Tag: Sanwo-Olu

  • Sanwo-Olu, others for coconut festival

    Sanwo-Olu, others for coconut festival

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Commissioner for Agriculture, that of Arts, Culture and Tourism, as well as others will attend the Coconut Festival scheduled for December 28 at Badagry Heritage Museum, Marina-Badagry.

    President, African Coconut Heritage Initiative (AFRICOCO), organisers of the coconut heritage called ‘Agunkefest’, Prince Mesi Doheto, said this to reporters in Badagry.

    He said the Special Adviser on Tourism, Arts and Culture to Lagos State Governor, Mr Idris Aregbe, who is the chief host of the event, would also attend the festival tagged: ‘Reminiscence Edition: Reflecting on over a Decade of Celebrating African Coconut Heritage.’

    Doheto said the festival had received endorsement and support from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and Federal Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy.

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    He added: “Since its inception in 2009 in Badagry, Lagos State, Agunkefest has grown into a vibrant celebration of African coconut heritage, showcasing the rich cultural tradition, resilience, economic, health and environmental benefits and innovation of coconut value chain in Nigeria and across the continent.’’

    Comrade Peter Asu, the coordinator, Agunkefest 2024, said the ‘Reminiscence edition’ would be celebrated in a low-key manner because of the preparation for an even grander celebration next year.

    “The event will feature a coconut exhibition showcasing the history, cultural significance and traditional use of coconut in Africa, with a blend of innovative technology, crafts, cosmetics, drinks and food in the coconut value chain,’’ he added.

  • Sanwo-Olu, Lawal, others laud Keystone Bank’s strides at customers appreciation dinner

    Sanwo-Olu, Lawal, others laud Keystone Bank’s strides at customers appreciation dinner

    Keystone Bank Limited on Friday hosted an exclusive dinner to celebrate and appreciate its loyal customers for their unwavering support throughout the year 2024.

    The event, themed ‘Celebrating Partnership’ took place at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos.

    In her welcome remarks, chairman of Keystone Bank, Lady Ada Chukwudozie, expressed profound gratitude to the bank’s stakeholders and noted that the appreciation dinner is part of Keystone Bank’s broader strategy to engage with its customers on a personal level and reinforce its position as a trusted financial partner.

    Also speaking, the Managing Director/CEO of the bank, Mr. Hassan Imam appreciated the bank’s customers, stakeholders and the staff for their commitments and resilience in making Keystone Bank a leading financial institution in the country.

    “We have developed several products that have also been approved by the CBN. Monthly account opening has increased by over 150 per cent.

    “In addition, under our Corporate Social Responsibility, working with the state governments, we set up the Keystone Bank Educational Support Initiative for the educational sector.

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    In the first phase, we executed projects in 12 states: Lagos, Zamfara, Ekiti, Anambra, Katsina, Kaduna, Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Kano, Benue and Borno states.

    Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Zamfara State counterpart, Dr. Dauda Lawal expressed heartfelt gratitude to Keystone Bank for its meaningful CSR initiatives in their states. 

    Governor Lawal, in particular, lauded Keystone Bank as the first financial institution to visit Zamfara State and implement impactful CSR programmes. 

    Both Governors praised the visionary leadership of the bank’s CEO, Hassan Imam, for spearheading the remarkable transformation of the bank in such a short period. They further reaffirmed their commitment to continuing their partnership with the bank, recognizing its positive impact in their states and communities.

    Other dignitaries who attended the event included the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Dr. Samuel Ode; former Governor of Sokoto, Senator Aminu Tambuwal; former Deputy Governor of Kano, Dr. Nasir Yusuf Gawuna and Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi.

    Also, on the roll call are the Emir of Zazzau, Mal. Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli; Senator Iyiola Omisore; Senator Ben Murray Bruce; Senator Abdullahi Gumel; Polaris Bank CEO, Omokayode Lawal; former IGP MD Abubakar; Alh. Isiyaku Abdullahi, Executive Vice President (EVP), Downstream, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited; former NEMA DG, Alh. Sani Sidi; Former Minister of Interior of Nigeria, Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho; Chief (Barr.) Uju Ifejika; Chisco Transport CEO, Dr. Chidi Anyaegbu and many others.

  • Sanwo-Olu inaugurates bridge, four road network in Alimosho

    Sanwo-Olu inaugurates bridge, four road network in Alimosho

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has inaugurates the Babafemi Dada bridge and the Yinka Folarin, Jamiu Lawal, and Shalom Academy road networks in Alimosho Local Government Area.

    In a post on his X account, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the new infrastructure would enhance connectivity and promote sustainable development in the area.

    “This project exemplifies our administration’s dedication to advancing sustainable development through the provision of modern infrastructure,” he said.

    The governor explained that the project includes a newly constructed bridge and a network of four roads, all of which are equipped with solar-powered streetlights for enhanced safety and visibility.

    He also highlighted that the upgraded infrastructure is designed to provide safer and more accessible routes for residents of the Igando-Ayobo community and surrounding neighborhoods.

    Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the new road network and bridge will significantly improve the quality of life for residents by reducing commute times and transportation costs.

    “The bridge and road network will improve residents’ quality of life and promote productivity by cutting down on commute times and expenses,” he noted.

    The governor further underscored the broader economic objectives of the project, which aims to stimulate local economies and establish a foundation for sustainable growth.

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    “This infrastructure supports our broader vision of stimulating local economies and establishing a foundation for sustained growth,” he added.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu called for community involvement, urging residents to take ownership of the project and ensure its proper maintenance.

    “Everyone residing in Lagos is a partner in our state-building journey, and we value your feedback and cooperation on this and other projects.”

  • Sanwo-Olu gets award, champions resilient democracy

    Sanwo-Olu gets award, champions resilient democracy

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has been honoured with 2024 Democracy Award at the Seventh Africa Political Summit and Diamond Awards by Association of Political Consultants Africa (APCA).

    The event, which ended on Saturday at Zanzibar, brought together political consultants, leaders, and stakeholders to deliberate on  “Building Resilient Democracies: Elections, Transitions, and Governance.”

    Represented by Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, special adviser on Rural Development, Sanwo-Olu underscored the role of resilient democracies in fostering governance, safeguarding human rights, and promoting inclusivity.

    He showcased Lagos transformation under THEMES PLUS Agenda, noting advancements in innovation, infrastructure, healthcare, commerce, tourism, and security.

    Sanwo-Olu noted the state’s role in democratic governance, detailing key achievements: Innovation and Technology.Deployment of smart city solutions and expanded broadband access; Infrastructure Development. Completion of  Red and Blue Line rail systems and road network upgrades; Healthcare. Expansion of primary healthcare and implementation of Lagos Health Insurance Scheme (LHIS); Economic Growth: Establishment of Free Trade Zones and operationalisation of Lekki Deep Sea Port; Security. Utilisation of advanced surveillance technologies and community-focused safety initiatives.

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    Sanwo-Olu called for sustained investment in electoral technology, robust civic education, and greater political inclusivity to strengthen Africa’s democratic systems. He stressed importance of peaceful power transitions, comprehensive legal frameworks, and statesmanship in ensuring stability on the continent.

    APCA President, Kipngeno Duncan, presented the award to Sanwo-Olu, hailing his leadership and commitment to democratic governance.

    Temitope Lakisokun, Nigeria’s APCA Chairperson, praised Sanwo-Olu’s efforts in building institutional capacity and governance structures.

    The Democracy Award, previously conferred on President Bola Tinubu and Kenya’s President, William Ruto, recognises contributions to advancing democratic principles and governance in Africa.

    In his acceptance, Sanwo-Olu dedicated the award to Lagosians, attributing the state’s progress to their trust and collaboration.

    He urged African leaders to address economic inequality, political violence, authoritarianism, and others. Sanwo-Olu encouraged participants to transform innovative ideas into action to build stronger democracies on the continent.

    Agbaje, joined by Kehinde Gbajumo, permanent secretary, received the award.

    The summit, a platform for collaboration and innovation, reaffirmed commitment of African leaders and stakeholders to advancing resilient democratic systems in Africa.

  • Sanwo-Olu performs groundbreaking of Lagos Medipark

    Sanwo-Olu performs groundbreaking of Lagos Medipark

    • Says project will provide world-class clinical care, reduce medical tourism
    • Investors express commitment to completion of project

    The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday performed a groundbreaking of the Lagos Medipark Hospital, a game-changing healthcare hub in Africa.

    Lagos Medipark, which is a Private-Public Partnership (PPP) legacy project facilitated by Iwosan Investments Ltd and IASO Medipark Ltd in partnership with the Lagos State Government, is located on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi.

    The project is a 140-bed multi-specialist hospital with a state-of-the-art diagnostics center, residential accommodations for healthcare professionals, and training facilities to develop a skilled healthcare workforce, as well as commercial and retail spaces dedicated to medical services.

    The project, which is expected to be delivered in the next two years, would reduce medical tourism, provide world-class clinical care, and deliver solutions to critical health challenges.

    Speaking during the groundbreaking of the world-class specialist hospital in Ikoyi, Governor Sanwo-Olu, who praised investors, industry leaders and experts for taking a bold step to partner with the Lagos State Government to build the Medipark, said his administration will ensure that everything needed for the success of the project will be provided.

    He said: “This cutting-edge medical complex is envisioned to provide world-class clinical care, advance research and innovation, and deliver solutions to critical health challenges. It will be a beacon of hope—a place where medical excellence meets compassionate care.

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    “The Lagos Medipark aligns seamlessly with our administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda, particularly under the ‘Health and Environment’ pillar. It symbolises our determination to create a healthcare system that meets global standards and responds effectively to the diverse needs of our dynamic population.

    “As we break ground, I urge all stakeholders—private sector partners, healthcare professionals, and citizens alike—to join hands with us in bringing this vision to life by reaffirming our collective commitment to ensuring that the Lagos Medipark becomes a lasting legacy for generations to come.

    “My charge to all of us here today is to see that in two years’ time we are back here to commission Phase One of the Lagos Medipark. And that is what will also gladden me as your Governor. But more importantly is to see the Greater Lagos agenda that we are trying to birth. I want you all to work with us and see us as willing partners.”

    Governor Sanwo-Olu also disclosed that his administration is currently building the largest paediatric hospital in Sub-Saharan Africa, Massey Hospital in Lagos Island, and the largest mental health facility in Ketu-Ejirin, as well as various infrastructures in different parts of the State to meet the needs of the people of Lagos.

    In his address, the Chairman of Iwosan Investment Ltd, Mr. Fola Adeola, said the Lagos Medipark represents not just an investment in infrastructure but a bold step toward equitable access to quality healthcare.

    He said: “Lagos Medipark is a symbol of what is possible when visionary leadership and purposeful collaboration converge. This initiative reflects the essence of a Public-Private Partnership done right.

    “We are not just building a hospital; we are creating a community—a hub where innovation meets compassion, where health and well-being are prioritised, and where lives are transformed.

    “The vision is multifaceted: reducing medical tourism, equipping our healthcare workforce with world-class training, and creating an environment that nurtures both patients and professionals. These goals align seamlessly with our broader mission of not just healing but empowering—empowering our citizens to live healthier lives and our healthcare sector to lead on the continent and beyond.

    “To the people of Lagos and Nigeria at large: this is for you. It is a pledge to your health, your future, and the enduring promise of progress. Let us proceed with determination, knowing that what we start today will serve generations to come. Together, we are transforming healthcare, one groundbreaking initiative

  • New Lagos building code coming next year, says Sanwo-Olu

    New Lagos building code coming next year, says Sanwo-Olu

    Lagos State Government has expressed its readiness to get a new building code next year, to achieve the high-performance standard needed to make Lagos a sustainable and smart city.

    The government’s readiness was disclosed at the Lagos State Executive Council Retreat on the Domestication of the Lagos Building Code, organised by the Office of the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development, held in Ikeja GRA.

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    Speaking during the retreat, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stressed the need for more collaboration among ministries and agencies in the built sector to ensure the state developed in line with global best practices.

    He said the motive behind the Lagos building code was to have a building regulation that would make Lagos much more resilient.

    Special Adviser to the Governor on eGIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, said the Lagos building code was to complement the existing regulatory framework and provide a comprehensive solution to the challenges of land use, physical development and urban planning.

  • Sanwo-Olu’s wife leads child abuse war

    Sanwo-Olu’s wife leads child abuse war

    To mark end of 14 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Lagos State governor’s wife, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has engaged Wesley School for the Hearing Impaired, Surulere, on importance of safeguarding children against abuse.

    Mrs. Sanwo-Olu underscored the inclusive governance philosophy of the administration, which prioritises protection of vulnerable children, including those with disabilities.

    The governor’s wife praised the staff and management of Wesley School for their dedication to providing quality education for children with hearing impairment, and encouraged them to be vigilant in identifying and addressing signs of abuse.

    She stressed importance of being observant of children’s sexual behaviour and reactions, noting these as indicators of abuse.

     “Parents and teachers must develop keen skills and establish open communication channels with children, especially those with special needs. Early detection and intervention are key in preventing long-term psychological, physical harm,” she said.

    Dr. Sanwo-Olu urged parents and guardians to educate their children about body safety and personal boundaries in ways that align with their understanding and learning abilities.

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    She reiterated that the government has zero tolerance for abuse, and reassured them of government’s commitment to their safety.

    Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Bamidele Sulaiman, reaffirmed his dedication to strengthening policies and initiatives that protect children, women, and vulnerable groups.

    He hailed the council’s commitment to amplifying awareness of gender-based violence and advocating a society free of abuse.

    Principal of Wesley School 1, Mrs. Elizabeth Popoola, noted the school’s commitment to providing excellent free education and vocational training for children.

  • Ajah residents urge Sanwo-Olu to stop alleged imposition of traditional leader

    Ajah residents urge Sanwo-Olu to stop alleged imposition of traditional leader

    Residents of the Ajah community in Lagos State staged a peaceful protest at the Governor’s Office on Monday, sending a Save Our Soul (SOS) message to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu over the alleged imposition of the Olumegbon family as the new traditional ruler of Ajah. 

    This marks their second demonstration following a similar protest at the Lagos State House of Assembly on November 28, 2024, where they sought the lawmakers’ intervention. 

    Kazeem Odunlami, General Secretary of the Ajah Community, led hundreds of protesters to the governor’s office, urging Governor Sanwo-Olu to halt the alleged imposition to avoid potential conflicts in the area. 

    “Here today, December 9, 2024, we are here to make our submission and solidarity with our people in Ajah before our governor the talk and do governor.

    “He is never tired. He is not a governor who always rests. He works round the clock.

    “Then we pray to almighty Allah to grant his tenure successful and peacefully in the state because he talks and does.

    “We are here to protest to let the governor know the planned imposition of the Olumegbon family as a traditional ruler in the Ajah community.

    “We don’t want the governor to listen to misleading misinformation about the ownership of Ajah.

    “We all know that the state government is so staunch about law, the governor supports and believes in the rule of law. That is why Lagos l state is being treated as a centre of excellence.

     “Because in a situation where there is no rule of law, there will be a state of anarchy. When the state of anarchy emerges, there will be no peace.

    “We are begging the state government to save our soul from this imposition to avoid communal clashes in the Ajah community.

    “All the families of Ajah say no to the superimposition of Olumegbon Family as the ruler of Ajah Community”, “Ajah Community seeks for Peace.”

    “Olumegbon has never ruled the Ajah community from time immemorial, it will not change now!”, “For over 300 years, Baale of Ajah has been the one ruling the Ajah community and that is our culture and tradition,” he said.

    The general secretary appealed to the governor to take a bold step and act promptly to save the community from imposition.

    He noted that under the state’s customs and traditions, the chieftaincy title of Olumegbon of Lagos was not associated with the rulership of the Ajah community.

    Odulami said that the only recognized chieftaincy in Ajah since the colonial days was the Baale (Olomodi) of Ajah adding that Olumegbon had no historical or judicial background to become the Oba of Ajah!

    Odunlami said the Ajah community would never accept the rulership of Ajah by the Olumegbon family since the family has never ruled the land from time immemorial.

    Addressing the protesters, Ayodeji Haruna, Director of the Office of Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement, commended the peaceful nature of the protest and assured them that their concerns would be relayed to the governor for resolution. 

    “I assure you that this matter will not be ignored. The governor will address it promptly, and we appreciate your peaceful approach in bringing this to our attention,” Haruna said. 

    The Ajah community insists that the Baale system remains the legitimate leadership structure, dismissing the Olumegbon family’s claim to the throne as unfounded and contrary to their longstanding traditions.

  • Sanwo-Olu presents staff of office to new Orijeru of Igbooye kingdom

    Sanwo-Olu presents staff of office to new Orijeru of Igbooye kingdom

    …reiterates the importance of royal fathers as key allies of the government

    Governor Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has presented staff of office to Oba Abdurasak Akanni Musa, the Orijeru of Igbooye Kingdom in Eredo Local Council Development Area, Epe.

    A master’s degree holder of the prestigious University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, Oba Abdurasak Akanni Musa, until ascending the throne of his forefathers, was a professional town planner with a specialty in urban development.

    The Staff of Office and Instrument of Appointment were presented on Friday to the new king on behalf of the governor by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Kayode Robert, at the Epe Local Government Secretariat.

    During the ceremony, Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his address, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring equitable infrastructural development across Lagos State, including the Epe Division.

    He emphasized the critical role of royal fathers in promoting progress, peace, and harmony within their communities, describing them as indispensable partners of the government.

    He further assured that the Lagos State Government would continue to prioritize the welfare of traditional rulers across the State. Speaking through his representative, he said:

    “On behalf of myself, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I congratulate Your Royal Majesty on ascending the revered stool of your ancestors. Your selection by the Kingmakers and the widespread acceptance by your people underscores their confidence in your ability to steer this kingdom towards greater prosperity and development.

    “As a custodian of tradition and culture, you bear the responsibility to foster unity, friendship, and collaboration among royal fathers and chiefs within this Division and beyond.”

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    The Executive Chairman of Eredo LCDA, Ismail Monsuru Akinloye, who was represented by the vice chairman, Adesanya Lateef, also congratulated Oba Abdurasak Akanni Musa on his installation.

    He urged Oba Akanni Musa, to utilize his vast experience to drive the growth and advancement of Igbooye, Eredo LCDA, the Epe Division, and Lagos State as a whole.

    “Your Royal Majesty brings to this prestigious stool a wealth of expertise and a history of accomplishments.

    “I have no doubt that your reign will catalyze remarkable development in Igbooye, Epe Division, and the State at large,” Akinloye remarked.

    He further urged the sons and daughters of Igbooye to rally around the new king, emphasizing the importance of collective effort to ensure a reign characterized by peace, unity, and unprecedented progress for the historic Igbooye Kingdom.

  • Sanwo-Olu seeks investors for 60km Lagos Purple Line Project

    Sanwo-Olu seeks investors for 60km Lagos Purple Line Project

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Has Said The Steady Progress And Successes Of The State’s Two Metro lines is enough to elicit interest of global investors in looking towards the state and partnering with the government in the development of the proposed Purple Rail Line project.

     The State had last year commenced operation on the first phase of the fully electrified Blue Line Rail, while in October this year, it started commercial operation on the Diesel propelled Red Line metro line. The second phase of both lines is currently ongoing.

    The state is desirous of embarking on two more metro lines – the Green Line, which is proposed to course through Marina and terminates at the Lekki Free Zone, and the Purple Line, which is to begin at Mowe, course through the Long Bridge, Ojodu, Ogba, and end at Ojo.

     Speaking at the Africa Investment Forum Market Days in Morocco on Wednesday, Sanwo-Olu who presented the state’s investment strategy for the Purple Rail Line project before African investors, assured that the project represents a viable investment opportunity with promising returns and declared that his administration is excited to move forward with the project.

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     Sanwo-Olu said the Purple Rail Line, a 60 km electrified rail system, will include 16 stations and integrate with existing bus services to boost residents’ connectivity.

     According to him, it is projected to serve over 300,000 passengers daily, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging a shift from road to rail transportation.

     “At the Africa Investment Forum Market Days, I presented our investment strategy for the Purple Rail Line project.

     “The Purple Rail Line is a 60 km electrified rail system that will include 16 stations and seamlessly integrate with existing metro and bus services to enhance connectivity.