The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Lagos state Governor

  • Recession not a crime – Ambode

    Recession not a crime – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Saturday said that contrary to the view held by most people, recession was not a crime but a period that calls for government at all level to rearrange its expenditure and give more priority to capital expenditure.

    Governor Ambode, who spoke at the opening ceremony of the Biennial Convention of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) held in Ikeja, Lagos with the theme, “A Nation in Recession: Whither the Nigerian Media?” sighted example of the steps the former U.S President, Barak Obama took few years ago to save the ailing American economy, saying that Nigeria must be ready to toll such line.

    The Governor said, “Recession is not a crime, it’s just a notice to say that you rearrange the way you do your public expenditure. That’s what President Obama did. Yes, there was a burst in 2008 and 2009 but he was very bold enough to put public money into General Motors and even the airlines and that is what is missing in this country.

    “You need to increase the capital expenditure to help companies, to help other people and even help the government to get the system out of recession. That’s the only template that works.”

    Governor Ambode said the State stood in the gap for Nigeria during the period of the economic recession, assuring that his administration would continue to show leadership, demonstrate capacity and be relentless in its pursuit of excellence despite the daunting challenges.

    He said the current recessionary climate not only taught some hard lessons but presented a new challenge as well as an opportunity to think outside the box to change Nigeria’s story from “business as usual” to “business unusual”.

    He said with the recession, the rate of unemployment soared as a result of the economic outlook, lay-offs and shut-down of businesses stating that the national unemployment rate rose to 13.9 percent in 2016 from 10.4 percent in 2015; while the unemployment rate in Lagos State increased from 18 percent in 2015 to 27 percent in 2016.

    But the Governor said that his administration took definite steps to arrest the trend, recalling that on assumption of office, he created new ministries while some while realigned in a bid to fashion out ways of creating job opportunities for residents.

    Besides, Governor Ambode said what his administration did in the last two years was to commit huge resources to capital projects, premised on the fact that the nation had no choice but to spend its way out of recession and create platforms that will stimulate job creation and decidedly reflate the economy.

    “Today, with our GDP at US$136billion, Lagos is Africa’s fifth largest economy just because we have been prudent and resilient as well as taking on board the useful opinions and analysis that the vibrant media have ceaselessly provided.,” the Governor said.

    Governor Ambode also said that despite the shortfall of federal transfers occasioned by the dip in oil prices, his administration made conscious decisions to partner with the private sector through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to bridge the funding gap to deliver key/strategic infrastructure projects especially the Fourth Mainland Bridge; Oshodi Transport Interchange; Badagry Deep Sea Port; Lekki free trade zone, and Lagos Smart City projects, among others.

    While commending the Guild of Editors for its outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the growth and development of the media and free speech in Nigeria, Governor Ambode tasked the media to live up to its major responsibility of advancing the cause of good governance.

    “Your role in this pursuit of resilience, therefore, is to lend the needed support in bringing our noble efforts to public consciousness. With your vital partnership, we are hopeful that other governments can borrow a leaf from the Lagos Model and translate same in their respective domains to promote good governance to the greater benefit of humanity,” he said.

    He assured that the State Government would not rest on its oars, but would continue to initiate and execute programmes that will make Lagos the investment haven of Africa and the tourism destination of the Continent.

    Earlier, President of the NGE, Mrs. Funke Egbemode, said the Convention afforded members to rub minds and fashion out strategies that would help to stabilise the nation’s economy, but also the media industry in business.

    The event which attracted the who’s who in the Nigeria Media Industry also saw the Guild conduct elections into various offices.

     

     

  • Bariga-Ilaje Link Roads: Ambode orders contractors to commence work

    Bariga-Ilaje Link Roads: Ambode orders contractors to commence work

    …To construct Jetty in Ilaje, Multi-Purpose Recreation Centre In Oworonshoki

     

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday expressed displeasure with the state of roads in Bariga axis of the State, ordering contractors to move to site in the next two weeks to fix the roads.

    Ambode, who spoke after carrying out extensive inspection of the roads within Bariga, specifically ordered commencement of work on Ilaje Road and Odunsi Street in the area.

    The Governor, who had earlier awarded contract for the construction of Ariyo Road, said the dilapidated conditions of the roads were totally unacceptable in the State.

    He said in line with the commitment of his administration to transform every part of the State, a new jetty would be constructed in Ilaje, while a multi-purpose playground and recreation centre would also be constructed in Oworonshoki.

    He said: “I have just gone round Odunsi Street, Ariyo Street and then Ilaje Street, all connecting Oworo Bus Stop with Bariga. I am totally displeased with the state of the roads that I have personally seen.

    “So, within the next two weeks, contractors will commence work on Ilaje Road and Odunsi Street. We have already awarded contract for the Ariyo Road that will now go under the Third Mainland Bridge after Bertola and go to the other side of Oworo.

    “In addition to the roads, on this Ilaje Road, we will give you a brand new jetty. Like we have always said, every community in Lagos will not be left behind. We should be able to live in Bariga, work in Bariga and play in Bariga.

    “On the other side of Oworonshoki, we are going to sand fill and dredge that other part where the Bus Stop is so that we can have a multi-purpose playground, recreation and entertainment hub.”

    As a swift response to the plea of residents of Soluyi community in Bariga, Governor Ambode also ordered that work should commence on the road network in the axis within the next 21 days to facilitate ease of movement to Gbagada express.

    While acknowledging that the people of the area have been very supportive to the government, Governor Ambode urged them to continue to pay their taxes and embrace peace to enjoy more dividends of democracy.

    “I know all the people in all these communities have always supported our government and so what we have just come to do is to say a big thank you to you. We are doing the work you have sent us to do.

    “All I just want to encourage you is to continue to pay your taxes. I am very happy this neighbourhood is a little bit crime free now and I am enjoying the peaceful atmosphere in this area. When you promise me peace, I will do more for your neighbourhood,” he said.

    Earlier, Sole Administrator of Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Sanya Osijo expressed appreciation on behalf of the people of the area to the Governor, saying that it was a thing of joy that the suffering of the people was about to be addressed.

    Ambode also made an unscheduled inspection to the site of ongoing construction of world class transport interchange in Oshodi, where he directed contractors to work assiduously to meet the completion deadline

  • Lagos to begin construction of three new general hospitals

    Lagos to begin construction of three new general hospitals

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday said that plans are already underway to commence construction of three new ultra-modern General Hospitals in the State this year to improve healthcare delivery in the State.

    Governor Ambode, who spoke at the second quarterly Town Hall Meeting for the year and seventh in the series held at Shibiri/Ekunpa Area Office in Oto-Awori Local Council Development Area (LCDA), said the State Government was already concluding the necessary paperwork before the contractors would move to site.

    The Governor, who took time to take questions from community leaders, traditional rulers, market women, youth leaders and party leaders in the area, said the decision to bring the Town Hall Meeting to Oto-Awori LCDA was in continuation of his commitment to leave no community behind in the development of the State.

    He said he was also in the area to listen to the requests of the people in the axis and see how his administration could respond accordingly.

    Responding to the request for a General Hospital to be constructed in the area, Governor Ambode said three new facilities have been catered for in the 2017 budget.

    “Talking about General Hospitals, in the budget we have designated General Hospitals for three areas and Ojo Local Government is one of them. It is in the pipeline, its just a matter of time, we are already closing in on it,” he said.

    Ambode also assured that efforts would be made to improve healthcare service delivery in the riverine area in Oto Awori, saying that residents in such areas have remained relevant in the government’s achievements over the years.

    “This area is traditionally and historically known to be a major supporter of government and we must give them back for the support which they have always been known for,” he said.

    The Governor also acceded to the request of the residents for the rehabilitation of the access roads linking the area to the Alimosho General Hospital which they currently use pending the construction of a nearby General Hospital.

    He, therefore, directed the State Public Works Corporation to immediately fix the roads to improve accessibility to the facility.

    Besides, the Governor directed contractors handling several ongoing road projects across the State to return to their various sites or risks their contracts being terminated, saying that his administration would not tolerate any form of laxity in project delivery.

    “I like the idea of bringing to the fore the issue of uncompleted projects. If we are able to do a link bridge in 11 months, if we are able to do Ajah flyover in 13 months and Abule Egba flyover in 13 months and we are going to commission all of them next month, how can these roads be there forever? So, obviously we should use the same spirit of delivering service to do all the outstanding roads. The Ministry of Works must go back to these sites, I must know what is going on within the next few days,” the Governor said.

    He listed some of the projects to include Mile 10 Road, Mowo Road, Tedi Road, Ilaje Road, Goriola Oseni Road, Sabo Mosafejo Road and Imude Orisa Road where only 1.5km of the road was covered by the contractor.

    “These are contracts already awarded, it’s for our own contractors to go there and finish the job, so the responsibility is on us to make sure you deliver these roads within the shortest possible time,” he said.

    The Governor also said that he had approved all the mini waterworks across the State, numbering about 41 to function optimally within the next 12 weeks to ensure that residents have access to clean and portable water.

    Addressing issues concerning the physically challenged, Governor Ambode directed that the Civil Service Comission and the Local Government Civil Service Commission should put modalities in place to employ at least 250 physically challenged persons into the State Civil Service.

    He also ordered the Chairman of the State’s Sports Commission to offset all arrears of allowances owed the physically challenged athletes in the State next week.

    Projecting for the next quarter, Governor Ambode said the Government would kick start the implementation of the Cleaner Lagos Initiative, implement the construction of 181 roads across the 57 LGs/LCDAs, complete the Abule-Egba and Ajah flyover bridges, further signalization of Lekki – Ajah express road and continuation of Road network upgrade in all the three Senatorial Zones.

    “Furthermore, initiatives for Tourism will be intensified by commencing Development of Heritage Centre for Leadership (Presidential Lodge), Lagos History Centre, J.K Randle Centre, Transformation of the Onikan Museum, Development of tourism hubs in Lagos-West, Lagos-East, Construction of 6 Cultural Theatres in Alimosho, Badagry, Epe, Ikorodu, Ikeja and Lagos Mainland, and continuation of Epe and Badagry Waterfront development as well as other tourist potentials in the area,” he said.

     

     

  • Economy recovery: Ambode calls for harmonisation of forex, exchange rate

    Economy recovery: Ambode calls for harmonisation of forex, exchange rate

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday called for a convergence in the foreign exchange rates as well as a deliberate strategy to force down the inflation to a single digit and reduce interest rates as a means to stabilize the economy and put ailing businesses back on track.

    Governor Ambode, who said this on Thursday at the commissioning of ultra-modern headquarters of Providus Bank in Lagos, said such would enable more business people to access funds and meet their obligations.

    Expressing optimism that the economy was gradually making a steady move out of recession, the Governor said proactive steps must now be taken to sustain the successes recorded so far.

    Alluding to a recent report of World Economics revealing that the Nigerian economy would soon grow out of recession, Governor Ambode expressed delight at the fact that the consistent investment of the State Government in critical sectors contributed to the resurgence of the economy.

    “While we are delighted that our efforts have contributed to this resurgence of the economy, there is still more to be done. The next steps are to achieve a convergence in the foreign exchange rates, force down the inflation to a single digit and reduce interest rates. This will enable more business people to access funds and meet their obligations,” he said.

    Besides, the Governor commended President Muhammadu Buhari over the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) recently released by the Federal Government.

    He said the economic blueprint would go a long way in charting the course for the economic recovery and growth desired by all.

    He also commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for efforts at stabilizing the exchange rates, and expressed optimism that the steps being adopted would help ailing businesses to bounce back to profitability.

    The Governor said his administration has maintained a consistent programme of actively reflating the economy through massive expenditure in infrastructural development and engaging competent local contractors who in turn employ the people.

    He said from April 2016 to March 2017, a total of N16.9billion was released as payment of pension arrears to pensioners in the State, while N2billion was disbursed to young entrepreneurs and artisans under the N25billion Employment Trust Fund (ETF) scheme.

    “We have maintained a consistent programme of actively reflating the economy through massive expenditure in infrastructural development and engaging competent local contractors who in turn employ our people.

    “Our Employment Trust Fund has disbursed almost N2billion in the last quarter to young entrepreneurs and artisans. We have released N16.9billion for payment of arrears to pensioners in the State between April 2016 and March 2017.

    “Our Light Up Lagos initiative has given traders and artisans extended time to carry out their businesses as we move towards our 24/7 economy. With these actions, we energized the economy and ensured that commercial activities continued in the State,” Governor Ambode said.

    The Governor, who equally commended the management of Providus Bank for their commitment to positively impact the banking sector, urged them to come up with programmes that would bring more financial inclusion to Lagos specifically in the area of access to financial services.

    “I urge you, as financial intermediaries, to facilitate the growth of the economy by designing products for the real sector thereby supporting made-in-Nigeria goods. I also urge you to pay special attention to Small and Medium Scale Enterprises because these are the fastest vehicles for job creation and growing new businesses,” Ambode said.

    Earlier, Managing Director of the bank, Mr Walter Akpani commended Governor Ambode for the massive infrastructural development in the State and the efforts at enhancing ease of doing business.

  • Human rights abuse: Lagos pledges collaboration with Army

    Human rights abuse: Lagos pledges collaboration with Army

    The Lagos State Government on Wednesday pledged its commitment to the efforts of the Nigeria Army to frontally address incessant cases of human rights abuse by military officers in the war against insurgency and internal security operations in the country.

    The Army, in recent times, has had its image battered in the public owing to violation of human rights by military personnel, a development which compelled the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Tukur Buratai to set up a Special Board of Enquiry to investigate all cases of human rights violation levelled against personnel of Nigerian Army.

    Addressing journalists at Lagos House in Alausa, Ikeja after a meeting with Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, President of the Nigerian Army Special Board of Enquiry, Major General Ahmed Tijani Jubrin (Rtd), said the Army was determined to address the issue once and for all and restore the confidence of the public.

    Jibrin said the meeting with the Governor was part of the strategic engagement of the Board to carry along critical stakeholders on efforts being made by the Nigerian Army to stem the tide of human rights abuse by military personnel.

    He said: “This Board of Enquiry was set up by the Chief of Army Staff to investigate all cases of human rights violation levelled against personnel of Nigerian Army in their war against insurgents in the North East and in their internal security operation in the South East.

    “We are here to brief Governor Ambode on what effort the Army headquarters is making on the allegation making rounds in the media that the Army, in their operations, have committed gross violation of human rights and arising from that, the COAS set up this Board and the committee is made up of retired officers, activists from the legal sector and human rights groups, as well as some serving personnel.

    “Our mission here is to brief the people and government of Lagos State on what the COAS is doing in his response to this allegation. I think from the composition of the Special Board of Enquiry, people can see that this time the Army headquarters is determined to get it right by getting a broader representation so that whatever the result of the enquiry is, will be known to the public,” Jibrin said.

    He added that the findings of the Board would be made public at the end of interaction with all the necessary stakeholders and concerned actors.

    On his part, Secretary to Lagos State Government (SSG), Mr Tunji Bello said the members of the Board were at the Lagos House to brief the Governor on their activities so far.

    “They (members of the Board) are here in Lagos to hear the Governor out and explain to him what they have been doing. Like the Governor promised during the meeting, we as a State Government are willing to support them in whatever way we can as we have always done,” Bello said.

  • We’ll eliminate multiple taxations – Ambode

    We’ll eliminate multiple taxations – Ambode

    …Says achievements in two years done without increasing taxes

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday said that his administration would take necessary steps to eliminate any incidence of multiple taxations in the State, especially at the local government level.

    The Governor, who spoke when he received the Chair Occupier, Lagos State Professorial Chair in Tax and Fiscal Matters, Prof. Abiola Olaitan Sanni and other Members of the Board of Trustees, University of Lagos (UNILAG) on a courtesy visit to Lagos House, Ikeja, said the tax system in the State must be presented in such a way that would be clear to all and sundry.

    He, therefore, tasked Professor Sanni to use his tenure in office to address issues relating to multiple taxations, noting that his administration was able to achieve the level of infrastructural development in the last two years without necessarily increasing taxes.

    “You know the citizens believe strongly that the way and manner we structure our tax system is done in such instance that we are doing multiple taxations within the local government and the State. That’s one aspect that we think that we can create some kind of partnership to be able to say that in no distance future that nothing exists in Lagos that relates to multiple taxations. I would like that aspect to be something of interest in the course of your research.

    “In the last two years, we have seen the level of infrastructural development that we have put in place without necessarily increasing the taxes or levying citizens to pay more taxes. You have seen development taking place in the midst o the recession. The only way to sustain this growth will be coming from the aspect of how we can sustain the revenue model that Lagos State can use to drive this growth and development in the State,” Governor Ambode said.

    The Governor also said that there was a need to grow the financial template of the State, urging the new Professorial Chair to look at what steps Lagos could take to secure the next 50 years.

    Earlier, Chairman Board of Trustees of UNILAG, Professor Eddy Omolehinwa, while introducing the new Professorial Chair, commended Governor Ambode, saying that he had raised the bar of governance since the inception of his administration by addressing the real issues affecting Lagosians.

    On his part, Professor Sanni, who briefed the Governor on his work plan, assured him that he would work assiduously within the three-year period of his tenure to advance the fiscal structure of the State through a tripod of teaching, research and community service.

  • Lagos public service remains most progressive in Nigeria – Ambode

    Lagos public service remains most progressive in Nigeria – Ambode

    …Urges retired HOS, Perm Secs to continue adding value to governance

     

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday described the State Public Service as the most progressive in Nigeria, just as he urged retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries to continue to add value to governance and contribute to uphold the excellence which the State is known for.

    Speaking at the opening session of the summit of Association of Lagos State Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries (ALARHOSPS) held at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Alausa, Governor Ambode said over the years, members of the association had contributed immensely to the growth of the State, and that it was important for them to continue to offer their wealth of knowledge for the benefit of the State.

    The Governor, who recalled the quality of recommendations that have originated from past summits of the association after their inauguration in 2015, said the ideas and suggestions have been found to be very useful in his administration’s policy articulation, design and implementation.

    Governor Ambode said being a product of the public service as a retired Permanent Secretary in the State, he was looking forward with confidence to a robust and inspiring communique at the end of the summit that would be beneficial to the future development of the State.

    The summit, which is the third in the series, was organised as part of activities marking the Lagos at 50 celebration, and it is with the theme: “Lagos At Fifty, Five Decades Of Excellence.”

    The Governor recalled that since inception, the State has evolved to become the most prosperous State in Nigeria with a GDP more than that of several African countries put together, saying that there was no way the growth and success story of the State could be documented without mentioning the immense contribution of the state’s public service.

    Governor Ambode, who described the civil service as the engine room of government, said while most civil servants are shielded from the public eye, they work tirelessly to formulate and implement policies which drive the government.

    “l know this because I am one of you – a retired Permanent Secretary. Indeed, the Lagos State Public Service that emerged in 1967 under the leadership of Mr. H.E. Howson-Wright, the first Lagos State Head of Service, laid the foundation for a vibrant and purposeful bureaucracy which assisted the first Military Government led by Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson to put the State on a right and solid footing.

    “Today, the Lagos State Public Service has the reputation as the most progressive Public Service in Nigeria. This could not have been made possible without the solid foundation built by successive Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries, represented by the distinguished personalities seated here today.

    “The vision of Excellence given birth to then has remained the same and continued to be the guiding light for generations. This shared vision, which is articulated in well thought-out policies and implemented with passion, patriotic zeal and sense of commitment is the Lagos we are celebrating today,” the Governor said.

    Speaking on the theme, Governor Ambode said the celebration of Lagos at 50 was about showcasing the past achievements and present successes, as well as building the Lagos of the future on the foundation laid by the hardworking and selfless-serving public servants, and thus commended ALARHOSPS members for dedicating the summit to celebrate the golden jubilee of Lagos.

    Earlier in his welcome address, ALARHOSPS President, Alhaji Kayode Anjorin said the programme  marking Lagos at 50 was about celebrating the creativity, challenges and achievements of the founding fathers, players and the men and women (dead and alive), whose invaluable contributions have made Lagos the centre of excellence.

     

     

     

  • How Lagos reflated economy to overcome recession – Ambode

    How Lagos reflated economy to overcome recession – Ambode

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

     

  • Joke Silva, Kunle Afolayan, inaugurated into Lagos Board of Arts & Culture

    Joke Silva, Kunle Afolayan, inaugurated into Lagos Board of Arts & Culture

    …Begins construction of Six new Arts Theatres

    ​

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday inaugurated a Board of Arts and Culture, urging them to go all out and explore private sector support to nurture new talents and generate events for a sustainable development of the creative arts sector in the State.

    The Governor, who spoke at the inauguration of the Board at the Banquet Hall, Lagos State, said that though the State Government in the last 23 months has covered a lot of ground in terms of design and structure of the arts and entertainment sector, so much still needed to be done if it must realise its goal to become a global hub for music, theatre and film.

    “The commitment of our administration to harness the huge creative talents that abound in the State in the fields of Arts, Culture, Entertainment and Sports has never been in doubt. The ultimate goal is to use all of these to drive tourism, create employment and increase the contribution of the non-oil sector to the State’s gross domestic product.

    “The Council for Arts and Culture which we have just inaugurated has a huge responsibility to translate our vision in this regard to reality,” the Governor said.

    Governor Ambode said the Board would among other things, be expected to ensure the sustainable management of arts and culture facilities and infrastructures in the State and create a sustainable framework for the sector.

    While urging the Board to generate local and international events to showcase and promote the State’s diverse talents in the field of creative arts, music, entertainment and sports, he tasked them to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage while being sensitive to the diverse cultures of the citizens of the State.

    He said the State was currently leading the initiatives to transform the National Museum and the iconic National Arts Theatre into world class centres of history, tourism arts and entertainment, while construction work on the six arts theatres across the state has began in earnest.

    Besides, Governor Ambode said that in recognition of the enormous responsibilities the Board would be saddled with, his administration ensured that only seasoned professionals, notable and respected personalities were chosen to serve on the council.

    Members of Board include, arts enthusiast, Mrs. Polly Alakija as Chairman, with veteran thespian, Joke Silva, multiple award winning actor and movie producer, Kunle Afolayan, influential visual artist, Mr. Kolade Oshinowo and  foremost artist and designer, Chief Mrs. Nike Okundaye as members.

    Other members include, Mobee of Badagry, High Chief Patrick Yodenu Mobee, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mr. Adesina Adeyemi and Director of Culture at the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture, Mrs. Saidat Otulana.

    He said the inauguration of the Board, coming on the heels of the 50-day event countdown of the State’s Golden Jubilee celebration, showed the total commitment of his administration to put the arts and culture sector in the right perspective.

    “We will continue to provide a conducive environment for a private sector-led development as a strategy towards actualizing our vision. While we will intervene where and when necessary to support this development strategy, it will be the responsibility of this distinguished Council to seek and explore private sector support to nurture new talents and generate events for a sustainable development of the creative arts sector in the State,” he said.

    Governor Ambode also thanked members of the Board for accepting to serve the State especially the Chairman, Mrs. Polly Alakija, whom according to him, is well revered for her commitment to the arts and selfless service to the society.

    Speaking on behalf of the new appointees, Mrs. Polly Alakija thanked Governor Ambode for reposing confidence on her and other Board members, assuring that they would stop at nothing to make great impact in the lives of young people through arts, culture and creative sector.

    She also assured of the commitment of the Board to explore all areas of possibilities to achieve the set out objectives to make the arts and entertainment sector evolve as a revenue generating mechanism for the State.

     

  • Ambode projecting APC positively with achievements – Solomon

    Ambode projecting APC positively with achievements – Solomon

    ….Lagosians to process CofO within one month, says Gov’s Aide

    Former member of the National Assembly representing Lagos West Senatorial District, Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon (GOS) on Saturday commended Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State over his achievements in office in less than two years, saying that the Governor is positively projecting the image of ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) with sterling performance.

    Speaking at the inauguration of Lagos Mainland Chapter of Liberal Minds Grassroot Forum (LMGF), a think-tank group within the APC, Solomon said the result of the performance of Governor Ambode was evident to all, as all parts of the State had been positively touched in the transformation agenda and inclusive governance approach of the present administration.

    Solomon, who is the Life Patron of the group, said it was worthy of note that the massive development being implemented by the Governor cut across all sectors and sections of the State, adding that Governor Ambode deserved to be commended for his great efforts at moving the State forward.

    He said: “We are happy that Governor Ambode is doing a lot in Lagos State. Our Governor has not disappointed us. He (Ambode) will be two years in office on May 29, 2017, and he has done so well.

    “This group that we are here to inaugurate today is about projecting the image of our party and the Governor is projecting the image of our party very well with his sterling performance.

    “There is no Local Government in the State that has not been touched. Infact, there is no longer rural area in Lagos State as the Governor has transformed everywhere, I mean everywhere. Just few days back, we were at Alimosho to commission a bridge and network of roads in the area.

    “The development is not limited to infrastructure alone but every sector including health, education, security, among others, have been positively touched,” Solomon said.

    He congratulated members and leaders of LMGF, saying that his decision to associate with the group was because its vision is firmly rooted in the APC, which among other things, is the progress of the country and wellbeing of the people.

    In his welcome speech, State Chairman of LMGF, Mr Adeleke Adekoya recalled how the group came into existence as a campaign organization for Governor Ambode in the build up to 2015 elections, saying that it was worthy of note that apart from its core mandate of political intervention, a lot of assistance had been rendered to people through the group.

    He said: “This is a group of core professionals with the main goal of political stability of our State. We are also doing some empowerment programmes. We give alms; we support the less-privileged; we support the aged and it is safe for me to conclude that we are a social and philanthropic group.”
    Adekoya, who is also the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ambode on Survey, said it was glaring that the Governor has performed brilliantly well in less than two years.

    “Like the area I belong to, you can see the land administration in the State and I am telling you in the next one or two months, you will see that all the land issues in the State will be solved in less than one month. People will be able to get their C of O in less than a month.

    “Generally, now, land administration in Lagos State is being automated. I don’t want to start mentioning the giant strides of the Governor in area of infrastructure but you know Governor Ambode has been acknowledged both within and outside the country as the best governor.

    “Lagos State, under Governor Ambode, has been acknowledged as the best safety conscious State in Africa. He has won awards in United States and United Kingdom and in less than two years, he has done well. In the next two years, he will also perform creditably that we will not even need to campaign for him for the second term,” Adekoya said.

    Former member of the National Assembly representing Lagos West Senatorial District, Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon (GOS) on Saturday commended Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State over his achievements in office in less than two years, saying that the Governor is positively projecting the image of ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) with sterling performance.

    Speaking at the inauguration of Lagos Mainland Chapter of Liberal Minds Grassroot Forum (LMGF), a think-tank group within the APC, Solomon said the result of the performance of Governor Ambode was evident to all, as all parts of the State had been positively touched in the transformation agenda and inclusive governance approach of the present administration.

    Solomon, who is the Life Patron of the group, said it was worthy of note that the massive development being implemented by the Governor cut across all sectors and sections of the State, adding that Governor Ambode deserved to be commended for his great efforts at moving the State forward.

    He said: “We are happy that Governor Ambode is doing a lot in Lagos State. Our Governor has not disappointed us. He (Ambode) will be two years in office on May 29, 2017, and he has done so well.

    “This group that we are here to inaugurate today is about projecting the image of our party and the Governor is projecting the image of our party very well with his sterling performance.

    “There is no Local Government in the State that has not been touched. Infact, there is no longer rural area in Lagos State as the Governor has transformed everywhere, I mean everywhere. Just few days back, we were at Alimosho to commission a bridge and network of roads in the area.

    “The development is not limited to infrastructure alone but every sector including health, education, security, among others, have been positively touched,” Solomon said.

    He congratulated members and leaders of LMGF, saying that his decision to associate with the group was because its vision is firmly rooted in the APC, which among other things, is the progress of the country and wellbeing of the people.

    In his welcome speech, State Chairman of LMGF, Mr Adeleke Adekoya recalled how the group came into existence as a campaign organization for Governor Ambode in the build up to 2015 elections, saying that it was worthy of note that apart from its core mandate of political intervention, a lot of assistance had been rendered to people through the group.

    He said: “This is a group of core professionals with the main goal of political stability of our State. We are also doing some empowerment programmes. We give alms; we support the less-privileged; we support the aged and it is safe for me to conclude that we are a social and philanthropic group.”
    Adekoya, who is also the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ambode on Survey, said it was glaring that the Governor has performed brilliantly well in less than two years.

    “Like the area I belong to, you can see the land administration in the State and I am telling you in the next one or two months, you will see that all the land issues in the State will be solved in less than one month. People will be able to get their C of O in less than a month.

    “Generally, now, land administration in Lagos State is being automated. I don’t want to start mentioning the giant strides of the Governor in area of infrastructure but you know Governor Ambode has been acknowledged both within and outside the country as the best governor.

    “Lagos State, under Governor Ambode, has been acknowledged as the best safety conscious State in Africa. He has won awards in United States and United Kingdom and in less than two years, he has done well. In the next two years, he will also perform creditably that we will not even need to campaign for him for the second term,” Adekoya said.