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Tag: Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode

  • Ajasa-Command road, another promise kept – Ambode

    Ajasa-Command road, another promise kept – Ambode

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Repositioning of LASU yielding positive results – Ambode

    Repositioning of LASU yielding positive results – Ambode

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Oshodi transformation’ll depict new face of Lagos – Ambode

    Oshodi transformation’ll depict new face of Lagos – Ambode

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Ambode concludes plans for N22.4 billion Oshodi regeneration project 

    Ambode concludes plans for N22.4 billion Oshodi regeneration project 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    oshodi_oke_2009_03_09_081938“The first terminal would be constructed at the Mosafejo Market axis and would be for Inter-state transportation, while the second terminal would be erected at the former Owonifari Market, and the third terminal to be built adjacent to NAFDAC and would be for Intra-city transport activities.

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

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

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

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

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

  • Photo: Ambode at the National Economic Council

     

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

     

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

     

  • Oshodi world class transport interchange ready in 15 months – Ambode

    Oshodi world class transport interchange ready in 15 months – Ambode

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Lagos most attractive investment destination in Africa – Ambode

    Lagos most attractive investment destination in Africa – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday emphasised the leadership status of the State as the most attractive location financially and socially for investment in Africa, just as he reiterated the commitment of his administration towards putting in place policies to attract investment and facilitate conducive atmosphere for businesses to thrive.

    Governor Ambode, who spoke in Lagos at the grand opening of CFAO Yamaha Showroom and Assembly Plant, said with a population in excess of 21 million, a significant proportion of which comprises of the mid-class with strong purchasing powers, he was convinced that the State has what every investor desires in investing in any city.

    He said aside the fact that Lagos accounts for 60 per cent of Nigeria’s industrial capacity, the State also attracts between 70 to 80 per cent of $6bn annual Foreign Direct Investment (DFI) into Nigeria, adding that measures are being taken to increase the figure by 50 per cent.

    The Governor lauded the collaboration between CFAO of France and Yamaha of Japan to bring about the joint venture in Lagos Nigeria, saying the partnership was good news for Lagos economy and a boost to the efforts of his administration in bringing investment to the State.

    “The significance of locating this Assembly Plant in Lagos is very clear. Lagos remains the most attractive location financially and socially for investment in Africa. I have come to assure you that you have made the right decision to locate your business here,” he said.

    He said the take off of the CFAO Yamaha Plant in Lagos brings the number of assembly plants located in Lagos to over 10, adding that the State still has the capacity to accommodate more plants.

    Besides, Governor Ambode recalled how his administration, upon inception, prioritized the issue of making Lagos the first choice destination for foreign investment.

    While stating that the State is open for business and serious investors, Governor Ambode assured investors and would-be investors that government would continue to invest in security, job opportunity and infrastructure which are the tripod upon which his administration was built.

    He said: “We will therefore continue to invest in the critical infrastructure and security to guaranty safety and good return on investment. As a government, we will continue to explore ways to create an enabling environment to make your business thrive. We are committed to introducing new incentives for businesses in Lagos to enable them grow, support the society and take more of our youths off the street.

    “The ease of doing business is of concern to us and as a result, we are working to improve the indices of doing business in Lagos while we continue in our commitment to carry out judicial and security sector reforms.”

    Earlier, Chairman of CFAO Yamaha Motor Nigeria Limited, Mr. Gbenga Oyebode thanked Governor Ambode for making out time not only to personally attend the event, but also arriving on time, saying the development was an eloquent testimony of the Governor’s commitment to encourage investment in the State.

    Also, Managing Director of the company, Mr. Olivier Levigne said the vision of the firm is to be the grand company and a great organisation that is an open enterprise and a leader in its chosen field.

    The CFAO Yamaha Showroom and Assembly Plant has the capacity to produce 70, 000 Motorbikes annually.

  • Lagos to establish Mobile Cancer Centre

    Lagos to establish Mobile Cancer Centre

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday accepted the offer to raise funds toward the establishment of Mobile Cancer Centre for treatment of people who require such treatment, just as he expressed absolute commitment to providing efficient health care service delivery to all residents of the State.

    Ambode, who said the major driving philosophy of his administration is to selflessly serve humanity especially by lifting people from their challenges, expressed the optimism that the establishment of the Cancer Centre in Lagos would be to the greater benefit of the people.

    The Governor spoke at the Lagos House, Ikeja when he played host to the Board of Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy (CECP) led by its Convener and first female Chief Executive Officer of a publicly quoted company in Nigeria, Mrs. Adetutu Adeleke.

    While lauding the initiative, Governor Ambode said his personal philosophy and personality was all about making life meaningful to the people and make positive impact in the society.

    The CECP is co-promoted by the core bodies of the Organized Private Sector (OPS) and its main aim is to compliment the development effort of government by promoting the practice of collective philanthropy.

    The CECP has also been at the vanguard of galvanizing individuals and corporate organizations toward donating for the building of Mobile Cancer Centres across the country.

    Governor Ambode, who described the initiative of the group as very laudable and selfless considering the focus on the health sector, assured of his readiness and commitment to support the course which the CECP has decided to take on, especially in raising funds towards the building of a Mobile Cancer Centre in Lagos.

    He said: “It is so heartwarming that ordinarily the course which you decided to pursue is in sync with my personal philosophy and even my personality. What is important here is that you have decided to take on something that is selfless and it is coming from a passion to give back to humanity and that is the philosophy of this administration.

    “What we have been practicing in this administration that came on board with change mantra is to be able to make a difference to the people and also to touch them as much as possible and ensure a government of inclusion in which nobody is left behind.

    “It is on that note that I like to let you know that our administration is committed fully to providing efficient health service delivery to our people. The initiative which you have taken especially on the health sector is laudable and I have no other reason than to compliment, support and also practically do everything to touch our people positively.

    “You will recall that just recently, we were able to sign up a project that would give us a world class Medical Park in Ikoyi and we are also strongly supporting those with bone marrow issues and the essence of all is to ensure that we lift our people away their challenges,” he said.

    Earlier, Adeleke thanked Governor Ambode for his good works in the State, and urged him to support the group in its drive to either totally eradicate or reduce cancer to a barest minimum.

    She specifically invited Governor Ambode to be the first Governor in Nigeria to be inaugurated as the Patron of the CECP and use his birthday on June 14, 2016 to raise funds for the Mobile Cancer Unit, a request which was granted by the Governor.

    While granting the request, Governor Ambode said: “I humbly accept your offer of being the patron of this group and also accept to lead the fight against cancer. With my humble self and my friends and supporters of this government, I know that we will have a successful event.”

    Other notable Nigerians, who accompanied Adeleke on the courtesy visit to the Governor, are Publisher of the Guardian Newspapers, Lady Maiden Alex-Ibru; Southwest Women Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Kemi Nelson; Executive Secretary of CECP, Dr. (Mrs.) Abia Nzelu, among others.

  • Gov. Ambode compensates two police officers

    Gov. Ambode compensates two police officers

    The Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday compensated two police officers with commendation letters and N250, 000 cash each, for the recovery of N5 million which fell-off a bullion van around Alausa, Ikeja.

    A statement by Mr Adebayo Taofiq, Lagos State Taskforce Public Affairs Officer, said the two policemen were attached to the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit ( Taskforce ).

    ”These two police officers, Insp. Abiona Hezekiah and Sgt. Ogunbiyi Agbabu recently recovered N5 million that fell-off a bullion van around Alausa, Ikeja.

    ”The money was discovered, after due investigation, to belong to Skye Bank Plc.”.

    The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner of Police (CP), Mr Fatai Owoseni, made the presentation of the commendation letters and cash to the duo.

    The statement said that the CP commended the duo for their high sense of patriotism, honesty and integrity in the line of duty.

    “This heroic act and professional conduct, is in line with the ‘Change Mantra’ of the present administration which will ensure a renewed confidence in the Nigerian Police Force by the populace.

    ”I want to appreciate these officers for their honesty and commitment while discharging their duties at the Lagos State Taskforce,” it quoted the governor as saying.

    The statement said that the officers thanked the governor and promised to remain steadfast in the discharge of their duties at the Lagos State Taskforce.