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Tag: Sanwo-Olu

Sanwo-Olu lauds city for economic transformation

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has hailed Alaro City for attracting more than $1 billion in economic development to Lagos.

On a visit to Alaro City, the governor toured residential and industrial investments that have created thousands of jobs.

Since its launch six years ago, Alaro City has attracted 500 residential investors and 80 companies, contributing to Lagos State’s industrialisation and controlled urban expansion.

“On behalf of Lagos State, I commend Alaro City. It is incredible to witness how vision, backed by strategy, is bringing a city like this to life,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu gave credit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State, created the Lekki Free Zone.

Read Also: Umahi sets November 2025 deadline for East-West road completion

The governor visited Ariel Foods, which produces ready-to-use therapeutic food for malnourished children; Starium, a detergent manufacturer owned by BUA Group; and TY Logistics Park, Nigeria’s first Grade A logistics facility. At Universal One, Lekki Free Zone’s leading housing developer, the governor visited recently completed two- and three-bedroom apartments.

“The Free Zone scheme in Nigeria has been instrumental to our success,” said Frank Mosier, Board Director of Rendeavour, which has developed Alaro City in partnership with Lagos State Government. “We commend the government’s investment in infrastructure like the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the Lekki-Epe Expressway, which link Alaro City to Lagos and the world.”

In just a few years, Alaro City has attracted local and international investors eager to capitalize on Nigeria’s Free Zone’s pro-business policies, Alaro City’s turnkey infrastructure and rapid growth. Alaro City’s international-grade roads, including the Alaro Boulevard, an eight-lane, 60-meter-wide road; a dedicated Independent Power Plant scalable to 120MW; fiber-optic connectivity; and mixed-use master plan make it easy to live and scale businesses in a convenient location.

While visiting Alaro City, Sanwo-Olu confirmed that the government is advancing plans for the Lekki International Airport across the expressway from Alaro City, as well as the Green Line Metro connecting Marina with Lekki Free Zone.

At Universal One, Lekki Free Zone’s leading housing developer, the governor visited recently completed two- and three-bedroom apartments.

Board Director of Rendeavour, which developed Alaro City in partnership with Lagos State Government, Frank Mosier said: “The Lekki Free Zone has been instrumental to our success.

“We commend the government’s investment in infrastructure like the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the Lekki-Epe Expressway, which link Alaro City to Lagos and the world.”

Sanwo-Olu confirmed that the government is advancing plans for the Lekki International Airport adjacent to Alaro City, as well as the Green Line Metro connecting Marina with Lekki Free Zone

March 13, 2025
IWD: Sanwo-Olu hails WAPA for engaging women

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has commended the state’s Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) for its numerous programmes and interventions over the years.

Governor Sanwo-Olu made the remark during the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.

He said the state government through the ministry has made significant investments in initiatives designed to empower and uplift women, and to foster self-sufficiency, leadership, and economic participation through the 19 tuition-free skills acquisition centres and the Women Development Centre.

The governor highlighted that these efforts aligned with global priorities, and recognise women as powerful catalysts for economic growth, innovation and societal transformation.

He reiterated its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where women will be adequately empowered to thrive in their respective fields.

Sanwo-Olu said that the state’s policies are dedicated to protecting women from gender-based violence, while also creating opportunities for them to assume leadership roles in governance, decision-making and entrepreneurial support.

According to him, these policies will enable female entrepreneurs to grow and sustain their businesses.

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs Bolaji Dada, said that it would continue to empower women and girls through its training initiatives.

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Mrs Dada noted that women who are the backbone of families, communities would continue to break barriers, challenge stereotypes and contribute immensely to national development.

She noted that in spite of these achievements, women still face persistent challenges such as gender inequality, economic disparity, gender-based violence, limited access to quality education, healthcare and leadership opportunities.

The commissioner called for urgent action and commitment to advance the rights and opportunities of women in Lagos and the country at large.

“As a ministry, we have been unwavering in our commitment to support women through empowerment programmes, training initiatives and advocacy.

“We have created platforms that equip women with the skills and resources they need to be financially independent and self-sufficient.

“The challenges women face whether at home, workplace, or in the society can take a significant toll on their mental and emotional well-being.

“We must move beyond promises to practical solutions that will empower women and uplift the vulnerable,” Mrs Dada stressed.

March 12, 2025
Sanwo-Olu’s wife inspects Ikosi-Isheri’s Health Centre
- By Chidinma Nnamdi
Wife of Lagos State Governor Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has inspected the newly completed Ikosi Ultra-Modern Primary Health Centre.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu praised the council boss for its efforts in promoting healthcare and wellbeing in the community.

She emphasised the importance of access to quality healthcare, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women and children.

Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Princess Samiat Bada, said the State-of-Art facility was designed to provide high-quality, accessible healthcare services to residents.

She said the 105-bed capacity health centre is one of the most expansive and well-equipped primary health facilities in Lagos State

The First Lady’s visit, according to Princess Bada, was to ensure it meets expectations, underscoring the Lagos State Government’s commitment to transforming primary healthcare under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

“This health centre is just the beginning. We have a vision for a healthier, more prosperous community, and we will continue to work towards achieving that vision,” she said.

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Princess Bada noted that the council is preparing to commission over 16 projects next month, including a new area office, a mini hall, a legislative building, a customary court, and several roads which the First Lady had graciously agreed to return to Ikosi-Isheri for their inauguration.

Princess Bada also commended the support of the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom she praised for advancing the cause of local governments’ autonomy.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu has been a pillar of support to all council chairmen in Lagos. His zero-tolerance approach for underperformance has motivated us to work tirelessly, and in Ikosi-Isheri, we leave no stone unturned. Every department is actively contributing to our progress,” she added

She added that the health centre’s project was out of a deep desire to bridge the gap in primary healthcare delivery.

“Our people deserve access to quality healthcare, and with this facility, we are taking bold strides towards achieving that goal. Like I have always said, my heart is where my community is.”
March 12, 2025
Sanwo-Olu launches programme to prevent building collapse

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has unveiled the Certified Accreditors’ Programme (CAP) to enhance building safety and compliance.

He said the initiative was driven by the tragic Ikoyi building collapse in 2021.

Speaking yesterday at the White Stone Event Centre, Ikeja, Governor Sanwo-Olu underscored the initiative’s critical role in preventing further incidents and fostering sustainable urban development.

“Today, we mark a pivotal moment in our journey toward a safer and more prosperous Lagos State,” he said.

The programme, developed by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), is a response to recommendations from a panel that investigated the Ikoyi building collapse. It seeks to bolster collaboration between the government and private-sector professionals in the built environment.

The governor said CAP would enhance socio-economic well-being, attract investments, improve urban aesthetics and establish a robust regulatory framework to boost developers’ confidence.

“By effectively reducing the risk of building collapse, we not only protect lives and property, but also foster a sense of security that is vital for any thriving community,” he said.

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The governor called on stakeholders, including property developers, homeowners, architects and engineers to uphold the highest standard of integrity and compliance.

He also urged the public to report substandard constructions and unauthorised developments.

“I charge all accredited firms to carry out their duties with integrity and professionalism. You are now integral players in our mission to make Lagos State a model for sustainable urban development in Africa,” he said.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on E-GIS and Planning Matters, Dr Olajide Babatunde, highlighted the rigorous selection process for CAP, revealing that 250 expressions of interest were received, with 150 companies shortlisted.

“As a matter of fact, we are still going to have super CAP agents who will be checking what we are doing so that we know we are not alone,” he said.

He outlined two groups under CAP: individual professionals, comprising a minimum of five qualified experts in relevant fields, and corporate firms, consisting of at least two registered construction and built industry companies.

March 11, 2025
Sanwo-Olu launches programme to prevent building collapses

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has unveiled the Certified Accreditors’ Programme (CAP) to enhance building safety and compliance.

He said this initiative was driven by the tragic Ikoyi building collapse in 2021.

Speaking yesterday at the White Stone Event Centre, Ikeja, Mr Sanwo-Olu underscored the initiative’s critical role in preventing further incidents and fostering sustainable urban development.

“Today, we mark a pivotal moment in our journey toward a safer and more prosperous Lagos State,” he said.

The programme, developed by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), is a response to recommendations from a panel that investigated the Ikoyi collapse. It seeks to bolster collaboration between the government and private-sector professionals in the built environment.

According to the Governor, CAP will enhance socio-economic well-being, attract investments, improve urban aesthetics, and establish a robust regulatory framework to boost developers’ confidence.

“By effectively reducing the risk of building collapses, we not only protect lives and property but also foster a sense of security that is vital for any thriving community,” he said.

The Governor called on stakeholders, including property developers, homeowners, architects, and engineers, to uphold the highest standards of integrity and compliance.

He also urged the public to report substandard constructions and unauthorised developments.

Read Also: Mr. Macaroni sparks controversy over refusal to greet Sanwo-Olu

“I charge all accredited firms to carry out their duties with integrity and professionalism. You are now integral players in our mission to make Lagos State a model for sustainable urban development in Africa,” he said.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on E-GIS and Planning Matters, Dr Olajide Babatunde, highlighted the rigorous selection process for CAP, revealing that 250 expressions of interest were received, with 150 companies shortlisted.

“As a matter of fact, we are still going to have super CAP agents who will be checking what we are doing so that we know that we are not alone,” he said.

He outlined two groups under CAP: individual professionals, comprising a minimum of five qualified experts in relevant fields, and corporate firms, consisting of at least two registered construction and built industry companies.

The General Manager of LASBCA, Mr Gbolahan Oki, also described CAP as a transformative initiative that will enhance the agency’s efficiency and collaboration with private-sector professionals.

“I am therefore convinced that the launch of CAP today will help our agency to serve the people more effectively, while it will also enhance collaboration, innovation, and excellence in building practices,” he said.

He urged building owners and developers to cooperate with certified accreditors during inspections to prevent structural failures, warning that defaulters would face serious consequences.

March 10, 2025
Shettima, Sanwo-Olu reaffirm govt commitment to tackling climate change

Vice President Kashim Shettima and Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu have reiterated the commitment of the federal and state government to address climate change.

They spoke at a symposium entitled: “Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, Mangrove and Art” organised by the Climate Change Council of Nigeria Secretariat and Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.

Shettima and Sanwo-Olu were represented at the event which held Lekki Conservation Centre, Lekki, Lagos, by Special Adviser to the President on Climate Change and the National Economic Council, Rukayat El-Rufai and Secretary to Lagos State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin respectively,

The vice president noted that despite the geopolitical tensions, economic slowdowns, resurgence of climate skepticisms and setback in international climate commitments, Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering global collaboration to combat climate change.

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He stressed the nation’s resolve to tackle climate change by not only committing to the Paris Agreement, but pledging emissions reduction in 2030 with a vision to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060.

The vice president said: “We have pledged significant emissions reductions by 2030 and set a vision to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060. We enshrined that target into law with the Climate Change Act of 2021, establishing a National Council on Climate Change to integrate climate action into all facets of national planning. Climate change is now a cabinet-level priority in Nigeria.”

Shettima reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to climate-smart policies that balance development with sustainability.

He said: “We will continue to implement and strengthen policies that cut emissions, protect ecosystems, and build resilience.

“This means rigorously enforcing our climate legislation and integrating climate considerations into every major decision.”

Sanwo-Olu said though Lagos faces the dual challenge of urban expansion and environmental conservation, the current administration has implemented policies that balance development with sustainability, while prioritising green infrastructure and renewable energy.

Highlighting the need to protect mangroves, which he noted play a critical role in combating global warming by storing vast amounts of carbon dioxide, the governorsaid: “At the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit last year, I launched the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan (LCARP).

“This comprehensive framework integrates advanced analytics for risk assessment and stakeholder engagement – a critical step toward fortifying Lagos against climate vulnerabilities,” he added.

The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, noted that the state’s investment in renewable energy, waste-to-wealth initiatives, and sustainable urban planning are not just about mitigating climate risks, but securing the future of Lagos and ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of natural resources.

He said the state is ready to host COP 32 in 2027, stressing that if Azerbaijan could host COP in Baku, then nothing should stop Nigeria from doing it in Lagos.

Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Secretariat, Mr. Simon Stiell said investment in climate change adaptation, in water management, flood protection and initiatives like the Great Green Wall are vital for Nigeria’s economy to survive and thrive.

March 10, 2025
Sanwo-Olu pledges continuous support for women’s empowerment

Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to empowering women through deliberate policies and actions that ensure inclusivity and gender equality.

He made this assurance during the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos.

Speaking at the event with the theme: “Accelerate Action,” Sanwo-Olu emphasised the need to move beyond rhetoric and take decisive steps to address barriers hindering women’s progress.

He said: “We must address the inequalities and barriers that still hinder women. Here in Lagos State, we don’t just say it; we are actively implementing it through policies that empower women across all sectors,”

The Governor highlighted his administration’s investment in initiatives that promote self-sufficiency, leadership, and economic participation among women.

According to him, these efforts align with the THEMES+ agenda, aimed at fostering inclusiveness for the development of the state.

Reinforcing the importance of collective effort, Governor Sanwo-Olu called on men to actively support gender equality.

“True progress requires collective action, and I encourage all men to join the movement for gender equality. Sustainable change can only happen when men and women work together in harmony,” he said.

He assured Lagos women of continued government support, stressing that inclusivity and gender equality remain critical to the state’s sustainable development.

March 8, 2025
Don’t raise rent, Sanwo-Olu urges landlords at roads inauguration

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday appealed to landlords not to increase rent.

He said this at the inauguration of newly rehabilitated road-networks.

The roads include Agidi Road and Church Street in Agboyi/Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), and Demurin Road in Kosofe Local Government.

He said: “Please don’t increase your rents because Sanwo-Olu has just done connectivity. We are not doing it so you can put a burden on your tenants. The value of your houses may have gone up because of the dual carriageway, but please, take it that this is our responsibility to you.”

The governor said the road upgrade aimed to enhance traffic flow, improve business activities and eliminate flood.

Read Also: Sanwo-Olu praises FirstBank’s Iconic Tower, says project will redefine Lagos economy

He urged residents to safeguard public infrastructure and refrain from indiscriminate waste disposal.

Sanwo-Olu said the projects aligned with his administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, which focused on providing critical infrastructure to support economic activities.

The Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Olufemi Daramola, said the projects were designed to reduce travel time, boost economic growth and improve transport efficiency.

The Chairman of Agboyi/Ketu LCDA, Dele Osinowo, hailed the governor’s developmental strides and joined in the appeal to landlords to avoid arbitrary rent increases.

March 7, 2025
Sanwo-Olu begs landlords not to increase rent, inaugurates roads

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday appealed to landlords not to increase rent following the inauguration of a newly rehabilitated road network.

The roads include Agidi Road and Church Street in Agboyi/Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), and Demurin Road in Kosofe Local Government Area.

He said: “Please don’t increase your house rents because Sanwo-Olu has just done connectivity. We are not doing it so you can put a burden on your tenants. The value of your houses might have gone up with the dual carriageway, but please, take it that this is our responsibility to you,”

Read Also: Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu laud FirstBank on new headquarters takeoff

Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the road upgrades aim to enhance traffic flow, improve business activities, and eliminate flooding.

He urged residents to safeguard public infrastructure and refrain from indiscriminate waste disposal.

The governor also reaffirmed that the projects align with his administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, which focuses on providing critical infrastructure to support economic activities.

The Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Olufemi Daramola highlighted that the projects were designed to reduce travel time, boost local economic growth, and improve transport efficiency in the state.

Chairman of Agboyi/Ketu LCDA, Dele Osinowo commended the governor’s developmental strides and joined in the appeal to landlords to avoid arbitrary rent increases.

March 6, 2025
Sanwo-Olu praises FirstBank’s Iconic Tower, says project will redefine Lagos economy

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described the groundbreaking of FirstBank Plc’s new corporate headquarters at Eko Atlantic as a transformative project that will redefine the skyline of Victoria Island and enhance the economic landscape of Lagos State.

Speaking at the ceremony yesterday, where he joined Vice President Kashim Shettima, Sanwo-Olu emphasised the significance of the 40-story building, which is set to become the tallest in Nigeria and West Africa.

“This marks the beginning of a significant development that will not only enhance the architectural aesthetics of our city but also solidify Lagos as the commercial nerve center of Africa. We are proud to support initiatives that promote sustainable urban development and economic growth,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The governor commended FirstBank for its commitment to innovation and sustainability, stressing that the project aligns with the state’s vision for a modern, eco-friendly financial sector.

Vice President Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the event, performed the official groundbreaking, underscoring the federal government’s support for initiatives that drive economic progress.

The ceremony attracted an array of distinguished guests, including the governors of Ogun and Ondo states, Dapo Abiodun and Lucky Aiyedatiwa, respectively; President of Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Aliko Dangote; Chairman of FirstBank, Femi Otedola; businessman Gilbert Chagoury; and Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, among others.

Chairman of FirstHoldCo, Femi Otedola, reiterated that the project would set a new benchmark in Nigeria’s financial services sector.

Read Also: Sanwo-Olu unveils plan to strengthen Lagos as Africa’s financial hub

“Today’s gathering highlights the importance of collaboration and support from various sectors in bringing our ambitious plans for the new headquarters to life,” he said.

Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank Group, Olusegun Alebiosu, described the development as a milestone in the bank’s history, noting that it symbolizes the institution’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

“Our new head office is envisioned as a world-class structure that represents our dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and sustainability. We believe that this development will play a crucial role in fostering economic growth across Africa,” Alebiosu said.

Acting Group Head of Marketing & Corporate Communications at First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said that the skyscraper is designed as an environmentally sustainable edifice, integrating cutting-edge technology with energy-efficient architecture.

March 5, 2025