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  • Sanwo-Olu seeks national energy renaissance at power forum

    Sanwo-Olu seeks national energy renaissance at power forum

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated need for innovative solutions and collaborative strategies to address increasing energy demands.

    He spoke at a forum of commissioners for Energy and Power in Lagos to chart a path for the future of energy.

     The governor, represented by Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, underscored the forum’s significance as a platform for shaping the future of Nigeria’s energy landscape.

    He noted growing demands driven by industrialisation, urbanisation, and population growth, emphasising need for sustainable and equitable solutions to bridge the gap between supply and demand.

    “Lagos State has always been in the forefront of innovative energy solutions,” he said.

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    “Through initiatives like Lagos State Electricity Policy and public-private partnerships, we have decentralised energy access, promoted renewable energy sources, and enhanced efficiency. Our Eko Electric Project stands as a testament to what can be achieved with focused innovation.”

    Sanwo-Olu stressed importance of collaboration among states and the Federal Government to harmonise policies, streamline regulations, and incentivise investments in renewable energy technologies.

    He called for a national energy renaissance, advocating adoption of decentralised power generation, smart grids, and energy storage solutions to achieve energy independence and meet global carbon reduction commitments.

    Sanwo-Olu assured participants of the state’s support in advancing the energy sector and achieving a robust, sustainable energy future.

    Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, noted that energy is at the core of Nigeria’s national aspirations, especially in an era where sustainable power solutions are critical for growth and development.

    “Lagos State, with its vibrant economy and over 26 million residents, understands the responsibility of energy leadership,” he said, reiterating the state’s commitment to innovation, resilient energy systems, and fostering partnerships that also contribute to the nation’s energy agenda.

    Recognising achievements of states, he urged participants to use the forum as a springboard for collective impact.

    Chair of the Forum of Commissioners for Power and Energy in Nigeria, and Commissioner for Power and Renewable Energy in Cross River, Eka Williams, called for initiatives to strengthen and encourage investments at sub-national level.

    Williams hoped the forum’s deliberations would contribute to achieving Nigeria’s energy development goals.

  • Remain peaceful, Sanwo-Olu urges residents

    Remain peaceful, Sanwo-Olu urges residents

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged community associations to promote peace and unity in their communities, emphasising importance of working together to safeguard the state’s progress.

    Sanwo-Olu spoke during 2024 Community Day celebration at Police College ground in Ikeja. It was organised by Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, with the theme: ‘Stronger together, building a resilient society’.

    The governor, represented by Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, noted that the annual event has become a key platform for recognising contributions of community development bodies.

    He stressed the need for peaceful co-existence, particularly in the light of global challenges, and urged Lagosians to remain united, regardless of their religious, cultural, or social backgrounds.

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    “As we celebrate today, I urge Lagosians, represented by over 5,000 Community Development Associations (CDAs), to supportour shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous Lagos.

    “Let us stay vigilant and united against any actions that may jeopardise our investments, infrastructure, or heritage. The consequences of destabilisation would be devastating for us,” he said.

    The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing needs of the people and ensuring their voices are heard. He emphasised that the theme aligned with Lagos Resilience Strategy, which seeks to create a stronger, more adaptable city capable of overcoming local and global challenges.

    The governor outlined initiatives his administration has undertaken in the last five years to help Lagosians adapt to economic and social pressures. These include EKO CARES, and other interventions.

    “Additionally, we have established Non-Partisan Special Dispensation Advisory Council, including rights activists, religious leaders, youth representatives, and members of opposition parties. This council ensures our programmess are inclusive, fair, and effective.”

  • Sanwo-Olu proposes N3.05tr 2025 estimates

    Sanwo-Olu proposes N3.05tr 2025 estimates

    • Work to start on Green Rail Line

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has proposed an ambitious N3.005 trillion budget estimate for next year.

    The governor unveiled the proposal during the presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill to the House of Assembly for consideration.

    The Bill christened “Budget of Sustainability,”  represents a 32.5 percent increase over this year’s N2.3 trillion budget 

    The increment, Sanwo-Olu said, reflected the growing citizens’ demands for sustainable interventions in programmes and projects that would raise productivity and energise economic growth in the state.

    The 2025 budget proposal is made up of recurrent expenditure of N1.239 trillion, representing 41 percent of the total budget, and a capital expenditure of N1.766 trillion, which represents 59 percent of the budget.

    Sanwo-Olu said the state would finance the estimates through a combination of a projected revenue inflow of N2.597 trillion and a deficit financing of N408.9 billion.

    The revenue sources, according to him, include Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) projected to be N1.971 trillion, and federal transfers of N626.1 billion.

    The governor said the budget’s deficit would be financed through external and internal loans as well as the issuance of bonds that would be within the state’s fiscal sustainability parameters.

    Highlighting the sectoral allocation in the 2025 budget, he said the government would spend N233.176 billion on the Environment;  N204.005 billion on  Health;  N208.376 billion on  Education; N124.073 billion on  Security, Safety, and Public Order.     Social Protection will gulp N47.077 billion.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Sanwo-Olu presents N3tr budget estimates for 2025 to Assembly

    Sanwo-Olu said that   36 roads and bridges completed by his government across the state have been scheduled for inauguration from the beginning of next month.

    The governor also announced that Lagos had sealed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal  Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) to kickstart exploratory work on the development of a 68-kilometre Green Line, which will connect Marina and the Lekki Free Trade Zone — a fast-growing industrial corridor.

    The Blue Line between Mile 2 and Marina has been running since last year while the Red Line from Oyingbo to Agbado in Ogun State, started running in September.

    He said: “This 2025 budget is not just a fiscal document but a blueprint for continuity, resilience and shared prosperity for every Lagosian. As a key economic hub, Lagos stands at a crossroads: a nexus of challenges that test our resolve and opportunities that call for bold action. In crafting this budget, we have listened to our citizens’ voices, studied the global and local economic realities, and reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring that Lagos continues to thrive sustainably for generations to come.

    “Next year, we are making significant progress in revitalising cultural, religious, and recreational infrastructure across the state.

    These initiatives are aimed not only at preserving the rich cultural heritage of Lagos but also to unlock the tourism economy by creating spaces for recreation and artistic expression.

    “I am also pleased to note that we have recently signed MoU with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) to kickstart exploratory work on the development of the 68-km Green Line, which will connect Marina to the Lekki Free Trade Zone.

    ‘’On  road construction and repairs, we have completed 36 road projects, including bridges, link bridges, and pedestrian infrastructure, all of which are scheduled for commissioning from December.”

    Sanwo-Olu described the performance of the current year’s budget as “excellent.” He noted that the 2024 budget had been implemented to the tune of N1.423 trillion, representing 84 percent performance as of the end of the third quarter.

    Presenting the 2025 budget, the governor urged the lawmakers to play their part by ensuring that it was thoroughly scrutinised and speedily passed.

    Sanwo-Olu said: “Let me assure the House that this budget is not just a statement of intentions but a practical, actionable framework designed to impact lives. From students and entrepreneurs in Yaba to the farmers and fishermen in Epe and Badagry, from the business executives and market women on Lagos Island to the factory workers in Ikorodu, this budget is all about the people of Lagos alone.

    “I also assure our residents of my commitment towards ensuring that this proposed budget is able to effectively recalibrate the state’s economy, stimulate economic growth and strengthen the positive trajectory.”

  • YABATECH should drive Nigeria’s industrial revolution, says Sanwo-Olu

    YABATECH should drive Nigeria’s industrial revolution, says Sanwo-Olu

    Lagos State Governor Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu has challenged the management of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) to drive Nigeria’s industrial revolution.

    Sanwo-Olu threw this challenge while delivering the 36th Convocation Lecture on Tuesday in Lagos.

    The theme of the lecture is: “Developing Exportable Alternatives for Nigeria’s Economic Recovery”.

    While enjoining the college to conduct more research, the governor said the college is endowed with full of academics and professionals in various fields of technological endeavour.

    He said: “As a College of Technology, you have the responsibility of inventing and producing the technology that will drive Nigeria’s industrial revolution. Invent technologies that will turn our limited-value cocoa beans into limitless-value chocolate and our lithium reserves into high-tech batteries”.

    Sanwo-Olu also tasked the college to research the nation’s vast solar and wind energy potential and turn them into abundant electricity to power homes, factories and ports.

    “YABATECH should be at the forefront of the homegrown technology revolution. Such revolution should make it possible for Nigeria to transform its natural resources into high-value processed goods for both local and export to be consumption,” he added.

    According to him, increased attention on the nation’s export capacity and potential will help to advance its economy and make it more prosperous.

    Sanwo-Olu said the nation’s foreign exchange situation has hurt the Naira’s stability, adding that it is also complicating some other problems, including inflation.

    Nigeria, he said, is blessed with human and material resources and endowed with the potential to be great.

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    “We need to rise and convert all our potential into reality. A country that is the world’s biggest producer of cassava and yam should be earning hundreds of millions of dollars annually from exporting them.

    “If there is one lesson we have learnt over many decades, it is that there is no value or pride in exporting raw materials to the world. Countries that prosper from natural resources are those that process and add value to them before exporting,” the governor said.

    Sanwo-Olu said that Nigeria’s exports have dropped drastically over the past decades.

    He noted that the country was once known for the export of agricultural produce such as groundnut, cotton and cocoa.

    “Oil and gas products have dropped over the last several years, we have not managed to protect the goose that has laid the golden eggs. We have since become known for our near-absolute dependency on food import,” he added.

    The governor stressed the need to create more opportunities to engage the youths positively across the country.

    According to him, illiteracy, poverty, ignorance and disease should not be allowed to thrive in the country.

    “Also, we are building the largest logistics park for agriculture in Sub-Saharan Africa. All these are a testament to enabling a non-oil export economy for Nigeria,” he said.

    Welcoming guests to the event, the College Rector, Dr Ibraheem Abdul, said the convocation lecture provided a platform to discuss solutions to some of Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

    Abdul added that it was also to celebrate the academic accomplishments of its students.

    “The institution has a legacy of contributing to Nigeria’s industrial and economic advancement.

    “We are committed to fostering creativity, equipping students with practical skills and bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application,” he said.

  • Sanwo-Olu to graduates: create a nation thriving on industrialisation, others

    Sanwo-Olu to graduates: create a nation thriving on industrialisation, others

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged graduates to be value creators and change-makers who will redefine Nigeria’s role on the global stage and create a nation that no longer relies on raw material exports, but one that thrives on innovation, industrialization and shared prosperity.

    Sanwo-Olu delivered the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) 36th convocation lecture: “Developing Export Alternatives for Nigeria’s Economic Recovery,” on campus in Yaba, Lagos.

    He said it is imperative for the nation to diversify its export base from oil and gas to boost the economy and lift people out of poverty.

    The governor stressed the need to stop over-dependence on oil and gas exports which, according to him, has done more harm than good to the economy. The governor, while emphasising the need to shift from oil and gas exports, stated that between January and June 2024, Nigeria earned $2.7 billion US dollars from non-oil exports, a figure less than what Vietnam earns a month from exporting mobile phones and their components.

    He noted that beyond physical goods like processed agricultural products, it is important to promote the arts and creative industries, culture and technology as non-oil exports.

    “Afrobeats and Nollywood are among the biggest cultural exports out of Africa. The latest Grammy nominations are testament to the global influence of Nigerian music, as is the scale of the attention coming to our film industry from Netflix and other global platforms,” he said.

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    He said with the state’s infrastructural development, Lagos State is at the forefront of enabling non-oil export economy for Nigeria, through direct investments and public-private partnerships.

    Sanwo-Olu urged the graduates to be value creators, and change makers who will redefine Nigeria’s role on the global stage and create a nation that no longer relies on raw material exports, but one that thrives on innovation, industrialisation, and shared prosperity.

    Vice President Kashim Shettima, who was represented by Special Adviser on Economic Affairs in the office of the Vice President, Tope Fasua, said it is imperative for the nation to rank among technologically advanced nations.

    “YABATECH remains one of the best institutions in the land. Our dreams of a technology advanced nation must be achieved. There is still work ahead for this institution in the field of technology pedagogy.

    “Science and technology has given much fillip to the world. We need to connect with the original intention of this institution to create value,” he said.

    The rector, Dr. Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, reiterated the institution’s commitment to fostering creativity, equipping students with practical skills, and bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world applications.

  • Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, Okpebholo congratulate Aiyedatiwa

    Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, Okpebholo congratulate Aiyedatiwa

    Governors  Babjide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun, Ahmed Ododo (Kogi) and former President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday congratulated Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for vinning weekend’s governorship poll.

    They also lauded the Ondo State electorate for making the APC their choice party. 

    In separate messages, the governors tasked Aiyedatiwa to remain focused and deliver more dividends of democracy to the people. 

      Sanwo-Olu, who was chairman of APC  National Campaign Council for the  Governorship Election, also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for providing the right leadership and charting the right direction for Nigeria’s social-economic transformation.

    He said in a statement that the work of the campaign council was made easy by the good job    Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu did before his passing last December. 

    Sanwo-Olu said: “I want to thank the good people of Ondo State for their unflinching support and continued belief in our great party, the All Progressives Congress.

    ‘’This belief and support for our party have been demonstrated several times, including the past governorship elections, the local government elections, and the presidential election that ushered in the Renewed Hope team of our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “As progressives, you have stood by us through difficult times, and now, the good times are here because you came out in numbers yesterday(Saturday), defying the scorching sun, and waited in queues for hours to cast your ballot for our candidate, your Governor, Mr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami.

    “As always, you roundly rejected those other political parties that represent nothing but retrogression, and you voted for progress. For this, we say thank you.

    “  I must state that our work was made a lot easier by the good job that His Excellency, the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, had done, which has been built on by his successor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for the people of Ondo State.

    ‘’As the saying goes, you can build something on nothing! We only came here to build layers on the structure provided by Governor Aiyedatiwa and his team.’’

      Sanwo-Olu’s Edo State counterpart Okpebholo described Aiyedatiwa’s  victory as    ‘’a good omen’’

    Okpebholo prayed to God to grant Aiyedatiwa the wisdom to pilot the affairs of Ondo State for the next four years.

    He said: “I congratulate my friend and brother, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State for emerging victorious in last Saturday’s governorship election.

    “His victory is a good omen. I am certain that we will work closely together to bring peace and development to our dear states, as good neighbours.

    The governor,  in an online statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, also   appreciated ‘’the good people of Ondo State for voting for Governor Aiyedatiwa.”

    Governor Ododo,who served as the deputy chairman of the committee on election management and strategy in the campaign council, attributed  Aiyedatiwa’s triumph to hard work and strategic planning by the APC.  

    His   Special Adviser on Media  Ismail Isah, quoted him  as  saying that Aiyedatiwa’s administration  would  continue the development trajectory which “the APC has been known for in Ondo state over the years.”

    His words:  “We have known Governor Aiyedatiwa. He has been tested and can be trusted to continue the good work of the APC administration in Ondo State.

    “We have no doubt that he will build on existing infrastructure, social welfare, and security of lives and property across the state.

    “I am confident that he will succeed with this new mandate which is a further boost to the popularity and acceptance of the APC in Ondo State.”

    •Result  further endorsement of APC, Tinubu’s administration’

    Deputy President of the Senate Barau Jibrin hailed the governor’s victory a further endorsement of the APC and President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    Jibrin also applauded the APC  national chairman   Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for making the party more cohesive.

    “The victory of our great party, the All Progressives Congress, in Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo State is well-deserved. I congratulate the governor-elect, H.E. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and all our supporters on this victory. It is not just a victory for the APC but for our democracy and the people of Ondo State,’’ he said in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail 

     “This victory is a further endorsement of our great party, the APC, and a reaffirmation of the confidence of the people of the state in the exemplary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Jibrin added. 

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    Victory an affirmation of people’s will, says Abiodun

    Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun described Aiyedatiwa’s victory as an affirmation of the people’s will and the endorsement of his pro-people agenda.

    In his congratulatory message on Aiyedatiwa’s election,  Abiodun emphasized that the victor was not only well-deserved but also a testament to the outstanding performance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

    “This victory reflects the unwavering support of the people for our party’s vision and dedication,” the Ogun governor said, stressing that the APC issue-based campaign resonated deeply with the electorate.

    Prince Abiodun also commended the collective efforts of all individuals and groups who contributed to the electoral success, commending the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), police, NSCDC, among others, for a job well-done in ensuring a free, fair and credible exercise.

    He also acknowledged the leadership of the APC at both the national and state levels for their relentless commitment and perseverance, even as he remarked that the ruling party has been waxing stronger under the leadership of Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje as National Chairman.

    The governor also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his exemplary democratic principles, noting, “since taking office, President Tinubu has championed a level playing field in our electoral processes, ensuring a fair and transparent environment for all candidate.

    “This victory not only signifies a milestone for Aiyedatiwa but also reinforces the APC’s stronghold in Ondo State, paving the way for continued progress and development.”

    Buhari: Voters have spoken

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari commended the success of the APC in the governorship election, saying the voters had spoken lucidly and loudly about the confidence they have in the party and the governor.

     Buhari said in a statement by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, that the voters had expressed their wish through the ballot box, adding that this should be respected by other stakeholders.

    The former president said the election’s outcome had shown that democracy remained strong and could not be easily overturned in a country as large and diverse as Nigeria.

    He, however, challenged the governor-elect to put in place policies that engender economic growth, tame high unemployment and inflation while pursuing welfare programmes to make life better for the people.

    Buhari also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and law enforcement agencies for their efforts in reducing observed shortcomings in previous elections.

    Election is free,  credible, says Jimoh Ibrahim

    Senator  Jimoh Ibrahim  has  described the conduct of the   governorship election as ‘’free, fair and credible.’’

    Ibrahim spoke to reporters at Igbotako, Okitipupa Local Government Area at the weekend.

    The business mogul, who re-emphasized his loyalty to the  APC, said:’’I can confidently tell you that I am satisfied with the conduct of this election because it is free, fair, credible, and without violence.

    “I voted for my party as a loyal member under President Bola Tinubu and our respected National party chairman, Ganduje and I can say that definitely, APC will win this election.”

    Group lauds minister’s efforts

    Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo (BTO) was yesterday hailed for his outstanding contributions to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s victory.

    He was lauded by a group which identified itself as “The BTO Political Family”, which noted that his political influence was on display in his Akoko Northwest Local Government Area constituency.

    The group said the huge votes recorded in the minister’s area reinforced APC’s dominance in the Sunshine State.

    The statement reads: “This is not the first time Hon. Tunji-Ojo has delivered such groundbreaking results. During the 2023 presidential election, Akoko Northwest also led the state in votes for the APC, significantly contributing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s success.

    “His consistency in mobilising grassroots support underscores his unparalleled dedication to the party’s growth and progress.

    “This win is a testament to the people’s trust in his leadership and vision for a greater Ondo State”.

    Electoral defeats sign of PDP rejection

    The defeats of the PDP in the Edo and Ondo governorship polls are signs that it has been rejected as political party, a group based in Osun State concluded yesterday.

    The group – Osun Progressives Youths (O-SPY) – spoke through a statement by its Coordinator, Tunmise Ajiboye, said in statement:  “I rejoice with the leadership of APC over the victory recorded in Ondo State. This is a testament that PDP is a rejected party.

    “We are certain that people of Osun State are eager to sack PDP in Osun State come 2026.PDP ought to be begging for forgiveness from Nigeria with the way they held the country at the jugular before the emergence of APC.”

  • Sanwo-Olu lauds organisers of  Lagos Women Run  

    Sanwo-Olu lauds organisers of  Lagos Women Run  

    The Director General of Lagos State Sports Commission , Lekan Fatodu, said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu  was proud of the giant strides so far attained by the Lagos Women Run.

    Fatodu who stated  as much at the finish point of the 2024 edition of the event which was the 9th  edition, said that women empowerment was  one of the key priorities of the Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

    Fatodu  was at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena where the participants converged to receive their certificates, prizes and afterwards had an after event party. He interacted with the participants, runners and foreign guests who came to the finish point even with their families even as he  assured them of the continuous support of the Lagos State government for the Women Run.

     “The Governor (Sanwo-Olu) is so passionate about the fitness, wellness and empowerment of women and that is why this programme is always supported every year. The governor is happy it is getting better. I have seen participants from abroad and some from other states of the federation.

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     “It is good for people to appreciate the tourism potentials in the state through the women run. The pre-event like training and EXPO are other good aspects we are proud of because these could change the life of some of the participants forever,” Fatodu said.

    The Lagos Sports DG also assured that the 10th  edition of the LWR would be very historic and elaborate in all aspects.

     “We are going to plan big for it and make it memorable,” he stressed.

    Recall  that  the Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Emem, Usoro, flagged off and completed her own race  at  the 9th  edition of the race at the Tafawa Balewa Square.

    Joy Abiye David won the race with a time of 38:35:21 ahead of Cameroon’s Liliane Nguesta who finished with a time of 40:02:54. Charity Ogofure was third with her 40:09:23 effort.

  • Sanwo-Olu felicitates Obasa at 52

    Sanwo-Olu felicitates Obasa at 52

    • Lawmakers honour Speaker with confidence vote

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has congratulated the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Dr. Mudashiru Obasa, on his 52nd birthday.

    He described him as a committed and passionate lawmaker with an enviable track record of good performance.

    He said Obasa, who turned 52 yesterday, had recorded significant strides in his public service to impact his generation positively and contribute to the growth and development of Lagos State.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a message issued yesterday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said Obasa, as the leader of the legislative arm of government, had contributed immensely to the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration in Lagos State.

    The governor said Obasa had contributed positively to his constituency, Agege I, the State Assembly, Lagos State, and Nigeria in general, through qualitative representation and contribution to legislative business.

    He said: “On behalf of my wife, Ibijoke, the government and the people of Lagos State, I congratulate the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, on his 52nd birthday celebration.

    Members of Lagos State House of Assembly yesterday passed a vote of confidence in Speaker Mudashiru Obasa.

    They said they remained satisfied with his leadership.

    The vote of confidence coincided with his 52nd birthday.

    The legislators eulogised him for uplifting democracy through laws that impacted positively on the people.

    “I rise this afternoon to move a motion that a vote of confidence be passed in Dr Obasa to continue the good work he is doing, especially in the 10th Assembly.

    “It is good to note that every decision the Speaker has taken in the House has been with the full consent of his fellow lawmakers. He consults members and gets their opinions,” Majority Leader Noheem Adams said during plenary presided over by Deputy Speaker Mojisola Meranda.

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    Adams said his motion, seconded by Sa’ad Olumoh (Ajeromi-Ifelodun I), followed a wide consultation.

     “The Speaker is worth celebrating for his contributions to the growth and development of Lagos State, particularly in the legislative arm of government. He has served the people of Agege Constituency I passionately for over 21 years and has been leading the House of Assembly for the past nine years.

    “He is a loyal and committed member of the progressive family in Lagos State. He is an outstanding politician worthy of emulation and commendation because of the role he has been playing as leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly. And as a Speaker, he has discharged his duties with utmost professionalism, commitment, competence and dedication to ensure a cordial relationship between the legislature and executive for the progress of our dear Lagos State.

    “I wish Rt. Hon. Obasa more fulfilling years. I pray that God will grant him the grace, long life and sound health to continue to direct the affairs of Lagos State House of Assembly and render more service to humanity, Lagos State and Nigeria.”

  • Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, Sanusi, others honour Adeduntan

    Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, Sanusi, others honour Adeduntan

    Prominent leaders, including Lago Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun and Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, have honoured Dr Adesola Adeduntan, a former Group Managing Director of First Bank Nigeria Limited for his remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s financial sector.

    The event which celebrated Adeduntan’s outstanding leadership and transformative impact was organised by the staff and management of First Bank at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Abiodun described Adeduntan distinguished banking career as a testament to his unwavering dedication to integrity and his commitment to excellence in the financial sector.

    He said: “Under Adeduntan’s leadership, First Bank thrived, setting new benchmarks in banking innovation, customer service and corporate responsibility.

    “Through his forward-thinking approach, he has helped shape the future of Nigeria’s banking sector. For emerging leaders, he has set a powerful example that true leadership is not only about achieving success but also about creating pathways for others to follow.

    “I thank you for the consistent support you gave Ogun State under my watch that resulted in some people oriented landmark projects.”

    A number of eminent personalities across all sectors of the economy were on hand to honour Adeduntan.

     Sanwo-Olu described Adeduntan as the best in a class of what a proper Nigerian should be. 

    He thanked Adeduntan for providing tremendous support to Lagos State while he was at the helm of affairs at First Bank.

     Sanwo-Olu said: “There were several times you spoke to me personally to ask what the state’s requirements are and how well I felt the bank was meeting my expectations. You also took up personally, whatever issues we have as a state and dealt with them. I cherish those times and indeed, you were one of the finest, the best that came out of First Bank,” he added.

    The Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, a former MD/CEO of First Bank and the first northern Nigerian to head the bank, in his eulogy, regaled guests about how Adeduntan transformed the bank to regain its first-tier status.

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    He said: “Having been out of the industry for a while, I took the liberty of asking for some numbers from the bank just to give you an idea of the work Shola did through most of his reign between 2015 and 2023. Group deposits increased from N2.9 trillion to N13.1 trillion. Total assets from N4 trillion to N20.7 trillion. Profit before tax from N10.2 billion to N317 billion. Return on equity from 0.6 per cent to 45.5 per cent in Q1 2024. Number of customers’ accounts from 10.9 million to 42 million. Issued cards from 7 million to 12.7million. Online users from 100,000 to 7.8 million. USSD users from 500,000 to 15.4 million. And so on and so forth.”

    In his eulogy to Adeduntan, Alhaji Ahmad Abdullahi, a former Director of Banking Supervision, CBN as well as a former chairman of First Bank Holdings PLC revealed that First Bank of Nigeria was at a tipping point between 2015/2016 when Adeduntan was appointed the Group CEO.

    Abdullahi said: “He had a clear-cut assignment from CBN which was to move the institution back from the brink to a position of stability, improve its financial performance and improve its credit rating. I remember sitting down with Shola and the CBN governor at that time to map out a workout plan for First Bank. The question is, did he succeed? The fact that today, we are celebrating under the banner of First Bank is a testimony to the excellent work that Shola has done, moving the institution from the brink, from precipice to a position of relative stability.”

  • Sanwo-Olu’s wife preaches proper waste management

    Sanwo-Olu’s wife preaches proper waste management

    Wife of the Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has advocated for proper waste management, especially in markets, to ensure a cleaner Lagos and better living for residents.

    Mrs. Sanwo-Olu spoke at the Sabo Ultra-Modern Market Yaba, during a one-day seminar on Sanitisation and Security for Market Leaders in Yaba Local Council Development Area.

    The seminar, organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, was to sensitise leaders on measures to prevent any forms of hazards within the markets.

    The theme was ‘Improving Waste Management and Public Health in Markets: A Recipe for Economic Growth and Prosperity in Lagos Central Senatorial District’.

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    The governor’s wife explained that her office has continues to re-echo the importance of hygiene, safety and security in marketplaces, while supporting several initiatives of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration towards promoting market sanitation and safety.

    According to her, markets are the lifeblood of the economy that provides essential goods and services, but also posing environmental and health risks when people refuse to adhere to environmental guidelines on proper Waste Management.

    She said: “Without proper waste management, we risk the possibility of contamination of food and water, air and water pollution, which do not only threaten the lives of consumers, but also the lives of traders.

    “But we can change the narrative by adhering strictly to guidelines which would help in converting waste to wealth when properly done. The Lagos of our dream and the 21St Century Economy we desire in Lagos would only be possible when we religiously adhere to the guidelines on proper waste disposal and recycling in our markets.