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Tag: Lagos State

  • Lagos condoles Chimamanda Adichie, orders probe into son’s death

    Lagos condoles Chimamanda Adichie, orders probe into son’s death

    The Lagos State Government has extended its condolences to celebrated Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, following the tragic death of her son, Nkanu, after a reported medical incident at a private healthcare facility in Lagos on January 6.

    In a statement issued by the Ministry of Health, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to protecting the health, safety, and rights of all residents.

    She noted that the government is intensifying oversight of medical practice to prevent a recurrence of similar tragedies.

    The state government described the incident as a painful and irreparable loss, noting that the death of a child is a profound tragedy. It expressed its sympathy to Ms. Adichie and her family, stating that its thoughts are with them during this difficult period.

    Reiterating its zero tolerance for medical negligence and unprofessional conduct in any health facility, the government disclosed that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency (HEFAMAA) to conduct a thorough, independent, and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

    HEFAMAA has since begun its inquiry and visited the health facility involved as part of its fact-finding process. According to the statement, the agency will carry out a comprehensive review of all allegations and reports related to the case.

    As the statutory regulator for public and private health facilities in Lagos, HEFAMAA routinely investigates allegations of medical negligence and unethical practices to uphold patient safety and professional standards.

    Read Also: Chimamanda Adichie serves hospital legal notice over son’s death

    The agency will also collaborate with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and other relevant bodies to ensure a credible and holistic review.

    According to the government, the investigation will examine issues such as compliance with established clinical protocols, professional conduct, patient safety standards, as well as the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved.

    The findings, it said, would be made public at the conclusion of the process in the interest of transparency and public accountability.

    The Lagos State Government assured residents that any individual or institution found culpable of negligence, professional misconduct or regulatory violations would face the full weight of the law, in line with existing legal and regulatory frameworks.

    While urging the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, the government stressed that due process was being followed to ensure fairness, justice and credible outcomes.

  • Lagos reduces cost of replacing faded number plates to ₦20,000

    Lagos reduces cost of replacing faded number plates to ₦20,000

    The Lagos State Government (LASG) has approved a temporary reduction in the cost of replacing faded and damaged vehicle number plates from ₦30,000 to ₦20,000, as part of a three-month amnesty and rebate window scheduled to run from January to March 2026.

    The initiative, approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is targeted at both private and commercial vehicle owners across the state. It is aimed at improving vehicle identification, strengthening the state’s security architecture, and enhancing road safety.

    The Permanent Secretary, Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA), Rasheed Muri-Okunola, said that the rebate is a deliberate, citizen-focused intervention designed to encourage motorists to voluntarily replace worn, faded, or illegible number plates at a significantly reduced cost.

    Read Also: Lagos transport commissioner tasks LBSL on impactful 2026 plan

    According to him, the condition of vehicle number plates has direct implications for security, traffic enforcement, and crime prevention, as unreadable plates hinder effective monitoring, investigation, and identification of vehicles.

    “Clear and readable number plates are fundamental to public safety and security. This amnesty period allows motorists to replace faded plates at ₦20,000 instead of ₦30,000, thereby reducing the financial burden while supporting collective efforts to make Lagos safer,” he said.

    He noted that the rebate is valid strictly within the January to March 2026 window, urging vehicle owners with faded or damaged number plates to take advantage of the opportunity by visiting the Pilot Centre at the Oshodi One-Stop Centre or any of the agency’s 140 stations across the state for the replacement process.

    Muri-Okunola added that the initiative responds to rising security concerns associated with unreadable number plates, stressing that legible and standardised plates are critical to crime detection, traffic management, digital vehicle tracking, and emergency response systems.

    He, however, warned that at the expiration of the three-month amnesty in March 2026, the replacement fee would revert to the original ₦30,000, while enforcement measures would be fully applied to ensure compliance.

  • Apapa bridge concerns grow as 23 vessels head for Lagos Ports

    Apapa bridge concerns grow as 23 vessels head for Lagos Ports

    Fresh concerns have emerged over the deteriorating condition of the Apapa Bridge and port access roads as 23 vessels carrying petroleum products, food items, and industrial inputs are scheduled to arrive at Lagos ports between December 29 and 31.

    Shipping data released by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) shows that Apapa and Tin-Can Island ports are bracing for increased maritime activity at the year-end, despite severe strain on road infrastructure within the port corridor.

    According to the NPA’s latest Shipping Position report, the incoming vessels are laden with buckwheat, bulk fertiliser, crude oil, containers, diesel, fuel oil, bulk urea, aviation fuel, and petrol. Three of the vessels have already arrived and are awaiting berthing with consignments of bulk urea, crude oil, and aviation fuel.

    The authority also disclosed that about 20 vessels are currently alongside the ports, discharging cargoes that include general merchandise, bulk sugar, fresh fish, base oil, bulk gas, soya beans, containers, aviation fuel, and petrol. This, it said, underscores sustained cargo throughput at Nigeria’s busiest maritime hub.

    However, the expected rise in cargo evacuation has renewed fears over the structural integrity of Apapa Bridge and adjoining port access roads, which serve as the main evacuation routes for petroleum tankers, container trucks, and other port-bound vehicles.

    Speaking to journalists in Lagos, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation and Logistics, Adekoya Hassan, described Apapa as a critical artery of Nigeria’s economy. He warned that the increasing volume of outbound truck traffic poses a serious risk to the bridge and cautioned that any collapse could cripple port operations and disrupt the national economy.

    “We are concerned about the outbound heavy-duty truck traffic from this terminal. If this road is fixed 10 times, we’ll still have the same result, which is collapse. It is the only exit road from Apapa, Lagos port, and the road here has been under construction for a while,” he said.

    Hassan cautioned that any structural failure would have severe consequences for port operations and the broader economy.

    “If the minister does not pay any attention to this road, perhaps if this road collapses any moment from now, it will have a great effect on the nation’s ports here. So, we are calling on the minister to put the road in order,” he stated.

    Hassan called on the Ministry of Works to prioritise Apapa while acknowledging current federal infrastructure projects across the country.

    “While appreciating the government’s efforts to upgrade infrastructure nationwide, we urge them to prioritise the Apapa ports, a crucial gateway to our economy. The roads are in dire need of repairs and maintenance to ensure efficient operations. We look forward to seeing improvements in this critical area,” he added.

    Read Also:  Fed Govt begins recovery of Apapa Bridge

    The deteriorating road conditions are already taking a toll on port users, particularly truck operators responsible for evacuating cargo from the terminals.

    Chairman of Apapa Truck Cargoes, Saheed Mahmoud, on his part, said the road has become a danger zone for drivers and vehicles.

    “This road is causing damage to our trucks. When coming from Apapa, once you get to this road, accidents occur. Some trucks fall with their cargo here. We are pleading with the Federal Government to help with repairs,” Mahmoud said.

    With dozens of vessels discharging petroleum products and essential commodities at Lagos ports, stakeholders warn that failure to urgently fix the Apapa Bridge and port access roads could worsen congestion, increase accident risks, and undermine the efficiency gains recorded at the ports in recent years.

  • Lagos establishes digital vets

    Lagos establishes digital vets

    A digital revolution is underway in the agricultural sector, with a landmark initiative transforming how livestock and pet owners access crucial veterinary care.

    This follows efforts by the Lagos State government to explore tele-veterinary platforms to dismantle long standing barriers of distance and cost, boosting food security, and positioning the country to capture a piece of the booming global veterinary telehealth market, which is projected to reach $970 million by 2034.

    In a move hailed as “the dawn of a new day,” Lagos State launched the country’s first Tele-Veterinary Call Centre, a pioneering partnership with Etsu Digital Nigeria Ltd.

    The initiative is a decisive step toward strengthening animal health and advancing agricultural innovation for millions of Nigerians.

    Speaking at the inauguration, the  Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, emphasised the platform’s role in addressing a major pain point for animal owners. “

    Tele-VET is more than a digital helpline; it is a strategic tool for safeguarding public health, strengthening food safety, and boosting productivity across the agriculture sector. By improving disease surveillance and limiting the spread of zoonotic infections, the platform supports the global One World, One Health framework, which recognizes the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health. Healthy animals mean higher yields, reduced losses, stronger livelihoods, and greater resilience — all central to Lagos State’s food security agenda. For years, farmers and pet owners—whether in urban centres or remote communities—have struggled to access timely, professional veterinary care.The Tele-Veterinary Call Centre now provides a groundbreaking solution to this longstanding gap,”  she stated. “She noted: “This initiative also opens new pathways for innovation in the agricultural space. The Tele-Vet platform lays the foundation for future opportunities such as livestock and pet health insurance, e-commerce for animal services and products, improved mobility solutions for veterinary care, and enhanced access to financial support for farmers. These possibilities reinforce Lagos State’s leadership in modern, technology-driven agricultural systems.With this Call Centre in operation, we expect significant improvements across the sector — including reduced animal mortality, faster disease reporting, improved access to veterinary expertise across all communities, enhanced data for policy planning, and strengthened support for our veterinary hospitals and field operations. From Ikorodu to Epe, from Surulere to Agege, and the entire length and breadth of Nigeria, this service will support farmers, pet owners, and animal health practitioners at every level.”

    Read Also: FG launches automation-driven public service system

    According to her, the  service, accessible by simply dialing *20791# (for subscribers of the existing M-Agric and M-Health services), provides 24/7 emergency support, first-aid instructions, disease-prevention guidance, and professional veterinary advice. “For just ₦100 per day, users gain instant access to certified Lagos State Veterinary Consultants without the need for long-distance travel or clinic queues.”

    Beyond immediate care, the Commissioner highlighted the platform’s potential as a strategic tool for public health, stating that by improving disease surveillance and limiting zoonotic infections, the platform supports the global One World, One Health framework. “This digital foundation also lays the groundwork for future opportunities  such as  livestock health insurance and e-commerce for animal products.

    She emphasised the service would  empower farmers to enhance productivity and contribute to the state’s sustainable development.

    As the Commissioner of Lagos State urged: “I therefore encourage all farmers and pet owners to take full advantage of this service… Together, let us usher in a future where no farmer or pet owner loses an animal simply because help could not come on time.”

    The Permanent Secretary , Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Emmanuel Audu, said the state has  unveiled a first-of-its-kind project designed to revolutionise veterinary and livestock services across Lagos State and potentially serve as a model for the entire country.

    Audu hailed the initiative as “the dawn of a new day,” emphasising that it underscores Lagos State’s “ability to innovate and then bring about real excellence in the discharge of governance to citizens in the state.” He   underscored the project’s strategic significance, noting its core objective is “to ensure that practitioners and people that get the best in terms of service.”

    He believes  the announced that the platform will afford farmers access to “vital information regarding disease awareness, preventive care and all that.

    According to him, the  project is specifically engineered to uplift the livestock business sector, stating, “This is the first of its kind, and Lagos is its primary piece.” He highlighted the state’s leadership role in pioneering solutions for livestock owners and practitioners.

    He explained that the service is designed to streamline and improve veterinary services, livestock services, and all livestock and animal-related services. “Its core objective is “to ensure that practitioners and people that get the best in terms of service.”

    The Director of Veterinary Services for Lagos State, Dr. Rasheed Macaulay noted that the  first-of-its-kind initiative in animal  health,  will provide connection  with renowned veterinarians to cater to every facet of animal  healthcare needs. He said owners will be able to connect with highly skilled veterinary doctors through telephone, the app, availing of convenient and accessible quality healthcare for their animals.

    The initiative aligns with a global surge in veterinary telehealth adoption. According to Future Market Insights, the Global Veterinary Telehealth Market is projected to expand at a 17.7 per cent Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over the next decade. The market’s growth is largely attributed to increasing pet ownership, higher pet healthcare spending, and the growing prevalence of zoonotic diseases.

    The World Veterinary Association (WVA) acknowledged that while telehealth should not replace traditional face-to-face consultation, it provides key benefits. The WVA recognised the service’s utility in remote areas where “it is not always possible or economical for veterinary practitioners to visit animals on every occasion,” in addition to its use in epidemiological surveys and disease detection.

  • Lagos honours 17 retired perm secs

    Lagos honours 17 retired perm secs

    Lagos State Government yesterday celebrated 17 retired permanent secretaries at a colourful pens-down ceremony held in their honour, marking the conclusion of over three decades of dedicated and unblemished service to the state.

    Speaking at the event held at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Head of Service (HoS), Mr. Bode Agoro, described the ceremony as a celebration of commitment, perseverance and exceptional public service.

    He said every employee aspired to begin their career well and ended it even stronger, in good health and sound mind-an achievement the celebrants had attained.

    Agoro welcomed dignitaries, families, friends and well-wishers, noting that the occasion was unique because it recognised individuals who had given more than 30 years of exemplary service to the good people of Lagos State.

    He thanked God on behalf of the retirees for seeing them through a successful journey in public service.

    He expressed the state government’s appreciation for the retirees’ “unquestionable loyalty, commitment, dedication and sacrifices,” affirming that their contributions had shaped the growth and development of Lagos State.

    Read Also: Appeal Court strikes out Nnamdi Kanu’s rights breach case against DSS, AGF

    The HoS assured the retirees that their relationship with the state did not end with their exit from service, noting that their expertise would continue to be engaged through the Association of Lagos State Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries (ALARHOSPS).

    He thanked Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat for his support of public service initiatives, and hailed the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Mrs. ’Sunkanmi Oyegbola, and her team for organising a befitting ceremony.

    Responding on behalf of the 17 retired permanent secretaries, Mrs. Adekanye Amudat thanked God for preserving their lives to witness the special day.

    She expressed gratitude to Lagos State Government for the honour bestowed on them and assured the government that though retired, they remained “not tired.”

    She pledged their continued support and prayers for the growth and progress of Lagos State.

  • Lagos advances economic planning transition at 2025 Roundtable

    Lagos advances economic planning transition at 2025 Roundtable

    The Lagos state government has further strengthened its long-term economic strategy with the hosting of the 3rd economic roundtable, convened to refine policy direction, accelerate sectoral growth, and support a more inclusive and sustainable Lagos economy.

    Held in Lagos, the forum with the theme: “Building Forward: Unlocking Emerging Sectors for an Inclusive, Resilient, and Prosperous Lagos Economy,” brought together government officials, private sector leaders, academics, and development stakeholders to examine Lagos’ economic priorities for 2026 and beyond.

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Economic Planning & Budget, Mrs. Olayinka Ojo, said the initiative reflects the State’s commitment to evidence-based planning, responsible governance, and shared prosperity.

    She noted that Lagos’ resilience as Nigeria’s commercial backbone is the result of planning and structured partnerships, not coincidence.

    According to her, insights generated from the forum will directly influence the State’s Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), shape the 2026 appropriation, and support key reforms under the THEMES+ development agenda.

    Ojo emphasised that economic transformation cannot be state-driven alone, calling for expanded collaboration with private investors, researchers, civil society institutions, and global partners.

    Delivering the keynote address, the Commissioner for Economic Planning & Budget, Mr. Ope George, described Lagos as being at a crucial stage in its economic evolution.

    He stressed the need for smarter, innovative, and adaptive planning models to navigate demographic growth, climate-related pressures, and global market shifts.

    He outlined key focus areas of the State’s growth plan—urban regeneration, creative industry expansion, water-based transportation, and institutional reforms to consolidate Lagos’ standing as Africa’s most economically advanced sub-national entity.

    George reaffirmed the government’s pledge to data-driven planning and equitable economic development, ensuring that “the dividends of progress are enjoyed by every Lagosian.”

    Speaking on Lagos’ maritime economic agenda, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Mr. Emmanuel Damilola, highlighted the major strides being made through the Omi-Eko water transport modernization programme.

    He explained that the goal is not necessarily to abolish road congestion, but to significantly ease it by offering reliable alternatives via waterways and rail systems.

    According to him, the Omi-Eko initiative is anchored on clean mobility, climate resilience, and economic connectivity, with plans for more than 75 hybrid or electric ferries, 15 operational routes, and 25 upgraded terminals.

    The project, he added, benefits from a €110 million EU-funded grant, the largest of its kind in the world, supported by state investment and private sector participation through the Intelligent Ticketing System.

    He projected that the initiative will transport 20–30 million passengers annually, cut carbon emissions by over 41,000 tonnes, create thousands of jobs, boost coastal commerce, and open access for riverine populations.

    He further assured that informal operators who currently account for around 90% of the sector will not be displaced but integrated through support programmes and community-driven engagement.

    A panel discussion featuring the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Oluyinka Olumide; Prof. Olufemi Shuaib of UNILAG; the CEO of Chocolate City, Mr. Abuchi Peter Ugwu; UNILAG transportation and spatial planning specialist, Prof. Samuel Oni; and Dr. Amina Olohunlana of UNILAG, reiterated commitments from stakeholders to accelerate Lagos’ economic renewal through innovation, infrastructure scaling, sustainability, and social inclusivity.

    Conclusions drawn at the Roundtable are expected to shape policy outcomes that will strengthen economic resilience and equity, guiding Lagos toward a more competitive and prosperous future in the coming decade.

  • Fire service officer dies in Lagos traffic accident

    Fire service officer dies in Lagos traffic accident

    A federal fire service officer stationed at the Trade Fair Complex in Lagos tragically died on Wednesday following a traffic incident along the Trade Fair inward Abule-Ado service lane.

    According to LASTMA spokesman, Adebayo Taofiq, preliminary investigations revealed that a commercial motorcyclist, riding against the designated one-way traffic at high speed, collided with the firefighter as he attempted to cross the expressway.

    In the ensuing confusion, a heavily laden Shacman truck (registration number JJJ 919 YK) was unable to brake in time, resulting in a fatal impact.

    LASTMA officers secured the scene and informed the Onireke Police Division, which has commenced an official investigation. Both the motorcyclist and the truck driver reportedly fled the scene before authorities could apprehend them.

    Colleagues of the deceased firefighter evacuated his remains from the Trade Fair Complex using an official ambulance.

    Reacting to the incident, LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olaleken Bakare-Oki, expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family, praying for strength and comfort during this difficult period.

     He assured the family of the agency’s support during this period.

    Bakare-Oki decried the persistent menace of wrong-way driving in Lagos, warning motorists and commercial drivers that reckless disregard for traffic laws leads to preventable tragedies.

    According to him, “road users should obey directional signs and comply strictly with government-approved speed limits as an essential civic responsibility towards preserving human life.”

    LASTMA reiterates its unwavering commitment to promoting safety, enforcing traffic laws, and fostering a more disciplined and responsible motoring culture throughout Lagos State.

  • Security: APC backs S/West govs’ renewed call for state police, urges swift establishment

    Security: APC backs S/West govs’ renewed call for state police, urges swift establishment

    The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared support for the renewed call by South West governors for the  creation of state police, urging President Bola Tinubu to use his office to  hasten its establishment.

    The party said the proposal was timely and aligned with long-standing demands by stakeholders in the region for a more responsive security framework.

    The party chapter  expressed the suppport  in a statement issued on Tuesday in  by its spokesman, Mr Seye Oladejo.

    Oladejo said the call by the governors reflected a deep understanding of the evolving security challenges confronting communities in the South West and other parts of the the country.

    According to him,the security challenges facing the country require multi-layered policing solutions, and the time for state police is not just ripe, it is overdue

    The spokesman said the South West had consistently championed reforms aimed at decentralizing policing and strengthening community-based security structures.

    He noted that regional initiatives such as the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun, had demonstrated the benefits of localised response mechanisms to crime and emerging threats.

    Oladejo said the introduction of state police would enhance intelligence gathering, strengthen response capabilities and improve coordination between security agencies.

    He added that a multi-layered policing architecture was becoming increasingly necessary as criminal activities grow in sophistication.

    The spokesman said the governors’ position reinforced President Tinubu’s commitment to modernising Nigeria’s security system.

    He said the party believed that state police, if professionally regulated and federally coordinated, would complement ongoing national security efforts.

    Oladejo urged Nigerians to approach the conversation with objectivity and avoid politicising an issue he described as central to national stability.

    He said fear-driven narratives would not help the country address pressing security concerns.

    The spokesman called on citizens to engage constructively on how the proposed policing structure could function effectively within Nigeria’s federal system.

    Oladejo reiterated the party’s confidence in President Tinubu’s capacity to deliver far-reaching security reforms to protect lives and property.

    Read Also: ‘Osun APC needs to put its house in order before poll’

    He also expressed solidarity with the South-West governors for what he described as their continued commitment to the safety and welfare of residents in the region.

    He said the unity demonstrated by the governors underscored the urgency of adopting modern strategies to confront insecurity.

    The spokesman affirmed that Lagos APC would continue to support policies aimed at strengthening national resilience against crime.

    Tbe News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that South-West governors, under the aegis of the South-West Governors’ Forum, on Monday at its meeting in Ibadan, renewed their call for the creation of state police to tackle the security challenges bedeviling the region and the country in general. 

    (NAN)

  • Lagos State allocates N245 billion bonds to critical infrastructure

    Lagos State allocates N245 billion bonds to critical infrastructure

    • Highways, hospitals, housing, schools, agric priorities
    • State sets three milestones

    Lagos State yesterday concluded the issuance of two bonds totaling about N244.82 billion, which net proceeds would be used to scale up infrastructural developments across priority areas of transportation, education, healthcare and food security.

    The combined issuance included first green bond to be issued by an African sub-national, the N14.815 billion 5-Year 16.00 per cent Fixed Rate Series 3 Green Bond 2030 and the N230 billion 10-Year 16.25 per cent Series 4 Conventional Bond 2035. Both were issued under the Lagos State N1 trillion Debt and Hybrid Instruments Issuance Programme.

    At the combined signing ceremony yesterday at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, Lagos State Government and its professional advisers signed off the transaction documents for the two offers, placing the state on three milestones of being the first sub-national to issue a green bond in Africa, the largest sub-national bond issuer in Nigeria and a new personal record of largest single issuance by the state.

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the net proceeds from the bonds would be used to expand critical infrastructure in key sectors such as transportation, housing, environmental sustainability, healthcare, and education, all aimed at driving sustainable and inclusive growth in the state.

    The breakdown of utilisation showed that the proceeds would be used for expansion of highways to ease mobility across the state, construction and rehabilitation of roads aimed at boosting productivity and development of affordable housing schemes to meet the needs of growing population.

    The funds would also be used to upgrade healthcare facilities, including the development of a new 280-bed hospital, install alternative solar power systems across schools and establish agro-processing hubs to strengthen food security.

    Read Also: Nigeria tightens wine market standards to combat fake products

    Sanwo-Olu said the overwhelming oversubscription to the two bonds underlined investors’ confidence in the governance and economy of the state.

    He pointed out that since the commencement of his administration, the state has been setting new records in bond issuance, with the first bond issued in 2020, valued at some N110 billion setting a record at the time and subsequent bond surpassing its predecessor.

    He said: “Lagos State has now issued the first-ever subnational green bond in Nigeria, raising N14.815 billion. At the close of the book build, we received total bids of N29.29 billion, with N27.79 billion within the advised price guidance. This overwhelming response is a strong endorsement of Lagos State’s vision for environmental responsibility—aligned with the second pillar of our THEMES+ Agenda—and our long-term strategy to build a Lagos that is prosperous, resilient, and environmentally secure for future generations.

    “Similarly, our Series 4 Conventional Bond targeted N200 billion. However, at the close of book build, we received bids totaling N310.06 billion, of which N304 billion were within the advised range. Given this extraordinary investor confidence, we exercised the green shoe option and successfully raised N230 billion.

    “This is now the largest bond issuance ever by Lagos State—and indeed by any subnational government in Nigeria. It is a resounding vote of confidence in the vision, governance, and fiscal discipline of Lagos State. This trust is precious, and we do not take it for granted.

    “In total, Lagos State received N338 billion in bids across the Series 3 Green Bond and Series 4 Conventional Bond”.

    According to him, the issuances serve as testaments to the vision, governance, and fiscal discipline that are hallmarks of the state administration.

    Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi said the maiden green bond issuance reflected Lagos State’s unwavering commitment to climate-friendly development, infrastructure sustainability, and environmental resilience.

    He noted that the rigorous project selection process undertaken for the green bond underscored the state’s dedication to financing initiatives that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and deliver measurable environmental impact.

    He said pointed out that the state had obtained a credible second-party opinion on the green bond, noting that the bond fully met global green bond standards, having been certified by the internationally recognised Climate Bonds Initiative.

    He said that while regulatory thresholds limited the final size of the conventional bond issuance, the state now has a prospective higher target of N300 billion to N500 billion, given robust market participation.

    “These successes reflect both the commitment of Lagos State to responsibly access and utilise the domestic capital market, and the sustained confidence investors continue to show in our economy.

    “With a benchmark now approaching N300 billion and potentially reaching N500 billion in the future, we are optimistic that upcoming issuances will continue to attract robust market interest,” Oluyomi said.

    Chief Executive Officer, Chapel Hill Denham, the lead issuer, Mr. Bolaji Balogun, said that while many states in Nigeria face challenges in issuing bonds due to transparency and compliance issues, Lagos stands out as a beacon of best practices and innovation.

    He said: “I believe strongly that the world is becoming increasingly African, and Lagos—this remarkable city-state—stands firmly at the center of that shift. Lagos can only continue to lead by leveraging the public markets in a substantial and strategic manner. Many years ago, Lagos set a record as the first state to issue in the public markets, and through successive administrations, that continuity of governance has remained one of the reasons the markets continue to support the state.

    “This N230 billion issuance is not only the largest ever by a sub-national entity in Nigeria, but also the largest by any issuer in this market aside from the sovereign. To become the first sub-national in Africa to issue a green bond is no small feat”.

    Representative of the Deputy High Commissioner and Nigeria Finance & Investment Mobilisation Lead, British High Commission, UK Foreign Commonwealth Development Office, Temilola Akinrinade, said the issuance was as a result of a long-term partnership between Lagos State and the United Kingdom (UK) Government, which included support in developing a green bond framework.

    She noted that the Lagos issuance came at a crucial time with countries seeking long-term climate-competitive financing.

    She added that the significant oversubscription of the bond issuance showed that Lagos State can effectively access capital markets, attract strong demand, and set a precedent for other regions, creating opportunities for climate-resilient growth.

     She said: “This strong investor response demonstrates clear confidence in Lagos State’s strategic direction, governance, and financial discipline. It also reflects the growing strength of Nigeria’s economic reforms led by His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which are opening new opportunities for sustainable growth”.

    She said UK was proud of its enduring partnership with Lagos State and Nigeria, which aimed at driving mutual prosperity.

    “Just one year ago, our Foreign Secretary signed the new UK–Nigeria Strategic Partnership, which continues to strengthen our shared growth ambitions through the UK–Nigeria Enhanced Investment and Trade Partnership. A major pillar of this partnership is mobilising financial investment to support economic opportunities in both countries,” Akinrinade said.

  • 100 youths graduate from empowerment programme

    100 youths graduate from empowerment programme

    One hundred youths have graduated from a four-week empowerment and vocational training programme sponsored by House of Representatives member, Wale Ahmed (Agege Constituency).

    Ahmed said the graduation was to hold earlier but was postponed to coincide with the 53rd birthday of Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, to honour and celebrate his leadership and contributions to society.

    The ceremony, at Orile-Agege LCDA, attracted political leaders, monarchs, and community stakeholders who hailed the initiative as an effort to tackle youth unemployment and promote self-reliance.

    Beneficiaries were trained in five vocational areas,  event planning and decoration, beauty and aesthetics, hair styling and wig creativity, catering, and ICT.

    Each participant got daily transport stipends, while instructors were paid for services throughout the programme.

    LCDA Chair, Akinola Idowu (Dodo), reaffirmed his loyalty to Obasa and lauded Ahmed for aligning the empowerment initiative with the Speaker’s birthday celebration.

    He greeted the beneficiaries, noting that they were fortunate to be among the few of thousands of unemployed youths in Agege and Orile-Agege.

    He announced a support of N100,000 each from himself and his vice chair, Wale Fayemi, to the beneficiaries, urging them to make good use of the funds. “This is not just about skills; it’s about building a future. I encourage our youths to register their voter cards and get involved in politics. You can be great leaders tomorrow,” he said.

    Ahmed lauded past and present chairmen of Agege and Orile-Agege LCDAs for their presence and support.

    He said the programme was to equip youths with employable skills that could help them build sustainable livelihoods.

    “Not every young person will secure a white-collar job. That’s why we must encourage skill acquisition’’

     ‘‘We ensured punctuality and commitment, any student who missed four days of training was not issued a certificate. The goal is discipline and seriousness.” Ahmed said.

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    He announced a ₦100,000 empowerment package for each graduate, in addition to the ₦100,000 contribution from the Chairman, Orile-Agege LCDA),Akinola Abiodun Idowu, bringing the total to ₦200,000 per participant

    Also speaking,  Ganiu Vinod Obasa commended Ahmed for recognising and investing in the potential of young people through skill development.

    He charged the graduates to put their training into practice and become job creators.

    Certificates were presented to representatives of each department by various dignitaries.  Idowu presented to the hairdressing and wig creativity class; Alhaji Adisa Adaranijo to event planning and decoration; Vinod Obasa to beauty and aesthetics; Elder Sunday Ejide to ICT; and Ahmed to the catering class representative.

    The event featured cultural performances, a fashion parade, and presentation of gifts by the students to their instructors. The ceremony ended with applause and excitement as the new graduates pledged to use their skills to create jobs and contribute to community growth.

    Among those present were party chieftains including Alhaji Ganiu Owolabi Dada, Alhaji Safari Adisa Adaranijo, Alhaji H.A.K. Oderinde,  Akinola Abiodun Idowu (Chairman, Orile-Agege LCDA), Wale Fayemi (Vice Chairman), Ganiu Vinod Obasa, Oba Abdul Lateef Egbeyemi, the Ologba of Ogba, as well as several Baales and women leaders.