is premised on a three pronged approach including Urban Renewal, Environmental Regeneration as well as Transformation and Security.

According to her, Oshodi in its present state currently accommodates about one million pedestrians daily with about 100,000 passengers daily accessing the 13 parks scattered within the area, while 76 per cent of the area is dedicated to transport and related activities, which led to serious traffic congestion and other environmental issues.

Onabule said that the new Oshodi CBD would not only reduce crime in the area, but also go a long way to address the environmental nuisance locations and areas of confusion often associated with the area.

She said the new plan would also boost intra-tourism by making the area a tourist destination and increase the economic value of the State, where business, travel and leisure activities would be conducted in a serene, secure, clean and orderly environment.

“This plan would see the total rebranding of the Old Oshodi, thus turning Lagos into a befitting and an iconic international gateway to the rest of the world. It would also ensure an organised transport system that will ensure free flowing traffic,” she said.

She said the project, which is a Public Private Partnership initiative between the Lagos State Government, represented by Ibile Holdings, Translink Capital Development Limited and Planet Projects Limited would see the consolidation of all 13 city and interstate parks in the area into three multi-storey bus terminals to cater for parking and passenger demand.

Onabule further explained that the Terminal One running from Mosafejo Market Axis would be for inter-state transport activities, while the Terminal Two and Three running from the former Owonifari Market and Adjacent to NAFDAC respectively will cater for intra-city transport activities.

She said that the terminals would have standard facilities including waiting area, loading bays, ticketing stands, driver lounge, parking areas, rest rooms among others.

“It would also come with accessible walkways and pedestrian bridges and a state-of-the-art sky-walk to link all the three terminals, introduction of bus lanes, lay-bys, introduction of green parks to soften the environment and proper waste management strategy, fencing, street lighting and a dedicated security team for Oshodi including surveillance tower, CCTVs and the likes,” she said.

She added that the total area of the development of the Oshodi CBD master plan which is about 70,000 square metres will also accommodate shopping malls adjacent to the bus terminals.

Onabule said that the project is scheduled to take off from June 1, 2016 and expressed optimism that on completion, the project would be of immense benefit to all Lagosians, especially major stakeholders including passengers, transport unions, transport operators as well as shop owners.

Responding, Chairman of Lagos State Chapter of National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Tajudeen Agbede commended Governor Ambode for the laudable initiative, and pledged the support of his members towards the successful completion of the project.

Also, the Executive Secretary of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, Hon. Olajobi Adeola said with the project, Governor Ambode had demonstrated that he is a trail blazer and a man genuinely committed to the transformation of the State.

May 18, 2016
We’ll continue to execute people oriented projects – Ambode

Lagos State Governor Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday said his administration would continue to give priority attention to the execution and completion of projects needed to make life meaningful for residents of the state.

Ambode, who was represented by members of the State Executive Council at the commissioning of several local and state government projects in different locations in commemoration of his first year in office, said he intends to keep to his promise to residents that he will run an open government of inclusion that will not leave anyone behind.

At Ifako- Ijaye Local Government Area of the state, the Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Tourism and Culture Mr. Folorunsho Folarin Coker commissioned Oluwasijibomi, Folorunsho Streets and Iju Primary Health Care Center, Lonlo saying that the era of spending tax payers money on white elephant projects not needed by the people were gone in the state.

He said that the state has experienced improved physical and urban development, proper land administration and illumination of its highways and streets.

The governor appealed to monarchs and communities leaders to address the menace of cultism, miscreants and hoodlums and promote peace and clean environment at all times.

In Alimosho Local Government Area, the Governor commissioned the Mosan Okunola Mini Waterworks after over 20 years of being moribund.

Represented by the Group Managing Director of Lagos State Water Corporation, Engr. Muminu Badmus, Governor Ambode said the State now has 33 Mini Waterworks and five Major Waterworks.

Badmus said the administration of Governor Ambode was on a steady journey to achieve the daily production of 540 million gallons of water to meet the demand of about 22 million population of the State, adding that presently, the State is producing 210 million gallons of water per day.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of Mosan Okunola LCDA, Mrs Opeyemi Akindele said the water project was an eloquent testimony of a promise kept and delivered.

Also, a community leader and pioneer chairman of Mosan Okunola LCDA, Elder Abel Gbadejo said that just in less than a year in office, Governor Ambode has performed creditably well, adding that the Water Project would improve the life style of people in the area because water is very important.

In Oshodi Isolo Local Government Area, the Governor commissioned the popular Brown Street, Okota Road in Isolo and a Police Post in Ejigbo Local Council Development Area of the State.

Brown Street had been in dilapidated form for years until the Lagos State Government awarded the contract to Messrs Lubrik Construction Company Limited in October, 2015 to rehabilitate and upgrade the road.

The road, with a length of 690metres has the economic importance of improving the standard of living in the area, enhance property values, abate flooding in the area, improve traffic flow and shorter travel time for road users.

Other projects commissioned are the upgraded Okota Road and the commissioning of Ashamu Police Post in Ejigbo.

Speaking at the commissioning of Brown Street, the Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Muslim Folami, said he had promised during his inauguration to run a government of inclusion that would not leave anyone behind and where everyone would have a voice.

He said his Government had worked to promote active collaboration among all tiers of government with the community development as the centre piece.

In Ejigbo, the Governor commissioned the rehabilitated Ashamu Police Post in Ailegun, Ejigbo and handed it over to the police.

Area Commander, Salisu Gyadigyadi who represented the Police Commissioner, Fatai Owoseni while commending the Governor said the importance of citing the Police Post at Ailegun could not be over-emphasised as it would checkmate criminal activities around the area and to checkmate the influx of undesirable element in Ejigbo and Ijegun areas.

He appealed to community members to support the police in fighting crime by giving out useful information that would lead to nabbing of criminals.

In Ojo Local Government, Governor Ambode commissioned the Usman Mogaji Road and the Data Capturing Centre.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Urban Development, Mrs Yetunde Onabolu, Governor Ambode told the residents that his administration would not renege on running a transparent government, just as he vowed to make the dividends of democracy get to every nook and crannies of the State.

At the commissioning of the data capturing centre in Ojo Local Government where all unemployed youth in the area would register and collate their data, Governor assured the residents of making effect use of the centre for engagement of their youths.

Also at the commissioning of Usman Mogaji Road in Ajangbadi, the governor advised the residents to make good use of the road and ensure they pay their taxes as at when due.

A chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Ayo Ogunlana, commended Governor Ambode for the laudable strides he has recorded just in his eleventh in office as the Governor of Lagos State.

In Amuwo Odofin Local Government, the Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Lola Akande formally handed over 10 passengers capacity fibre boats to Riverine Communities in Amuwo Odofin Local Government and Oriade Local Council Development Area in Ijegun Jetty to aid in conveying school teachers based in riverine areas.

May 17, 2016
Photo: Microsoft chief visits Ambode

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (right), with President, Microsoft International, Mr. Jean-Philippe Coutois during a courtesy visit to him by Microsoft International, at the Lagos House, Ikeja on Monday.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (2nd right), Commissioner for Science & Technology, Mr. Olufemi Odubiyi; President, Microsoft International, Mr. Jean-Philippe Coutois; Executive Business Director, Microsoft International, Mr. Cassey Macgee and Commissioner for Energy & Mineral Resources, Mr. Wale Oluwo during a courtesy visit to the Governor by Microsoft International, at the Lagos House, Ikeja on Monday.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (middle), in a group photograph with Commissioner for Energy & Mineral Resources, Mr. Wale Oluwo; Executive Business Director, Microsoft International, Mr. Cassey Macgee; President, Microsoft International, Mr. Jean-Philippe Coutois; Commissioner for Science & Technology, Mr. Olufemi Odubiyi; Solicitor General/Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Funlola Odunlami and Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Mustapha Akinkunmi during a courtesy visit to the Governor by Microsoft International, at the Lagos House, Ikeja on Monday.

May 17, 2016