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Tag: Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode

  • Ambode mourns death of LASIEC Commissioner, Lateef Raji

    Ambode mourns death of LASIEC Commissioner, Lateef Raji

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode Monday expressed shock over the death of a Commissioner of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC), Mr. Abdullateef Raji.

    Raji, who was a former Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to former Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, died at about 4am on Monday at the age of 54 after a prolonged battle with throat cancer.

    The governor, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Habib Aruna, described the late Raji as a seasoned media strategist who was always committed to serve in any capacity he found himself.

    “Raji in no small way contributed to the success of the last local government elections in Lagos where he served as one of the LASIEC Commissioners. He was ever committed to contribute his quota in any office he was appointed to serve.

    “His demise has come as a rude shock to us as he died in the line of duty. He was a brilliant scholar and an astute writer of repute, who used his pen to enhance the narrative of rule of law and democracy in Nigeria,” Ambode said.

    While praying for the peaceful repose of his soul, the Governor urged his family to draw strength from the fact that he made meaningful impact during his lifetime.

    “On behalf of my family and the good people of Lagos state, I want to express our heartfelt condolence to the family of Lateef Raji on this great and irreparable loss. He will be sorely missed”, he said.

    Raji was born on October 12, 1962. He attended Ireakari Grammar School, Idoani, between 1974 and 1978. He also attended New Church High School, Owo, Ondo State in 1978 and obtained his Ordinary Level School Certificate in 1980.

    He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Lagos in 1997 and also a Master’s degree in the same course from the same University in 2000. Between 1996 and 2000, he worked as an Editor with Ahrada West African Publishing Ltd. and was later elevated to the post of the Editor- in – Chief of the company in which capacity he worked between 2000 and 2003.

    He also served as Nigeria’s representative at the World Education Resources Centre, United Kingdom between 2003 and 2007. Between 2007 and 2011, Raji was the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of Thrazel Nigerian Ltd.

    A member of many societies and associations, Raji had written and published many articles on a variety of subjects.

    Until his demise, he was a doctoral student at the University of Lagos, Yaba, Lagos.

     

  • Lagos requests for two additional Area Commands in Ikorodu, Badagry

    Lagos requests for two additional Area Commands in Ikorodu, Badagry

    …IGP visits Gov, says Lagos has set pace in security matters

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday requested for two additional Police Area Commands, saying that it would go a long way in tackling the nefarious activities of criminally minded persons once and for all.

    Ambode, who made the request when the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Idris Ibrahim paid him a courtesy visit at the Lagos House in Ikeja, said the additional Area Commands, if granted, would be set up in Ikorodu and Badagry, assuring that the State Government was ready to provide the funds to set up the Commands.

    “Funding is key to security, but security also is fundamental to the growth of Lagos and the prosperity of Lagos, so we are ready and we are committed to support all our security agencies, the Navy, the Police to make sure that we have a safe city where we can be investor friendly and also grow the economy of Nigeria.

    “I am ready to fund additional area commands in Lagos, so I am requesting that we should do two additional commands in Lagos, one in Ikorodu and another one in Badagry. There is a need for us to pay more attention to the Ikorodu axis because of the kind of reports that we are getting from there,” the Governor said.

    Alluding to the multi-billion dollar investments coming up in the Lekki corridor and the need to secure the area, the Governor also requested that the Mobile Police Command in Ibeju Lekki be relocated to Epe.

    “We already have some kind of Command in Ibeju Lekki which is the Mobile Police, but I also request that because of the kind of economic activities that is coming up in the Lekki Free Trade Zone and the road expansion that we are doing in the Epe axis, we would like to request that the Mobile Command should be relocated to Epe itself,” he said.

    Ambode, while thanking the IGP and the Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo for their interventions in securing the release of the six kidnapped Igbonla Model College students, said the incident clearly showed the need to beef up security in the riverine borders between Ondo, Ogun and Lagos States.

    He said the South West Governor’s Forum in a recent meeting had resolved to set up a Joint Task Force on security to stop criminals using the waterways as an escape route, just as he sought the support of the IGP towards ensuring the success of the initiative.

    While pledging the commitment of the State Government to provide additional gun boats and equipment to safeguard the waterways, Governor Ambode also revealed that his administration has already concluded plans to procure a surveillance aircraft with the capacity to deal with all forms of crimes on the waterways, assuring that the Government would spare nothing to ensure that the State remains safe and secured for residents and investors.

    “In addition to that, we commit ourselves also to provide additional Hilux vehicles and personnel also so that with the joint task force, we can actually clean up our waterways. I’ll like to also let you know that we are also in the process of procuring a surveillance aircraft that can actually deal with issues that relate to our waterways.

    “I am in total agreement with the IGP that there is a need for us to create a marine post along our waterways which you are already looking at, we must create some kind of outpost between Ondo, Ogun and Lagos so that these criminals cannot come into Lagos. The peace of Lagosians is of paramount to us so that we can checkmate them before they enter into Lagos we are also ready to fund that and then make sure that we train all our personnel and then seek the support of the Navy.

    “All these that I have requested, I know that it comes with additional personnel and it comes with additional financing, but I give my commitment; the safety of citizens of Lagos is paramount to me and I am ready to fund it,” Governor Ambode said.

    The Governor also commended the IGP for his efforts in improving security across the country, especially in Lagos, noting that since he came on board, security in the State has greatly improved.

    Earlier, IGP Idris Ibrahim commended the Governor for his tremendous support to the Police Command in the State especially in providing equipment and welfare for officers, saying that Lagos was leading the way in matters pertaining to security, especially through its innovative Security Trust Fund which had become a national model.

    “Lagos has been a pacesetter in various areas. You have been very dynamic. First you are the first government to introduce the Security Trust Fund and this is a concept we are trying to introduce nationally. We have the Police Trust Fund bill before the National Assembly, a public hearing has been heard on this bill and we believe it will be one of those instruments to change the face of policing in Nigeria,” Ibrahim said.

    He said the Police was working out modalities to enhance their activities in the State especially in the coastal areas, saying that about 10 additional gun boats would be procured, while the Nigeria Police Marine would be enhanced to man the boats along the waterways.

    “I believe with these enhancements and with the capacity to provide these gun boats, the Nigeria Police Force will effectively check these criminal activities and ensure security in Lagos and other areas,” the IGP said.

    On the request of the Governor to set up two additional Police Area Commands, the IGP said the plan was already ongoing to increase Area Commands across the country to improve security surveillance and adequately address crime.

  • Reconstruction of Oshodi/Int’l Airport road begins September- Ambode

    Reconstruction of Oshodi/Int’l Airport road begins September- Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday said that work on the proposed expansion and reconstruction of the Oshodi-International Airport Road would commence next month.

    The Governor, who spoke at the Third Quarter Town Hall Meeting, the 8th in the series, held at the Badore Ferry Terminal, Lagos also disclosed that plans are already underway to commence the construction of 181 local government roads next month.

    On the Oshodi-International Airport Road, Governor Ambode said the construction, which has already been awarded, would see the transformation of the road from four lanes to 10 lanes from Oshodi to the International Airport with interchange and flyover that would drop commuters to the Local Airport.

    It would be recalled that in May 2017, Acting President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo approved that the road be handed over to the Lagos State Government for total reconstruction.

    Ambode, who had described the current state of the road as a national disgrace, said that work would begin in earnest come September.

    On the delay in the commencement of rehabilitation of 181 inner roads, Governor Ambode said the development was due to the fluctuation in dollar rate at the time the bid was last opened, but that a new bid would be opened in the next two weeks, while work would commence in September.

    “By the next two to three weeks, I will reopen the advert to get a new cost and all things been equal the job would start on the roads by end of September,” he said.

    Ambode also assured residents that the State Public Works would seize the period of the break of the rainy season to fix all potholes across the State in order to improve drive time for motorists.

    Speaking on the Cleaner Lagos Initiative (CLI) billed to commence next month, Governor Ambode urged the people to be patient with his administration as the plan which is a holistic and comprehensive waste management policy was currently in its gestation period.

    He said once fully operational, waste would be collected in line with international best practices, while all parts of the State would be kept clean always.

    The Governor however urged residents to adopt new attitude to disposing waste and desist from dumping in drainages and canals, assuring that the Government would provide adequate bins to discourage indiscriminate dumping.

    “The question to ask is why are people putting their waste in the drains and canals hoping that somehow the water will flush it away? The answer comes back to government because we have not been able to provide the people with enough bins or places where they can put the dirt.

    “They cannot leave the dirt in the house so they must have a channel to get it out. As government been able to provide enough locations, bins, bags and so on where they can put that refuse and then we can collect it and when we collect it efficiently, as part of their attitude, they will not go back to the canals and the drains. They will only go back to where we have provided for them.

    “Now, so we have enough equipment to clean Lagos? Are we having enough dino bins, plastic bags, compactors that can go round the population of 22million people? The answer before now is no. We are the largest waste producer in the world more than New York. New York produces 10,000 tonnes of waste every day, the waste accounted for in Lagos is 13,000 tonnes per day not to talk of areas that are not documented”.

    “Do we have enough equipment and compactors? We don’t have, but how do we have it? We have not increased the taxes you are paying. The population is increasing and by that fact the waste is increasing and we have not increased revenue. But we need new equipment. Some people were doing it for us before but we all saw the equipment they have been using to clean up the State and the truth is it can never do it right.

    “If we say we want to be a smart city and globally competitive, we must use the approach that allows you to collect waste in a globally competitive way and that is what we have done with the CLI without me punishing tax payers. We have a partnership that provides 500 brand new compactors without me paying one naira yet and with the partnership, we will provide 27,500 sanitation workers in all our wards across the State who will be uniformed and clean Ikorodu, Ayobo the same way they clean Victoria Island and then they will provide bins where our people can now have the culture and attitude to put their dirt in the bins instead of putting it in the canals and drains,” Governor Ambode said.

    In the meantime, Governor Ambode said all the 20 Local Government and 37 Local Council Development Chairmen have been mandated to ensure 24/7 cleaning of the environment, while officials of the State Government would be moving round to evacuate waste.

    As part of the initiatives to enhance commuting within the State, the Governor said new modern bus terminals would be constructed commencing from this quarter in Marina, Ajah, Ojota, Agege, Iju Ishaga and Iyana Ipaja, while as part of the integrated transport system, a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) would be constructed to connect Badore Jetty to Ajah.

    Governor Ambode also said that his administration has earned the trust of Lagosians in the last 26 months, adding that taxes paid have been judiciously utilised to make life more comfortable for residents in the State.

    He therefore thanked Lagosians for cooperating and helping his administration to translate its visions and plans for the State to reality, noting that without their taxes, it would have been impossible.

    “I urge all other taxable individuals yet to join the tax net to go to the nearest Lagos State Inland Revenue office to register.  Feel free to honour your civic obligations.  We believe we have earned your trust.  Every kobo paid as tax will be judiciously used for the good of Lagosians.

    “Our government feels emboldened by the tremendous support and cooperation you have continued to give us. This was also evident in your action of July 22nd when you voted massively for the All Progressives Congress during the just concluded Local Government elections,” Governor Ambode said.

    He added that the Badore Road would be expanded at its entrance from Ajah Roundabout, while plans are afoot to construct Oke-Ira Nla Road as an alternative to totally eliminate traffic along the axis.

    Responding to complaints by a resident of the axis, Mrs Abiodun Dina on the activities of dredgers who are fond of spoiling the road and parking indiscriminately on the road thereby subjecting people to avoidable traffic snarl, Governor Ambode said in as much as government was not interested in shutting down businesses but he would have to wield the big stick if the dredgers fail to comply with rules of engagement.

    The town hall meeting had in attendance the Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu I, members of the State Executive Council, members of the House of Assembly, top government functionaries, party chieftains, traditional rulers, among others.

  • Cleaner Lagos initiative takes off September – Ambode

    Cleaner Lagos initiative takes off September – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday said that the Cleaner Lagos Initiative (CLI), which is a major reform of his administration to revolutionize the solid waste management sector in line with international best practices will commence in the first week of September.

    The Governor, who spoke at a media workshop in Lagos to sensitize journalists ahead of the take-off, said the initiative would not only change the solid waste management system in the State, but would also engender a sustainable, cleaner and healthier environment for Lagosians, just as he assured that the people would be better for it.

    Ambode who was represented by the Commissioner for the Environment, Dr. Babatunde Adejare, said all was now set for the eventual take off, with the passage of the Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017, the concession of residential waste collection and procession to a reputable and competent multinational Waste Services Company as well as the transformation of the erstwhile Kick Against Indiscipline Brigade to a more civil Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC).

    The Governor said in the interim, a temporary intervention programme tagged “Operation Deep Clean”, was already on going with a mandate to evacuate solid waste from dark spots and major locations across the State, urging Lagosians to cultivate the habit of bagging their waste properly.

    “We are going to start the CLI by first week in September and by the grace of God Lagosians would see how we intends to clean Lagos and make it a more beautiful and liveable environment for us.

    “In the meantime, we have thrown up and intervention programme that the Ministry of the Environment, LAWMA and Visionscape is doing called ‘Operation Deep Clean’. The three of them have combined together and are doing this intervention programme supported by our PSP team and even we have started using open trucks for them just to make sure that we don’t have refuse so much on our road.

    “I want to tell Lagosians that don’t dump refuse irresponsibly, bag your refuse, put it in front of your house and I assure you, this Government would come and take them. Don’t worry, where there is no pain, there is no gain, this is just a transition that we are in and by the grace of God come first week in September, we would see the new thing and we would all enjoy it and be happy about it,” he said.

    Besides, Governor Ambode said that the commitment of his administration to ensure the successful implementation of the CLI was driven by the strategic importance of the environment as a bedrock upon which development and economic prosperity rest.

    He also said that the spirited efforts to improve sanitation and hygiene are founded with the determination to provide a level playing field for all investors and inject international best practices into Solid Waste Management sector in the State.

    “This initiative has offered us the unique opportunity to seek private investment from nationally and internationally renowned players in the waste management sector, infuse more efficiency and enhance the standard of living of our people by attaining a cleaner, safer and more secured environment,” the Governor said.

    The Governor, therefore, said the workshop was necessary to deepen the understanding of members of the media and put the CLI in proper perspective with regards to its modus operandi and the expected benefits to Lagosians.

    “The CLI is a reform of the solid waste management sector of the State and that is why we are here. We know that by educating and exposing the media to all the facts about CLI, you would be able to educate the people because their buy-in is very critical and very important and you know we are responsible for them and to them, so therefore, educating them through you is very important,” he said.

  • Integration: Afenifere lauds Ambode, S’West governors’ forum

    Integration: Afenifere lauds Ambode, S’West governors’ forum

    Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Afenifere has commended Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode and his counterparts in the South West Geopolitical Zone for taking far reaching decisions targeted at promoting commonality for the region.

    In a statement by the National Publicity Secretary of the Group, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, the Group commended Governor Ambode, saying that it was during his administration that Lagos State keyed into Oodua Investment to cement the oneness of the Yoruba nation.

    “It is gratifying to note the sense of history of the Governor (Ambode) in remembering the role the Western Regional Government under Awolowo played in the development of the entire West when Cocoa was our mainstay by committing to use the economic strength of Lagos to rob positively on other states in Yorubaland.

    “Ambode has on behalf of Lagos State, pledged to invest billions of naira to acquire vast acres of land in the hinterland states of Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti and Ogun for modern, technologically driven farming. Both raw and processed products from such farms would be brought back to Lagos for effective sales, given its remarkable and huge market potential of the State.

    “This is quite commendable and realizable within effective partnership with his brother governors so our states can benefit from one another by creating jobs and providing food security,” the Group said.

    Alluding to the meeting held by the Governors in Abeokuta recently, the Afenifere threw its weight behind the communiqué issued at the end of the meeting which amongst other things proposed a joint task force to be set up to tackle the incidence of insecurity in the region and also harness the competitive advantage of constituent states for sustainable regional development.

    Afenifere also lauded the move by the Governors to convene a regional agric summit in Ibadan aimed at improving food security of the region and also the establishment of a Western Nigeria Export Development Initiative (WENEDI) to drive the export potentials of the region.

    “It is equally salutary that the Governors agreed that the artificial boundaries of states, religions, political affiliations, among others, would not be a barrier to regional development and urged all the states to be encouraged to significantly improve bilateral and multilateral co-operation to foster regional development.

    “We are happy that they have affirmed commitment to the development of our people to override petty party differences .It is not an accident that the Yoruba call party “Pati”(set aside).We must set aside things that divide as we search for verb for our noun in the syntax of national experience.

    “We urge them to match these words with action in order to ensure that the Yoruba nation is restored to the right path of giant developmental strides which the years of unitary rule have derailed us from. It’s time to resume our march of history,” Afenifere said.

    The Group also urged Yoruba people to key into these strategic goals of the Governors “by breaking all mental and artificial barriers that have hitherto been created among a people United by history, culture and the quest for development.

    “These are the imperatives of our quest for autonomy within Nigeria via restructuring of the country to have a proper federation as obtained in the federal constitution negotiated by our founding fathers at Independence.”

     

  • We’ve empowered 4000 businesses to boost Lagos economy- Ambode

    We’ve empowered 4000 businesses to boost Lagos economy- Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday said that the N25billion Employment Trust Fund (ETF) set up by his administration has successfully empowered over 4000 small and medium scale businesses in the last two years as a means to boost the economy of the State.

    Governor Ambode, who spoke when he received a delegation from Legatum Center for Development and Entrepreneurship, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) on a courtesy visit at the Lagos House in Ikeja, said deliberate efforts have been made by his administration to aid businesses and encourage budding entrepreneurs in the State.

    Alluding to the fact that the State boasts of a burgeoning population of youths, the Governor said that driving entrepreneurship growth was a sure way to engage the youths meaningfully to enable them contribute their quota to the growth of the economy.

    “There is no way under this economic recession that we have found ourselves that we can actually employ all the people under that age bracket. So the best thing is to create a framework that would allow them to dissipate their energy and creativity into the things that they would love to do.

    “That’s why we set up the Employment Trust Fund with a budget of N25billion to be able to touch those younger ones that would not necessarily have the capital to recreate their skills and so far so good in the last two years we have done almost about 4000 entrepreneurs and we are doing more,” he said.

    Welcoming the partnership prospects with MIT, Governor Ambode said he was excited that the Legatum Center had finally discovered the importance of the African continent as a key part of the map to driving innovation as well as entrepreneurship and Lagos as one of its major city partners.

    Besides, the Governor said that the setting up of the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment was in consonance with the ideals of the Legatum Center, assuring that his administration would do all it can to sustain the partnership beyond entrepreneurship.

    “I am committing the State Government that we would continue to support this, we would make sure that we would support this. I am excited that in the next two days, you would be finding new entrepreneurs that can come into this enterprise bracket. We would also like to support in any way that we can promote these younger ones.

    “I am happy to see the CEO of Wecyclers, Mrs. Billkiss Abiola here; recycling is something that is dear to my heart, even before becoming Governor, I visited the place and I can tell you that I was excited about the skill set brought to bear. We’ve supported a whole lot of entrepreneurs also and we would continue to do that,” the Governor said.

    Earlier, in her remarks, Executive Director, MIT, Mrs. Georgina Flatter said the team was in Lagos to liaise with entrepreneurs in the State and build sustainable partnerships going forward.

    She said the MIT team had spent the last few days touring eco systems and visiting entrepreneurs and ventures across Lagos, describing the experience so far as most inspiring.

    “We visited Billlkiss’s recycling site Wednesday and saw the amazing job that she’s been doing in the city and how she is bringing huge value to the eco system and this is why we are here, to understand your entrepreneurs and see how we can build partnerships and strengthen this partnership with your entrepreneurs through seeing the great work that people are doing.

    “We can start to understand what role we can play to support them. I also like to thank you for the service that you are providing, we can see the good work that this government is doing to support the entrepreneurs,” Flatter said.

  • Ambode backs court Judgment authorizing state to control inland waterways

    Ambode backs court Judgment authorizing state to control inland waterways

    …Says era of uncontrolled sand dredging over in Lagos

     

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday expressed excitement at the judgment of Appeal Court in Lagos which set aside the judgment of the Federal High Court empowering the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to regulate transportation and sand dredging in the State, saying that the development would go a long way to aid the efforts of the State Government in abating flood in the State.

    The Appellate Court had, on July 18, 2017, allowed the Appeal of the State Government and set aside the judgment of the lower court.

    Speaking while swearing-in the newly democratically elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas in the State held at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Alausa, Governor Ambode described the judgment as a major success in the quest of the State Government to control its resources and enshrine the true spirit of Fiscal Federalism.

    He said with the judgment, the era of uncontrolled dredging is now over in the State as the State Government would now take firm control over its inland waterways and the adjoining lands including all sand dredging activities.

    “I am delighted to inform you that the State Government has recorded a major success in its quest to control its resources and enshrine the true spirit of Fiscal Federalism. Last week on 18th July 2017, the Court of Appeal Lagos Division allowed the Appeal of the Lagos State Government and set aside the Federal High Court Judgment which gave the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority to regulate transportation and sand dredging.

    “The era of uncontrolled dredging is over and this serves as a clear warning that the Lagos State Government will now take firm control over its inland waterways and the adjoining lands including all sand dredging activities. This will further aid our efforts in abating flood in the State,” Governor Ambode said.

    Addressing the new council chiefs at a well-attended event which witnessed attendance of key party leaders as well as families, friends and well-wishers, Governor Ambode said with the successful completion of Local Government election which held last Saturday, his administration has, once again, demonstrated total commitment to deepen democratic values and good governance at the grassroots.

    The Governor said his administration recognized the importance of government at the Local Government level as a vibrant and effective system at the third tier of government was critical towards ensuring government of inclusion where everybody has a voice, adding that it was gratifying that the chain of government linking the Wards, Councils and LGAs to the State Government had been completed.

    He particularly congratulated the leaders of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State and the new council bosses on their victory at the polls, as well as the Chairman and members of staff of the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) for delivering a free, fair and credible election

    “My greatest commendation goes to all Lagosians especially those who defied the rains on Saturday to perform their civic responsibility. The hallmark of democracy is the participation of the people through the free exercise of their franchise to elect the people they want to represent them. This is the true source of legitimate mandate to lead a people,” Governor Ambode said.

    To the newly-elected Chairmen, Governor Ambode said having crossed the hurdle of the election, they must now settle down for real governance especially by working hard and fulfilling all electoral promises.

    He said: “At the State level, so much is being done to harness the potentials of our State and make it a preferred destination for local/foreign investors and tourists. We are implementing policies and programmes that will promote socio-economic activities and maximise the economic potentials of the three Senatorial zones of the State. This is in line with our commitment to ensure inclusive growth and create opportunities for wealth and job creation.

    “As you (council chiefs) settle down to the business of governance, you must bear in mind that the participation of the people in governance does not end with elections. The people must be carried along and given the opportunity to have a say in policy making process and implementation. It is from you that we get the feedback of the people. You must be accountable and transparent in the management of the resources put in your care for the benefit of the people.”

    Besides, Governor Ambode warned the council chiefs against all forms of discrimination, saying that the dividends of good governance must not only be fairly distributed to all people without prejudice to political affiliation, gender, religious beliefs or ethnic background, but also the cosmopolitan nature of the State must be factored into all decisions.

    Earlier in his welcome address, Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tunji Bello said the development confirms that democratic institution is strong and consolidating in the State, just as he urged the new council chiefs to build vigorously on the landmark achievements of Governor Ambode by ensuring that laudable developmental projects are also felt at the grassroots.

    Responding on behalf of the new Chairmen and Vice Chairmen, Chairman of Lagos Island East Local Government, Hon Kamal Bashua thanked Governor Ambode and the people of the State as well as the leadership of APC for the opportunity to serve, assuring that they would not disappoint the people but hit the ground running.

     

  • 3000mw power generation plan on course – Ambode

    3000mw power generation plan on course – Ambode

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday said his administration has already embarked on reform aimed at generating 3000MW of power within the next few years, adding that the initiative, which is on course, would go a long way in scaling up the State’s economy and make life more comfortable for the people.

    Speaking in Ikeja while declaring open the 7th Annual Public Lecture of the Lagos State Public Service Chapter (LSPSC) of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) with the theme “Lagos@50: Unlocking Its Economic Potentials For Sustainable Development,” Governor Ambode said that adequate power supply was a key factor needed to unlock the economic potentials of the State, saying that the sector remained strategic in reducing the cost of doing business and improving the living condition of Lagosians.

    He described the theme of the lecture as apt and in sync with the resolve of his administration to identify, explore and exploit the untapped potentials of the Lagos economy, which according to him, was why the State Government was adopting the approach of strategic, innovative and long term thinking and planning.

    The Governor added that with high population growth of 3.2 per cent annually, high immigration rate estimated to be one of the highest in the world and rapid urbanization, the State Government was not oblivious of the fact that the most effective and efficient way to unlock the economic potentials of Lagos is to open up the economy for private enterprise to thrive, which was why his administration had been delivering first class infrastructure and putting in place right policies to ensure business-friendly environment.

    Besides, Governor Ambode attributed the massive projects ongoing at the eastern and western axis of the State as well as Lagos Marina and Onikan to the resolve of his administration to unlock the tourism, entertainment and arts potentials of the State which he said were also critical.

    According to the Governor, “Our smart city initiative will help to ensure that the State is cleaner, safer, productive and then more resilient thereby making the State more attractive for Foreign Direct Investment.

    “Upon assumption of office in 2015, our administration created the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment and subsequently launched the N25bilion Employment Trust Fund and as at today, over 3000 entrepreneurs have benefited from the fund through access to low cost credit for their business.

    “Lagos State is also actively involved in the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN), a body comprising all the South-Western States. Though DAWN and other platforms, we are working on a collaborative development plan, a regional economic integration which will help to minimize some of our current challenges such as high immigration, infrastructure deficit and traffic congestion,” he said.

    Aside the regional collaboration, Governor Ambode said his administration has also entered into several partnerships locally and internationally, while the Lake Rice project which had been very successful is being taken to a new level with establishment of value chain for agricultural commodities like rice, groundnut, pepper, among others.

    “Our government is committed to diversifying the Lagos economy and open it up to the world. Through the office of Transformation and Innovation, we are continually improving on the ease of doing business in the State. Consequently, we are continually open to welcoming and partnering with international investors and development partners towards achieving sustainable economic and social development,” he said.

    While stating that government alone could not implement all the reforms, Governor Ambode urged accountants in the State public service to see themselves as key stakeholders in bringing about the desired outcome.

    He particularly charged them to be the best in their endeavors and help to strengthen the financial base of the State to facilitate execution of infrastructural projects vital to economic growth and development.

    Earlier, ICAN President, Mallam Isma’ila Zakari described Lagos State as a typical example of sustainable development in Nigeria, adding that it was important for other States in the country to learn from the experience of the State and apply same to address their challenges.

    Zakari, who was represented by Dr Innocent Okwuosa, said: “Lagos is a shining example in Nigeria. If every other State in Nigeria follows what Lagos is doing, perhaps all the issues confronting us as a nation would have been resolved. Lagos has gotten human capital and good leadership exemplified by the accountant at the helm of affairs in the State.

    “Sustainable development is inclusive development and that is what Lagos is doing,” Zakari said while assuring that the deliberations at the lecture would be properly documented and put into consideration by the Council.

    In his welcome address, LSPSC Chairman, Mr Hakeem Alade Tairu said the lecture was significant coming at a time when the State is witnessing tremendous development in all sections and sectors of its economy under the leadership of a former distinguished member of the chapter in person of Governor Ambode, who he described as a man with a Midas touch, a seasoned technocrat, exceptional leader and a seasoned accountant with a positive difference.

  • Security: Lagos tasks traditional rulers to live above board

    Security: Lagos tasks traditional rulers to live above board

    Lagos State Government has asked Obas, Baales and Chiefs across the State to continue to live above board in the maintenance of peace and security within their respective domains by exhibiting exemplary conduct.

    Addressing all the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs at an interactive session on security issues in Lagos State, the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Mr. Muslim Folami stated that the recent development in the State where a traditional ruler was apprehended for conniving with kidnappers to cause unrest was totally unacceptable.

    He noted that as the custodians of traditions, culture and values, the government expect traditional rulers to display a high level of decorum.

    In response, the Oba of Lagos and Permanent Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, His Royal Majesty, Oba Riliwanu Aremu Akiolu I, on behalf of the Obas and other Traditional Rulers pledged the unalloyed loyalty of the traditional rulers to the administration of Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode in maintaining peace across the length and breadth of the State.

    Citing the instance of the arranged kidnap by the Baale Shangisha, Akiolu said that all residents of the State are better aware that there is no hiding place for any criminally-minded individual regardless of how highly-placed the person might be.

    He urged residents of the State to be more vigilant about happenings within their neighbourhood, stressing that the identity of all evil-minded persons terrorizing the peace of the State will continue to be exposed.

    “As I always say, there exist the likes of the Baale of Shangisha among our traditional rulers and it is my prayer that God will continue to expose such individuals. The act of evil connivance is ungodly; all fraudulent practices in the sales of land, landed properties and the like in any Lagos community will in no distant time meet their waterloo”, Akiolu stated.

    The traditional ruler maintained that the task of policing, information gathering should henceforth be seen as a collective responsibility because the police are not magicians and they depend on the intelligence of all residents.

    He, however, commended the Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for his unwavering investment in the police and other security outfits in the State, stressing that the investment has greatly added to the relative peace being enjoyed across the State.

    He pleaded with Lagosians to always allow security officers perform their constitutional responsibilities of safeguarding and maintaining law and order most especially as the Local Government election will be holding on Saturday.

    Also speaking at the event, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi said the secret of evil-master minders who have been fomenting trouble in the ancient town of Ikorodu are now being exposed as a result of the concerted efforts of all security agencies with the assistance of the traditional rulers.

    He categorically stated that intelligence gathering so far did not indict any indigene of Ikorodu as a perpetrator of the insecurity around the town.

    Oba Shotobi disclosed that he is always mindful of the fact that any dent on Ikorodu town affects his personality, the whole council of Obas and Chiefs and ultimately portends great setback for the State government, hence the need for him to be seen doing the needful in restoring security confidence to the town.

    The Akran of Badagry, De Aholu Menu-Toyi I, urged the electorate to desist from violent acts ahead of the local government chairmanship elections, warning that the police are fully prepared for the election and would not hesitate to arrest anyone seen to disrupt peaceful conduct of the polls.

     

  • Aregbesola lauds Ambode’s performance in office

    Aregbesola lauds Ambode’s performance in office

    Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola on Thursday described his counterpart in Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode as the Governor General of Nigeria, saying that the position of Lagos as the economic nerve centre of the country and the brilliant performance of the Governor in office could not be downplayed in any form.

    Speaking while receiving Governor Ambode on a courtesy visit at Government House in Oke-Fia Osogbo, Aregbesola said considering the fact that the economy of Lagos was about the summation of economies of thirty States in Nigeria, one would be denying the obvious not to recognize the vantage position of the State and its Governor in the scheme of affairs in the country.

    “I recognize the Governor of Lagos State who by my own assessment is the Governor General of Nigeria. I say so for a very good reason. It is not a question of age of the occupant of that office or his tenure. It is simply an attestation to the fact that the economy of Lagos is about the summation of the economies of thirty States in Nigeria. One will be deceiving himself not to recognize that fact,” Aregbesola said.

    While recalling similar visit to former Governor of Osun State, Chief Bisi Akande by the then Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Aregbesola described Governor Ambode’s visit as historic and apt coming at a time when the State lost some illustrious indigenes and in the wake of democratic assault which he recently suffered, saying that he had been greatly encouraged, motivated and given calm disposition by the visit.

    He particularly commended Governor Ambode for his clear expression of commitment to economic integration and development of south west, saying that beyond rhetorics, concrete steps must now been taken to actualize the vision in the overall interest and benefit of the people.

    He said it would be disastrous for any State in the region to assume it can make any meaningful progress without integration, adding that it is in the interest of all the six states in the region to work together.

    “The only state with the clout and the muzzle to shun collaboration and integration superficially is Lagos and that too will be to its eternal regret because if the adjoining states to Lagos are underdeveloped, the consequence on Lagos is tragic. If it requires trekking from any part of the region to get to Lagos, people will do it and Lagos will have a huge number of internally displaced people who you cannot send away because they speak the same language with you anyway.

    “Even going national, there is no tribe or section of the country that is not properly represented in Lagos. So, if people come from as far North as Biu to Lagos, what more of Ikole, Ipetumodu and Arigidi. People will move and Lagos will have unending challenge of at least catering for their municipal needs. So, it is in the interest of Lagos as it is in the interest of other states to pursue with vigor this clamor for effective integration of not only our economy, but our political, social, commercial and educational relationship, among others,” Aregbesola said.

    He added that it was only through integration that the region could take maximum advantage of its comparative competitiveness.

    Earlier, Governor Ambode said the visit was basically to show solidarity and reflect and expand the brotherhood that the south west region was striving to achieve especially by ensuring the success of the integration of the Yoruba nation.

    “I am here to say that I want to further the economic partnership that should exist between the State of Osun and Lagos State. Yes, we have Lake Rice, yes we have a partnership with Kebbi State but the economic integration and food security of the south west remains in the vineyard of Osun and other states that surround Lagos.

    “Obviously, we have the consumer strength of the market, we have the commerce but we must integrate backward towards the south west and ensure that the economic prowess of the regional integration that we set out to achieve is put in place for generations yet unborn.

    “We have a historic duty and which Governor Aregbesola has continued to champion that we must stand up for the regional integration of the south west because therein lies the future prosperity of the Yoruba nation. I commit myself to that vision. I also commit myself to the vision of the south west governors to the effect that time has come for us to stand up as leaders for our people,” Governor Ambode said.

    Besides, Governor Ambode commended Aregbesola for his unwavering commitment and loyalty to progressive ideology of Asiwaju Tinubu, as well as remaining a symbol of steadfastness in the midst of storms.