Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has flagged off the construction of a 4.2-kilometre Onosa/Onosa Y Junction–Fokunmade/Onosa Road in Ibeju-Lekki Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
Represented by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Sanwo-Olu said the road would run from Onosa Road through Onosa Y Junction to Fokunmade and connect to Onosa Road 4 leading to the Expressway.
He said the project, to be completed within 18 months, would feature modern infrastructure that ensures safety, efficient drainage, and illumination.
“The Onosa Road project is designed to deliver lasting infrastructural value to the people of Ibeju-Lekki,” he said.
According to him, the road will have a 7.3-metre-wide carriageway, a covered drainage system measuring 750 by 750 millimetres, and solar-powered streetlights to enhance durability and security.
Agbaje noted that the project is part of ongoing efforts to open up rural communities and improve connectivity across Lagos. He urged residents to cooperate with the government and contractors to ensure smooth execution, stressing that development thrives where there is unity and communal support.
He also appealed to residents to continue supporting the ruling party, saying such projects represent dividends of democracy and the benefits of political continuity.
The Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LCDA, Hon. Sesan Olowa, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for the state’s continued infrastructural drive, revealing that about ten major road projects are currently ongoing within the council area.
“The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Sanwo-Olu, has remained consistent in bringing development closer to the people. This 4.2km Onosa Road will ease movement, improve access, and attract more economic opportunities to our communities,” he said.
Olowa further noted that the project is another proof of the administration’s commitment to equitable development, adding that it would significantly enhance the area’s socio-economic landscape.
The governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Bank of Industry (BoI) to strengthen workplace safety practices among Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating in Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu also inaugurated the Safety First Campaign and unveiled the first-ever Occupational Safety Cadre in the Lagos State public service.
Speaking yesterday at the third Lagos State Occupational Safety and Health Conference held in the state, with the theme, “Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) as a catalyst for nation Building,” Sanwo-Olu, reiterated his administration’s commitment to promoting workplace safety, public health and environmental protection.
Sanwo-Olu described the new occupational safety cadre as a groundbreaking initiative and the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, noting that it will institutionalise safety as a professional discipline within the Lagos State civil service.
He said: “For the first time, safety will not just be treated as a hard-core responsibility but as a recognized career path, complete with its own structure, training, and expertise.”
These steps will ensure that generations of Lagosians benefit from a professional core dedicated solely to occupational safety and health.”
The governor also highlighted the role of technology in driving modern safety standards, just as he announced the deployment of drones for surveillance, body cameras and thermal detection tools to enhance monitoring, enforcement, and emergency response.
In his keynote address titled, “Occupational Safety and Health as the Catalyst of Sustainable Nation Building,” the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of BOI, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, said there is overwhelming evidence that inadequate workplace safety continues to pose significant risks to workers globally.
He cited studies that showed between 10 to 30 per cent of industry workers suffer injuries, occupational diseases and health hazards on a yearly basis, which include physical accidents, exposure to harmful chemicals, long term respiratory complications amongst other issues.
According to him, the consequences of work-related accidents and illnesses are profound and result in lost workdays, reduced productivity, and rising healthcare costs.
He said while various African countries are ensuring safer work environment, Nigeria must position itself as a regional leader in embedding Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) -driven safety practices across all sectors, from high-risk industries to MSMEs.
“By integrating global standards, technology, and accountability, we can build workplaces that are safe, competitive, and resilient,” he said.
Director-General, Lagos State Safety Commission (LSSC), Lanre Mojola said the agency realised enforcement action is reducing as compliance is increasing. He assured that the agency will continue to increase inspection across the state as enforcement is returned.
Mojola also stated that the agency will ensure that Vertical Transportation Equipment are fully enforced to the letter as Lagos continues to move on. He reiterated that over 20,000 facilities already registered have GPIS with pictorial evidence.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Special Duties and lnter-governmental Relations, Olugbenga Oyerinde, stressed that occupational and general public safety remains a top priority to the State Government, noting, “every Lagosian, deserves to live, work, and move freely without any fear.”
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will today unveil a newly completed 420 home units at Ajara, Badagry.
The opening of the new Lagos State Housing Estate Ajara phase 1 at Badagry, will further increase the stock of model housing units and cater for accomodation needs of over 2000 individuals.
Commissioner for Housing Moruf Akinderu-Fatai during a media chats with reporters stated that the estate consists of 420 home apartments of one, two and three bedrooms.
Akinderu-Fatai said the aim is to provide affordable and quality housing in line with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s campaign promise to complete all ongoing housing projects in the state.
He expressed excitement about the project’s completion, citing its potential impact on the community’s economy.
The commissioner thanked prospective subscribers for their patience and trust in the administration.
He also advised interested subscribers who have intention to apply to visit the Estate department of the Ministry at Block 3, the Secretariat, Alausa and refrain from dealing with swindlers as the ministry does not engage agents in the sale of any of its housing units.
Residents in Ikorodu, Lagos State, have lauded Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for inaugurating a water supply scheme in their neighborhoods, each with a generator to ensure uninterrupted water distribution.
The project, handed over on October 4, was executed through Office of Rural Development under supervision of Dr. Nurudeen Agbaje, special adviser to the governor on Rural Development. Agbaje said the scheme is part of the administration’s drive to extend essential amenities to rural and semi-urban communities that lack access to potable water.
In Lugbusi, beneficiaries included Joy Estate, Peace Estate, and Unique Estate.
The scheme and generator were received on behalf of residents by Giwa Idris, vice chair of CDA Lugbusi; Abe Johnbull, chair of Joy Estate; and Babatunde Awolesi, chair of Peace CDA.
Johnbull, speaking for the community, thanked Sanwo-Olu for delivering “the real dividends of democracy,” adding the project would ease the burden of water scarcity.
Adewale Daniel, general secretary; Elder P.O. Adetola, both of Peace CDA; and Segun Adegbuyi, spokesman of Joy Estate, said the intervention is timely and essential.
Maya Olorijo Estate Phase 2 also benefited. The project was received by the CDA; Victor Ologhobo, chair; Ogunjobi Olaoluwa, secretary; Ismail Sodiq; Financial secretary; Murisiku Sule; Fasheun Kayode; and Felix Aberefa, and contractor, Olukorede Koleoso.
Residents hailed the water facility and generator, promising it will serve all households.
At Victory Estate, Parafa, the scheme was welcomed by the CDA, led by the Chair, Oyetola Olakunle; Vice Chair, Akorede Aliu; Social Secretary, Imoudumhe Ododo; General Secretary, Adawole Afolake; Spokesman, Apena Ahmed; and Adeoye Isaac.
They pledged to maintain the facility.
Ojokoro Togejoye CDA also benefited. The project was received by the Chair, Moses Obasanya; Treasurer, Mudashiru Oladepo; Vice Chair, Adebola Quadri, Financial Secretary, Adefowope Mudashiru, and Lamina Robiat, Ayo-Adewole Akinbode, Ahmed Odehinde (menbers).
Agbaje reiterated that the initiative would be replicated in more rural communities to bridge infrastructural gaps.
He noted water is basic and assured residents of support.
The wait is finally over as the historic E1 Lagos GP officially commenced on Friday with the opening ceremony held at the Lagos Motor Boat Club, Ikoyi as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu flagged off the race weekend.
The iconic race with a blend of speed, culture and mind-blowing speed is coming to the heart of Africa, and Lagos showcasing its waterways to drive sports tourism and sustainable development.
The E1 Lagos GP – the UIM World Championship, an all-electric international offshore powerboat racing series highlights Lagos blue economy potentials and the state commitment to host major sporting events.
Speaking at the well-attended opening ceremony, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Alejandro Agag said bringing E1 to Africa represents a pivotal moment in the mission to grow electric racing on the continent, making the event truly global.
African football legend Didier Drogba, co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa along with Gabrielle Lemaire, is representing Africa in the global to championship. The former Chelsea star expressed excitement with Africa’s ever race in Nigeia.
Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the impact of E1 Lagos GP while assuring on the state’s commitment to host future event, making race a permanent event on the global E1 calendar.
The Governor commended the organizers for bringing the race to Lagos and lead partner First Bank for making the dream a reality. He further assured on the state resolve to compete with big cities across the world though her resilient, competitiveness and home to global businesses.
The RaceBirds took to the Lagos Lagoon to round off the opening ceremony ahead of the race which starts with the qualifying rounds on Saturday while the main race will hold on Sunday.
The E1 Lagos GP set up up a thrilling penultimate round in the battle to crown the 2025 ‘Champions of the Water’ ahead of the season finale in Miami.
Women have been urged to increase their participation in governance and other sectors of the economy.
Speakers, who included the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande; wife of the Lagos State governor, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; Lagos State University (LASU), Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello and board guru, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, made the call at the seventh Women in Governance Conference organised by the Association of Corporate Governance Professionals of Nigeria (ACGPN).
The event themed ‘’Women in Leadership: Navigating challenges and seizing opportunities’’ was held in Ikoyi, Lagos.
Olawande, who was represented, said though women empowerment is vital to national development, gender equality remained a societal issue. The minister who advised women to go out and shine, however, urged men to support women to achieve their goals.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu called for full representation of women in the future. With more empowerment, doors would open for them, said the governor’s wife, who was represented by the wife of the Commissioner for Transportation/member, Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Mrs Oyinkan Oshiyemi.
Olatunji-Bello, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration), Prof Adenike Omotunde Moyo, charged women to be courageous and go for their goals and that nothing should deter them. She said when they meet barriers and glass walls, they should be hopeful as they were meant to be scaled or broken and that nothing could hold a willing mind back. Citing herself, the VC said it had not been a bed of roses as many might have erroneously thought, but that she, too, had mountains to surmount to get to her exalted position with good results. Hard work, she noted, as the mother of success.
She noted that with good leadership by women, mountains could be moved. “We are the leaders the world needs,’’ she added.
Ohuabunwa, who is the association’s President/Chairman-in-Council, said gone were the days when the number of women in the boards or heads of universities could be counted on the finger tips, adding that women were on the rise in government, banks, among others.
He said he had encountered over 20 institutions of high learning led by women and, also, female heads of service and permanent secretaries in civil service. ‘’The teaching and nursing professions are not dominated by female folks, and even professions that were seen as largely masculine are today led by women and that the president of the National Centre for Human Rights is a woman. ‘’Thus, it is clear that our women have made tremendous progress, though we still have a long way to go,’’ Ohuabunwa said
Despite the challenges, Ohuabunwa said, women should not be deterred from climbing higher.
He however decried the situation where some women were found guilty of malfeasance, saying such should be discouraged by them. Rather, he added, women should be role models in society.
He challenged women on accountability, fairness, and transparency in public and private. He congratulated the new fellows of the association.
A lawyer, Mrs Funmi Roberts, sought mentoring for younger women, especially lawyers. She counselled the young generation on patience, good conduct and training, saying the future belongs to those with the right skills. Mrs Funmi noted that the road to the top is rough and tough but that with patience, the young ones would achieve success. She pleaded with the old generation to put in place for grooming, adding that after all, they are the future leaders who should be trained to get it right.
Earlier, while welcoming participants to the ceremony, the WIG Conference Committee Chairman, Mrs Olufade Olufunke, said it was their objective to continue to create pathways where women could thrive and leave marks in leadership.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to the speakers, among others.
Also at the event were the association’s National Treasurer, Princess Elemanya Ebila; National Administrator, Dr. Femi Mosaku-Johnson; ACGPN council member, Mr Filius Osunbor; General Manager, Lagos State Office For Disability Affairs, Mrs Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal;Zonal Director, NTA Network Centre, Lagos, Dr. Evelyn Nwosu; among others.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called for stronger collaboration among state emergency management agencies (SEMAs), to enhance Nigeria’s preparedness and response to disasters.
He made the call at the maiden national State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) conference held in Ikeja, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said the summit’s theme: ‘Strengthening Sub-National Emergency Management for a Resilient Nigeria’, underscored the need for coordinated strategies to confront floods, epidemics, fires, industrial accidents and the growing threat of climate change.
He said resilience at the national level depended on how prepared state-level agencies were to manage emergencies.
Highlighting Lagos’ own interventions, the governor said his administration had upgraded Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) with new rescue equipment, digital monitoring tools, improved toll-free emergency lines and a mobile app with GPS tracking.
He also listed the establishment of a Simulation Centre for scenario-based training, expansion of Lagos Response Unit (LRU), with modern ambulances and fire trucks synchronisation of hospital management services with emergency response to monitor availability of bed spaces and closest facility to offer needed care to victims, as well as partnerships with international agencies and grassroots volunteer networks.
Sanwo-Olu recalled LASEMA’s swift response during last year’s flash floods and a recent building collapse in Mushin, saying the outcomes demonstrated the value of preparedness, coordination and technology-driven response.
“Emergencies require more than just a reaction; they call for preparedness. The true strength of our nation lies in our shared readiness and unity when facing challenges,” he said.
Director-General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Zubaida Umar, hailed Lagos for its pioneering efforts in deploying technology, decentralising response units and building resilient communities.
She noted that emergency management must move from being reactive to predictive, preventive and participatory.
Umar said NEMA would continue to strengthen early warning systems, improve data management and expand grassroots capacity building in collaboration with state agencies, private sector partners and communities.
She stressed the need for effective policy creation, urging states to identify their peculiarities and take steps to address them, rather than seeing SEMA as a palliative agency.
Lagos State Commissioner for Special Duties, Olugbenga Oyerinde, noted it was the first time leaders of SEMAs of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FTC), federal institutions, private sector leaders, international partners and frontline responders would gather under one roof to strengthen Nigeria’s resilience against emergencies and disasters.
He said the conference marked a historic shift from a culture of reaction to a new era of readiness, recovery and resilience.
“When sub-national agencies are strong, Nigeria is strong. The recent loss of lives to avoidable disasters underscores the urgency of convening experts to identify solutions and prevent future tragedies.
“Over the next two days, participants will engage in keynote sessions, panel discussions, exhibitions and a large-scale simulation exercise to test coordination in real time.
“Lagos State Government commends the private sector, civil society and international partners for their support. Disaster management is a collective responsibility that requires inclusiveness and relentless commitment to protect lives and build safer communities,” he added.
Permanent Secretary, LASEMA, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, during an interview with reporters, said the agency had concluded plans for the unveiling of its institute tomorrow, adding that the first intakes would commence training by December.
…‘Emergency Management Institute kicks off Saturday’
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for stronger collaboration among state emergency management agencies (SEMAs) to enhance Nigeria’s preparedness and response to disasters.
He made the call at the maiden National State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) Conference held at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheralton Hotel, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said the summit’s theme, “Strengthening Sub-National Emergency Management for a Resilient Nigeria,” underscored the need for coordinated strategies to confront floods, epidemics, fires, industrial accidents, and the growing threat of climate change.
He stressed that resilience at the national level depends largely on how prepared state-level agencies are to manage emergencies.
Highlighting Lagos’ own interventions, the governor said his administration has significantly upgraded the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) with new rescue equipment, digital monitoring tools, improved toll-free emergency lines, and a mobile app with GPS tracking.
He also listed the establishment of a Simulation Centre for scenario-based training, the expansion of the Lagos Response Unit (LRU), with modern ambulances and fire trucks, synchronization of hospital management services with emergency response to monitor availability of bed spaces and the closest facility to offer needed care to victims, as well as partnerships with international agencies and grassroots volunteer networks.
Sanwo-Olu recalled LASEMA’s swift response during last year’s flash floods and a recent building collapse in Mushin, saying the outcomes demonstrated the value of preparedness, coordination, and technology-driven response.
“Emergencies require more than just a reaction; they call for preparedness. The true strength of our nation lies in our shared readiness and unity when facing challenges,” he said.
In her remark, the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Zubaida Umar, commended Lagos for its pioneering efforts in deploying technology, decentralising response units, and building resilient communities. She noted that emergency management must move from being reactive to predictive, preventive, and participatory.
Umar said NEMA would continue to strengthen early warning systems, improve data management, and expand grassroots capacity building in collaboration with state agencies, private sector partners, and communities.
She emphasised the need for effective policy creation, urging states to identify their peculiarities and take steps to address them rather than seeing SEMA as a palliative agency.
In his welcome address, the Lagos State Commissioner for Special Duties, Olugbenga Oyerinde, noted it was the first time leaders of all the SEMAs of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), federal institutions, private sector leaders, international partners, and frontline responders would gather under one roof to strengthen Nigeria’s resilience against emergencies and disasters.
He said the conference marked a historic shift from a culture of reaction to a new era of readiness, recovery, and resilience.
“When sub-national agencies are strong, Nigeria is strong. The recent loss of lives to avoidable disasters underscores the urgency of convening experts to identify solutions and prevent future tragedies.
“Over the next two days, participants will engage in keynote sessions, panel discussions, exhibitions, and a large-scale simulation exercise to test coordination in real time.
“The Lagos State Government commends the private sector, civil society, and international partners for their support, stressing that disaster management is a collective responsibility that requires inclusiveness and relentless commitment to protect lives and build safer communities,” he added.
Permanent Secretary, LASEMA, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, during an interview with journalists, said the agency has concluded plans for the unveiling of its institute on Saturday, adding that the first intakes would commence training by December.
On Saturday, we are going to have our Institute of Emergency Management, which will ensure they build capacity, not only in Lagos State, but in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We’ll be sharing capacity, information, and knowledge with international communities. We are collaborating with the International Organization of Migration (IOM).
“Moreover, we won’t need other people from other countries to come and teach us what we need to do. We will have that institute. We will build the capacity of all our responders.
“By Saturday, it will be launched, and I am sure they are going to have their first intake by December…” he said.
He commended the governor for taking ownership of emergency management and providing clear political will to ensure the safety of life and property.
“We are now looking holistically, we are building the resilience to all the local governments and encouraging all the states to do the same.
“We did a simulation here today to show the good people of Lagos State that we are capable, that we have the personnel and ability to manage any form of emergency or disaster in the state. We also did it to showcase the kind of sophisticated equipment that we have, like the light-duty and heavy equipment.
“We want our people to know that we have the biceps to work 24 hours, to manage the golden hour very well… We want our people to have confidence in us and develop the right positive attitude towards emergency management. Disaster is everyone’s business.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed sadness over the death of ARISE Television News anchor, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who was reportedly killed during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, the governor described the 29-year-old broadcaster, fondly known as “Sommie” by colleagues, as a rising star in the Nigerian media industry who carried out her duties with passion and professionalism.
“On behalf of the government and the people of Lagos State, we commiserate with ARISE News over the death of one of its news anchors, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, who was reportedly killed during an armed robbery attack in her house at Abuja,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He added, “Somtochukwu Maduagwu was a diligent and thoroughbred professional. Her death was a big shock considering the way she was killed, but we take solace in the Almighty God that she lived a fulfilled life and made positive impacts in the media industry.”
Sanwo-Olu also extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, friends, colleagues, and the management of ARISE News, especially its Chairman, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena.
“She will be greatly missed by her family, friends, associates and colleagues and the entire management and staff of ARISE News. I pray that God will comfort everyone that was close to her and grant her eternal rest. My prayers and thoughts are with her immediate family and the Chairman of ARISE TV, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena. May God grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” the governor said.
Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other stakeholders in the built environment, have called for mutual respect and cooperation between government enforcement officers and members of the public.
Speaking at the 2025 Stakeholders’ Engagement on Physical Planning, themed “Planning Permit: The Rebirth”, organized by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA) on Friday, the Governor stressed that harassment or assault of enforcement officials on duty is counterproductive and detrimental to the orderly growth of Lagos.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Sam Egube, maintained that physical planning officers are carrying out statutory responsibilities in line with approved regulations and therefore deserve due courtesy and cooperation.
He cautioned residents against verbal or physical attacks on officials and urged aggrieved members of the public to channel complaints through established government platforms. “Civility, dialogue, and adherence to due process are the hallmarks of a functional society that seeks sustainable development,” he said.
The governor further assured that the engagement reflected government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of both residents and officials in building a more resilient, well-planned Lagos.
In his goodwill message, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, emphasized that the administration is working tirelessly to bequeath a better Lagos to future generations.
He urged residents to uphold law and order, and treat government officials with the respect they deserve.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Olumide Oluyinka, explained that the forum was a follow-up to the 2024 Physical Planning Summit held at Eko Hotels and Suites, where stakeholders underscored the importance of public sensitization and engagement on physical planning.
Dr. Oluyinka assured that despite the frequent challenges faced by LASPPPA officials during enforcement, the government would not relent in ensuring that no physical development takes place in the state without necessary approvals.
Contributing, the Special Adviser to the Governor on eGIS and Planning Matters, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, represented by the Permanent Secretary for Urban Development, Gbolahan Oki, commended the General Manager of LASPPPA, Kehinde Osinaike, and his team for their efforts.
He however lamented the poor attitude of some property owners and professionals toward planning laws, calling for a change in behavior.
“Built professionals must discourage lawlessness by advising property owners appropriately and respecting their own professional boundaries,” he said, urging the public not to view demolitions of illegal structures emotionally, but rather as actions taken in the collective interest of society.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Oba of Lagos, the Bajulaiye of Lagos, Chief Ayodele Oyekan, appealed for public support of government’s planning regulations.
He stressed that harassment of officers is unjust, considering they act strictly in line with the law. He encouraged aggrieved property owners to use complaint mechanisms or seek redress through the Lagos State House of Assembly, instead of resorting to self-help.
“To live in Lagos, you must abide by the laws of the State,” he emphasized.
Also speaking, former Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Tpl. Toyin Ayinde, urged the government to streamline the operations of multiple agencies dealing with property owners by creating a one-stop centre for physical development matters.
He also highlighted political interference as a major bottleneck limiting LASPPPA’s efficiency and called for its minimization or outright removal.
