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Tag: Lagos state Governor

  • 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.

     

  • Nigeria needs economic restructuring now, says Ambode 

    Nigeria needs economic restructuring now, says Ambode 

    Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode has said that what Nigeria urgently need now is more of economic restructuring than political restructuring.

    He made the remark on Thursday while speaking with journalists in Abuja.

    The governor was reacting to the belief in some quarters that the recent ethnic tension in the country was caused by agitations for political restructuring.

    Ambode, who attended consultative meeting convened by Acting President Yemi Osinbajo on Wednesday with other state governors, said that unity of Nigeria was non-negotiable.

    He said “Like I said, agitation will never end, it is a dynamic process. Even those that are agitation for restructuring, do they really understood the process itself. And the process  itself will call for blown up agitation because in getting the end product, the process is also very difficult but for me, it is more about economic restructuring.

    “I think the political economy of the country itself is paramount. We have said that this is an indivisible country. The total number of Yorubas up North, the total number of Igbos up North, actually contribute to the political economy of Northern States and likewise the same thing in the South.

    “The kind of economy supply that we get from the up North to the South, it make impracticable for us to start to say we should only think about political restructuring. I believe that if there is a better spread of administrative independent, more activities or resources giving to the states, then you can stabilize and start talking about growth or development and before you start saying which region is this.

    “It is not an end product. So, political restructuring, yes we can talk about it but there are more fundamental things that bind us together to actually grow the bonding and it is through economic framework that you get to the political template that people are really talking about.

    “Am I for political restructuring, am I for economic restructuring. The bottom line is that I am for a united Nigeria that actually brings all of us together and we grow and become more prosperous as Nigerians. That is a deeper vision than just trying to go through the angle of being divisive,” he said.

    While commending the Acting President, for being proactive to douse the ethnic and tribal tension in the country, he hailed all the State Governors for supporting the action of the Acting President.

    Apart from the agitations arising because there are different groups making up the country, the governor also attributed it to the current period of economic recession.

    But he urged leaders across the country to rise up to the occasion and stabilise the society.

    He said “Like in the constitution, we are driven by the rule and order and also we as leaders are supposed to protect the citizens. So wherever you find yourself across the length and breadth of Nigeria, you should be able to practice it.

    “It is your belief and the fundamental right of every Nigerian citizen is guaranteed across the nation. For me, Lagos being the most cosmopolitan state in the country, this is something that we have been preaching, this is what we practice.

    “In the last few years, it has been very stable. There is a lot of religious tolerance in Lagos state and we have made sure also that everybody can go about their business and the most important is to continue to practice that government of inclusion where nobody is left behind.

    “Again, what we came out with in that meeting was to say all State governors would support the unity of this country and ensure that in our own individual state we see that we douse this tension of this tribal remarks that seems to be taking place and I think forging ahead, we will succeed,” he stated

    According to him, the agitations may not be connected to 2019 general election as it will not end with the year 2019.

     

  • Ambode presents N924.7m cheques to 1,438 ETF beneficiaries

    Ambode presents N924.7m cheques to 1,438 ETF beneficiaries

    …Targets 20,000 recipients by December

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday presented cheques totaling N924.7 million to 1, 438 beneficiaries of the Employment Trust Fund (ETF) scheme initiated by his administration to provide entrepreneurs, artisans, traders and others with capital to boost their businesses thereby reducing unemployment and increasing wealth among the people.

    So far, about 4, 000 businesses have benefited a total of N3.5billion from the scheme, while the target of the State Government is to support about 100,000 micro, small and medium enterprises and create at least 300, 000 direct and 600, 000 indirect jobs by 2019 through the initiative.

    Governor Ambode had in January presented cheques totaling about N1billion to 705 beneficiaries who were selected after scaling through a transparent screening process.

    Speaking at the presentation ceremony held at De Blue Roof, LTV 8 in Ikeja, Governor Ambode expressed delight that the government was on course to meet the objectives of the initiative, adding that it was also encouraging that the previous beneficiaries have started repaying their loans, thereby expanding their businesses and creating jobs.

    Governor Ambode, who was represented by the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Dr. Babatunde Durosinmi-Etti, made particular reference to one of the earlier beneficiaries simply identified as Jand2Gidi, saying that it was a thing of joy that they have started contributing to the growth of Lagos economy.

    “One of the success stories of this programme which I am very proud of is the achievement of one of the first set of beneficiaries, a company called Jand2Gidi, run by two young women.

    “Today, they have invested their loan in buying motorcycles for their delivery men, and hired people to operate those motorcycles. Not only are they repaying their loan, they have also created at least 10 direct jobs for Lagos residents, thereby increasing the economic activity across the State. We eagerly expect to celebrate many more success stories like this,” the Governor said.

    The Governor, who commended the ETF Board for the good work done so far, equally charged them to increase the pace of work and ensure that by the end of 2017, at least 20,000 businesses would have benefited from the loan program, just as he expressed optimism that the overall target of the scheme would be met by 2019.

    While congratulating the new 1,438 beneficiaries, the Governor charged them and other potential beneficiaries to emulate those who are repaying their loans, thereby ensuring the success of the program

    He said: “It is only when you pay your loans back, and grow your businesses, that we can truly celebrate the success of this program. Your success is our success, and together we will grow Lagos State’s economy and create jobs for our residents.

    “This initiative is another example of taxpayers’ money working for the people. I cannot thank enough all taxpaying citizens for providing the resources from which the State Government contributes N6.25billion tranches annually to the N25billion Employment Trust Fund.”

    Besides, Governor Ambode urged other existing businesses or people desirous of starting one to take advantage of the scheme, assuring that the process of assessing and selecting beneficiaries would continue to be transparent and meet globally acceptable standards.

    In her opening remarks, Chairman, Board of ETF, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru said the presentation ceremony was another milestone by Governor Ambode’s administration, saying that the vision of the Governor in setting up the Fund, which is the first of its kind in Nigeria, and his unwavering commitment to its success deserved commendation.

    Omoigui-Okauru also revealed a partnership between the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to improve technical and vocational training in the State.

    Under the programme, she said the LSETF will contribute Naira equivalent of $3million, while UNDP will contribute $1million and the funding will be used to train eligible Lagos residents in manufacturing, construction, healthcare, hospitality and entertainment, while successful trainees will be placed in jobs at the completion of the programme.

    Responding on behalf of beneficiaries, Mr O.A Goriola of November 16 Nig Ltd, commended the State Government for the initiative and pledged that the funds would be judiciously utilized.

     

  • June 12: Ambode urges Nigerians to remain united

    June 12: Ambode urges Nigerians to remain united

    …Restructuring, Way Out Of Nation’s Political Uncertainties, Says Ndubuisi Kanu 

     

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday paid glowing tributes to the late winner of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election, Chief M.K.O Abiola and other martyrs of democracy who laid down their lives in the struggle to entrench good governance in the country, urging Nigerians to continue to remain united and uphold democratic values.

    The election, which was adjudged as the freest and fairest in the history of Nigeria, was annulled by the military junta.

    Speaking at a symposium put together by the State Government in conjunction with June 12 Coalition of Democratic Formations to mark the 24th anniversary of the annulled election, Governor Ambode said the day and the events that followed would remain evergreen in Nigeria’s political history, being a process through which Abiola and others laid down their lives in a bid to actualize the popular will of the people expressed through the ballot box.

    Governor Ambode, who was represented by the State’s Deputy Governor, Mrs Idiat Oluranti Adebule, said the seed of the 4th Republic currently being enjoyed was sown and watered by the blood of men and women who were cut down in their prime, adding that their memories would be honoured until the end of time.

    While acknowledging the fact that the June 12 struggle was waged not only by Abiola and members of his family but also pro-democracy groups particularly National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), students, trade unions and indeed all Nigerians, Governor Ambode said it was a thing of joy that by the collective efforts of government and people, Lagos State, over the years, has kept alive the yearnings and aspirations of the people expressed on June 12, 1993.

    He said: “It is an open fact that the successive democratically elected governments in the State since 1999 have been totally committed to democratic principles, rule of law, strengthening of democratic institutions as well as implementation of programmes and policies that would enhance the wellbeing of all Lagosians, without bias for tribe, religion, political belief or gender.

    “To strengthen the hope of the masses in the principles of democracy, our administration embraced ‘all-inclusive policy’ which was geared towards involving all segments of the populace in the governance process; avenues and institutions were created to enable all have a voice in the affairs of the State,” he said.

    Aside that, Governor Ambode said his administration also embraced Town Hall meeting approach to create avenue for numerous stakeholders and the people to air their opinions and suggest a way forward for the State, while wealth creation and job creation strategies were also adopted with focus on entrepreneurial activities to expose youths and the people to numerous skills to make them either employable or self-employed.

    Besides, Governor Ambode urged Nigerians to keep alive the principles of June 12 by upholding democratic values and culture especially by participating in democratic processes such as voters’ registration exercise, voting for candidates of choice during election and avoiding any act that could disrupt peaceful conduct of free, fair and credible election.

    He added: “We must also remain united and hopeful for a more prosperous future for our nation. This way, we will be keeping the spirit of June 12 alive and strong.”

    Guest speaker at the symposium, Dr. Dele Ashiru from the University of Lagos, who spoke on the theme: “Development Strategy In Lagos: A Blueprint For National Development,” commended the leadership which the Lagos State has produced since 1999 till date.

    He said it was incontrovertible that former Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu incubated the developmental agenda of the State and advanced by his successor, Babatunde Fashola, while the incumbent Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode is expanding and consolidating the vision of development in a seamless, ingenious and brilliant manner.

    On his part, Chairman of the occasion and former Military Administrator of Lagos State, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (Rtd.) said even though a thick cloud is hanging in the horizon on the state of the nation especially with agitations from all parts of the country, he was of the firm believe that the situation could still be salvaged through restructuring which would not be about re-inventing the will but returning to a federation of different peoples.

     

  • Democracy Day: Ambode thanks Muslims for standing by him

    Democracy Day: Ambode thanks Muslims for standing by him

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday evening seized the occasion of his second year anniversary in office and Democracy Day commemoration to thank the Muslim Community for standing by and supporting his administration.

    Speaking while joining some Islamic leaders and groups to observe Iftar (breaking of fast) at the Lagos House in Ikeja, Governor Ambode said he chose to use the occasion of Democracy Day to felicitate with Muslim faithfuls on the Ramadan period.

    He commended religious leaders and groups for the harmonious relationship in the State, saying that the peaceful atmosphere had brought about significant development.

    He said: “Today is a very historic day for us in this State because just two days ago, we celebrated 50 years anniversary of Lagos State; yesterday, we were doing thanksgiving in the church and today is the third day of Ramadan and we are doing the Iftar here. Today is also the second-year anniversary of our administration.

    “I am very happy to join you on this significant democracy day. In actual fact, this is my only official function today. I deliberately determined not to do any other thing to mark the second anniversary than to join my Muslim brothers and sisters.

    “So, this is another way of doing thanksgiving by this way of sacrifice. It is not coming as a coincidence, if God did not ordain it, I would not be part of this particular Iftar. This is my own way of saying a big thank you to the Muslim community in Lagos for standing by me, for standing with me and for always supporting me. I recall when we went for the campaign at the National Stadium two years ago and I am happy seeing all my spiritual fathers here again two years after, I want to thank you again for everything,” the Governor said.

    Governor Ambode also urged Muslims to utilize the opportunity provided by the ongoing Ramadan to continue to pray for the development of the State just as he urged them to continue to exhibit the good character of Prophet Muhammed, as well as embrace selflessness, which according to him, are the true essence of the fasting.

    While alluding to the lecture delivered at the event by Dr. Tajudeen Yussuf of the University of Lagos who showered accolades on the Governor for his sterling performance in all sectors and sections of the State, Governor Ambode said only God deserved the praises for giving him the grace to achieve what had been achieved so far.

    “There is nothing more for me to say than to be grateful to God. He is the only one that should get the credit. No matter how much you praise me, it is not possible for me to do what I have been able to do if not for God. So, for every step we take, we will continue to give God all the glory. He is the only one that makes things happen,” Governor Ambode said.

    Speaking on the essence of Ramadan, Governor Ambode said: “This season is to urge Muslims to remain selfless. Ramadan has come to teach us how to ensure self-restraint. Lagos has benefitted immensely from the peaceful co-existence and harmonious relationship among people of different religions and this is what we stand for.

    “Our message to all Muslims is that they should use the opportunity of this Ramadan to continue to pray for the development of the State and to continue to exhibit the good character of Prophet Muhammed,” he said.

    Earlier in his lecture, Dr Yussuf said just in two years, Governor had performed excellently and taken Lagos to the next pedestal of development.

    He alluded to various projects such as Abule Egba and Ajah Bridges, Ojodu Berger regeneration, Lake Rice, Light Up Lagos project, among others, saying that it was evident that the Governor was offering good governance in the State.

  • Ambode calls for review of cultural issues inhibiting growth

    Ambode calls for review of cultural issues inhibiting growth

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode has said that if Nigeria is to occupy its pride of place among the comity of nations, concerted efforts must be made to frontally and comprehensively review cultural and political issues slowing down development.

    The Governor said for too long, the nation has allowed cultural and political differences to inhibit growth, but that such must stop for development to be fast-tracked in the overall best interest of Nigeria and Nigerians.

    Speaking at an international conference put together by the State Government as part of activities marking the golden jubilee anniversary of the State with the theme: “Towards A Smart City: Preparing For The Next 50 Years Of Prosperity,” Governor Ambode said it was pertinent for everybody in the country to unite and agree to put issues relating to development on the front burner and relegate political and cultural considerations.

    He said for the State to grow from mega city to smart city, all sectors and individuals must play their part and resolve to be on top of their game in their respective areas.

    He said: “For me, the measurement of our development into a smart city should be all encompassing ranging from the quality of service that we render as a government and the service we render from individual to individual and from business to government or from individual to business.

    “The totality of that is what we call smart. It is not enough for me to say government will provide the smart city, there should be smart business between for instance the tailor and the designer. It is something that is so microscopic but in totality, it is about being smart. So, if a foreigner comes in and moves to a restaurant and gets quality service, he knows that there is something happening in that city, he does not have to come to Alausa to see it.

    “Yes, we have been talking about smart government, smart business, smart city but it is a convergence of all the three that can help. Now, in all these, getting smart requires the examination of some critical issues like the cultural management issues, political issues, the needs of the politically economy that frustrates you from doing what you are supposed to do yesterday until next year. Those are the deep issues that must be critically examined and reviewed,” Governor Ambode said.

    While alluding to how Dubai which is one of the emirates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was able to transform into what it is today even still being within a country, Governor Ambode said cultural issues inhibiting growth must be addressed in Nigeria also so as to fast track development.

    “Yes, I like to be a Dubai, one of the eight emirates in United Arab Emirates (UAE). Dubai is not a country and what was allowed to happen in Dubai would be difficult in Lagos and so to pull Lagos out of Nigeria like Dubai in UAE, we’ve got to be methodical. So, as much I want to run, those cultural impediments, those political impediments are pulling us down but do we have the support of this citizens? So, these are the things we do not necessarily speak about. We obviously have those impediments that are limiting us from becoming what we want to be and it is for us to tell ourselves that in the next 50 years, lets break the ice.

    “So, there must be a concerted effort from everybody – professionals, private sector, public sector to resolve for instance that we want to make Lagos a Dubai and we don’t care whatever happens. We must have that political support and trust of the people irrespective of our political leanings, the bottom line is that this is more about our children. We want to do what is right.

    “I have so much passion for Lagos and I believe strongly that if anything good is going to come out from the brand called Nigeria, it is going to start from Lagos and that is why we must get it right and do the right thing,” he said.

    Responding to a question on efforts being made by the State Government to transform Yaba to the next tech hub, Governor Ambode recalled his recent visit to the area, revealing that plans have reached advanced stage to acquire a land space adjacent industrial park in Yaba measuring 8,000 square metres and turn it to the next tech hub.

  • Lagos@50: Ambode lauds peaceful co-existence among ethnic groups

    Lagos@50: Ambode lauds peaceful co-existence among ethnic groups

    …As Ashimolowo Challenges State To Break New Grounds

     

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Sunday attributed the peace and stability in the State to the harmonious relationship and peaceful co-existence among diverse ethnic and religious groups in the State.

    Speaking at a special thanksgiving service held at Lagos House in Ikeja to mark the Golden Jubilee anniversary of the State as well as the second-year anniversary of his administration, Governor said the State has also been blessed with visionary leaders who he said have worked hard to chart the path for growth and development of the State from inception.

    The Governor said it was on record that over the years, the State has grown in leaps and bounds and had become home to all citizens of the world, and most importantly, a place where hope comes alive and dreams are actualized, attributing the development to the tireless efforts of the people and the mercies of God.

    “Lagos has enjoyed peace and stability as a result of the harmonious relationship and peaceful co-existence of diverse ethnic and religious groups across the State. Most importantly, it has been blessed with great visionary leaders, who worked so hard to chart the path for the growth and development of our State from its creation till date.

    “This was the Lagos we all were privileged to grow up in; the Lagos that has given us the opportunity to be what we are today and the Lagos I am honoured to lead at this auspicious moment.

    “I want to appreciate God for His mercies, compassion, grace and blessings on the State thus far. I thank God for the citizens of the State, who through their selfless services have all contributed in no small measure to the enviable status the State has attained,” Governor Ambode said.

    The Governor added that as the State continue the journey of another fifty years, his prayer was that God would not forsake the State and would continue to raise leaders with vision, character and ability to take Lagos State to a position of eminence in the comity of modern City States.

    Besides, Governor Ambode thanked all Lagosians and the Lagos@50 Celebration Committee for their contributions to the success of the year-long celebration of creation of the State.

    In his sermon at the service, Senior Pastor of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), Matthew Ashimolowo said for the State to occupy its pride of place and accelerate development in the coming years, leadership of the State must work hard and aim high.

    Speaking on the theme: “Pressing Unto Greater Heights, Ashimolowo said for the State to move forward and attain excellence in all ramifications, achievements of the past must be put behind, while greater efforts are made to focus on breaking new grounds.

    He commended Governor Ambode for his giant strides in all sectors and sections especially the Light Up Lagos Initiative, construction of roads and bridges with particular reference to those of Abule Egba and Ajah, saying that the infrastructures have greatly reduced travel time.

    Moving forward, the clergyman who picked his text from Philippians 3: 14, said efforts must be geared towards forging ahead especially in doing things that others thought would not be possible and finishing strong.

    Among notable men of God who graced the service are the National Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Joseph Obayemi; wife of the General Overseer of the Church Worldwide, Pastor Folu Adeboye, Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Southwest, Rev. Magnus Adeyemi Atilade; Lagos State Chairman of CAN, Apostle Alex Bamgbola; Baba Aladura, Pastor Akin Adewo; the Very Rev. Ayo Olu Oyadotun, among others.

  • Ambode seek immediate rescue of abducted students

    Ambode seek immediate rescue of abducted students

    Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode Friday asked   security agencies in the state to put machinery in motion to rescue six students of Model College, Igbonla who were abducted by gunmen on Thursday.

    Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule, who visited the school on Friday in Epe, Lagos, Southwest Nigeria said the governor had directed security agencies to take immediate action to rescue the victims.

    The Deputy Governor said: “We are on top of the situation and the Governor has directed all security operatives to step up action on rescuing the students, details of which l cannot disclose in order not to undermine their operation”, she stated.

    Adebule in an emotion-laden voice urged parents of the affected children to be calm as the government would stop at nothing to ensure safe return of their children.

     

     

  • Automation of Land, Tax, Justice Administrations underway – Ambode

    Automation of Land, Tax, Justice Administrations underway – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday revealed strategies being adopted towards moving the State from mega city to smart city, just as he said that his administration has put in place policy framework for a technology-driven land administration and mapping, tax administration and justice administration.

    Speaking at an international conference held at Eko Hotels and Suits as part of activities marking the Lagos@50 celebrations with the theme: “Towards A Smart City: Preparing For The Next 50 Years Of Prosperity,” Governor Ambode said the government has completed modalities for the take-off of the digital switch, all of which he said would come on stream in the coming months.

    The Governor acknowledged that for the State to be prosperous in future and occupy its pride of place among city states, concerted efforts must be geared towards equipping the youth with technological and educational skills they can use to develop solutions to challenges.

    He said the future prosperity of Lagos is dependent on how well the young ones are equipped technologically and educationally, adding that in line with such, the State Government was already focusing on driving growth through key areas such as ICT, transportation, ease of doing business and tourism.

    While alluding to the theme of the conference, Governor Ambode said if Lagos must become a Smart City, the next 50 years of the State must cut out a path to create a framework for leaders that are not only visionary but also inspirational with passion for development.

    He said: “Obviously, this gathering is not about what we have done or what we ought to have done.  I am quick to add, that, there is so much yet to be done.  Yes, we are always in agreement that the interplay of THINK, PLAN AND ACT is a sure recipe to success; but the practice and process are not fully picked up in textbooks or lectures.  Leadership must have passion and commitment for vision before it can be delivered as a product.

    “The next fifty years must cut out a path for us to create a framework for leaders that are not only visionary but also inspirational with passion if Lagos must become a Smart City.

    “Our State has made this commitment which has the potential to improve lives of our citizens, expand economic opportunities and access to critical public services.  The Smart City initiative is Lagos Urban Development vision to integrate all sectors of governance into one box of growth and development – through efficient service delivery to each citizen.

    “The future prosperity of Lagos is dependent on how well we can equip our children and youth with technological and educational skills they can use to develop the solutions of the future,” he said.

    Besides, the Governor acknowledged the fact that for government to facilitate investment in infrastructure, it was imperative for a top notch public service to be in place, especially delivery of quality service by civil servants, saying that such would facilitate greater confidence in government from the private sector.

    In his keynote address, Professor Paul Collier from Oxford University, said in its years of existence, Lagos has shown sustained and visible progress, and especially commended the leadership of the State over the years for moving in the right direction.

    He commended Governor Ambode for his initiative on mass transportation, but recommended that it should be scaled up with the deployment of technology, while also calling for introduction of tax to stop people from driving private cars to already congested areas.

    Collier, who is a development expert, also advocated for power issues to be addressed as well as clear legal and secured land ownership, saying that such was vital both for housing and commercial investment.

    To address housing deficit, Collier said the State Government must plan for housing development through plots preparation, layout of streets, road network, storage, sewage, water and electricity, among others, while the private sector can develop the rest.

    Also, other discussants – Mrs Mosun Bello- Olusoga, Chairman of Access Bank; Uyi Akpata, Managing Partner, PWc and Dayo Adelegan, President of British Nigeria Chamber of Commerce advocated for the globalization of the Lagos economy and proper environmental management initiatives.

     

  • Lagos greatness lies in its melting point for all cultures – Ambode

    Lagos greatness lies in its melting point for all cultures – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday attributed the greatness of the State to its ability to be the melting point for all cultures, just as he said that the people of the State over the years have distinguished themselves in making others feel home away from home.

    Speaking at the Lagos History Lecture held at Eko Hotels and Suits with the theme: “Lagos: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” as part of activities marking Golden Jubilee anniversary of the State, Governor Ambode recalled that since inception, Lagos had effectively transited from an administrative entity to become the melting point of cultures and the socio-political and economic jurisdiction of global significance, rated today, as the fifth largest economy in Africa.

    He described the lecture as an opportunity to have an introspection into the past, engage in an objective appraisal of the present and, a realistic prognosis of the future of another fifty years.

    He said such necessitated the assemblage of knowledgeable royal fathers, elder statesmen, jurists of distinction and Lagos indigenes of repute to trace the history of the State and proffer insights as to the areas to concentrate on for the future.

    Going down memory lane, Governor Ambode said: “It is important for us at this epochal gathering to refresh our memory about the beginning; the journey of how the AWORI played an important role in the evolution of what we call Lagos today:

    “The same applies to the evolution of the EKO Royalty with the coming of the Bini from present day Edo State and even the momentous role played by the TAPPA in the making of our dear State.

    “Our greatness is in our ability to be the melting point for all cultures and as at today, there is no tribe in Nigeria that is not represented in Lagos. From the Hausa/Fulani to the Igbo to the Kanuri to the Ibibio, the Nupe, the Berom, the Igala and so on and so forth all have spaces to live and live well in our dear State.

    “Lagos is not just national in outlook. It is international. The Americans are here; the British are here; South Africans are in their thousands; the Chinese are not in short supply; and the Indians even have a community in Lagos.

    “With all sense of modesty, there is no other State like Lagos in Nigeria. Some may say we owe this to the fact that Lagos used to be a Federal Capital Territory. But I really do not think so. While that may have contributed to our greatness, we are also a unique people ready to make fellow human-beings from other lands feel home away from home,” the Governor said.

    While noting the progress which Lagos had witnessed politically, socially and economically, Governor Ambode said he was certain that the progenitors of the State would be happy in their graves with the tremendous progress in all spheres of governance that have elatedly become the lots of the State.

    In his keynote lecture, Professor Hakeem Danmole traced the history of Lagos since the inception, saying that it was commendable that the legacy of achievement has been sustained in the State.

    Going foward, Danmole, who is the Dean, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, said the State must strictly adhere to rules and regulations, adding that for Lagos to reach greater heights, developmental plan must be followed.

    While calling on the Federal Government to collaborate with the State Government to fast-track development in Lagos, Danmole urged the State Government to fully utilize its God’s given environment especially in area of water transportation.

    Responding to a call by Governor Ambode for the notion of Lagos being a no man’s land to be addressed, first Town Clark of the Lagos City Council, Senator Habib Fasinro and former Minister of Works, Alhaji Femi Okunnu (SAN) said those behind such claim were ignorant.

    They said such claim was not only misleading but confrontational, as same abused the history of the indiginous people of Lagos such as the Aworis, Egbas, Binis, Ijeshas, Nupes, Brazilian returnees, among others.

    On his part, Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu corroborated Fasinro and Okunnu, and urged the National Assembly to reconsider the motion to grant special status to Lagos, saying doing so would be in best interest of Nigeria.