Lagos Monitoring Team

Lagos Monitoring Team Bringing people up to speed with happenings in Lagos in particular, Nigeria and worldwide...

Happy New Year 2025!
01/01/2025

Happy New Year 2025!

Pictures: Isale-Eko Descendants Union Holds Annual General Meeting and Chairman's Year End Get-TogetherCourtesy Adeniji ...
31/12/2024

Pictures: Isale-Eko Descendants Union Holds Annual General Meeting and Chairman's Year End Get-Together

Courtesy Adeniji Kazeem, former Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice

LAGOS FIRST LADY REWARDS EVERY HOME A GARDEN PARTICIPANTS WITH N18.7MILLIONLagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke San...
31/12/2024

LAGOS FIRST LADY REWARDS EVERY HOME A GARDEN PARTICIPANTS WITH N18.7MILLION

Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has presented a total of N18.7million cash rewards to participants of the Every Home A Garden Competition, celebrating their creativity, resilience, and dedication to sustainable home gardening.

Mrs. Nwankwo Adaeze Glory from Epe Division emerged as the overall winner, receiving ₦1 million, while four divisional winners each received ₦500,000.

Additionally, 157 participants were rewarded with ₦100,000 each to further encourage their efforts.

The First Lady emphasized that this initiative, a branch of the Renewed Hope Initiative of Nigeria’s First Lady, Her Excellency, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, goes beyond monetary prizes but is aimed at promoting sustainability and the joy of growing food at home.

“Her commitment to nurturing home gardening in Lagos State remains unwavering,” she said.

The event held at Lagos House, Ikeja, had in attendance the Wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, and key government officials, including Commissioners for Agriculture and Food Systems, Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and Information and Strategy, Basic and Secondary Education, amongst others.

“Together, we celebrate the ingenuity of Lagos women,” the First Lady said.


Sanwo-Olu Appoints Muri-Okunola’s Brother, Others As Permanent Secretaries Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu ...
31/12/2024

Sanwo-Olu Appoints Muri-Okunola’s Brother, Others As Permanent Secretaries

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the appointment of three new Permanent Secretaries in the State Public Service.

Among the list is Mr. Abdul-Rasheed Abiola Muri-Okunola, brother of the immediate past Head of Service in the state and now Principal Secretary to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mr Hakeem Muri-Okunola.

Until his new appointment, Mr. Abdul-Rasheed Abiola Muri-Okunola served as the Director, Administration & Human Resources and General Manager, Lagos State Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA).

Other appointees are Mr. Abdul Rafiu Omowole Fashola, Director, Administration & Human Resources and Secretary, Staff Housing & Loans Board; and Mrs. Kaphayah Olayemi Sarumi, Director, State Counsel, Lagos State Waterways Authority.

The Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro, in a statement, expressed confidence in the capabilities and competencies of the new appointees, just as he affirmed recognition of their diligence, commitment, intellectual capacity, and dedication to effective service delivery.

While wishing them a most rewarding and impactful tenure of Office, the Head of Service stated that the appointments shall be with effect from 31st of December, 2024.

He also added that their deployment will be announced in due course.

SANWO-OLU COMMISERATES WITH JIGAWA STATE GOVERNOR ON SON, MOTHER’S DEATH  Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ...
27/12/2024

SANWO-OLU COMMISERATES WITH JIGAWA STATE GOVERNOR ON SON, MOTHER’S DEATH


Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commiserated with his Jigawa State counterpart, Umar Namadi, on the death of his eldest son, Abdulwahab, who died in a car accident on Thursday.

Sanwo-Olu also extended his condolences to the Namadi family and the entire people of Jigawa State over the demise of the Governor's mother, Hajiya Maryam Namadi, who died from an illness on Wednesday.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, expressed his heartfelt sympathy over the deaths of Maryam and Abdulwahab Namadi.

He urged Governor Namadi, the deceased's family, friends, associates and the entire people of Jigawa State to take the death of Abdulwahab as an act of God.

”No doubt, the death of a loved one is usually painful as it is irreparable, but we must always take solace in God, who gives and takes.

”On behalf of my family, the people, and the government of Lagos State, I sympathise with my brother Governor, Umar Namadi, his wife, the siblings of the deceased, the entire family, and the people of Jigawa State over the irreparable loss of Abdulwahab Namadi.

"We also condole with the Jigawa State Governor and the entire family over the demise of Hajiya Maryam Namadi.

"We extend our deepest and heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Namadi family and the people of Jigawa State at this crucial time.

”I pray that God will grant the late Maryam and Abdulwahab Namadi eternal rest and grant the family, friends, and associates the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to our wonderful and amazing readers from all of us at Lagos Monitoring Team
25/12/2024

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to our wonderful and amazing readers from all of us at Lagos Monitoring Team

Still on the matter…What’s on your mind regarding yesterday’s  , the first by President Bola Ahmed  ?
24/12/2024

Still on the matter…

What’s on your mind regarding yesterday’s , the first by President Bola Ahmed ?

TINUBU BLASTS OBASA OVER CONTROVERSIAL LAGOS COUNCIL LAW The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and leader of ...
23/12/2024

TINUBU BLASTS OBASA OVER CONTROVERSIAL LAGOS COUNCIL LAW

The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, has reportedly berated the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, over the contentious 2024 Lagos State Local Council Administration Law sent to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for assent.

Visibly upset, President Tinubu questioned Obasa’s qualifications to draft laws that could destabilize the political harmony in Lagos State. He repeatedly scolded the Speaker for his perceived individualistic approach to state matters and his confrontational stance toward the state executive, the party, and its elders.

A stunned Obasa was reportedly left speechless as Tinubu lambasted him for his alleged political misconduct and defiance toward the party, its leaders, and the governor. The President emphasized that matters concerning local government laws were beyond Obasa and the House of Assembly at this stage. Tinubu directed the Speaker to align with Governor Sanwo-Olu's directives, particularly regarding the screening, approval, and confirmation of board members for the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC).

Obasa was further instructed to comply with other instructions that would be communicated to him in the future.

The incident comes after Obasa, during the Lagos State 2025 budget presentation, boasted that no serving or former Lagos State governor was better qualified than him to oversee the state, which boasts the fourth-largest economy in Africa. His assertion, seen as a direct indictment of President Tinubu, who governed Lagos from 1999 to 2007, also highlighted his ambition to run for Lagos State Governor in 2027.

The controversial 2024 Local Government Administration Law has been widely criticized as a tool for Obasa to install his loyalists as administrative secretaries in the 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). This move is viewed as part of his 2027 gubernatorial agenda, branded as the "Muda Eko, Obasa Lagos 2027 Agenda" under The Mudashiru Movement (TMM). The proposal has reportedly caused divisions within the APC in Lagos State.

Credit: Iyen Na Nice

IBADAN STAMPEDE: SANWO-OLU SYMPATHIES WITH MAKINDE, VICTIMS FAMILIES Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has s...
21/12/2024

IBADAN STAMPEDE: SANWO-OLU SYMPATHIES WITH MAKINDE, VICTIMS FAMILIES

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sympathised with his Oyo State counterpart, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the people of Oyo State over the tragic stampede that occurred during a children’s carnival at Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, which claimed 35 lives.

The Governor also extended his condolences to the families who lost their loved ones during the sad incident.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a condolence letter he personally signed and addressed to Governor Seyi Makinde titled "Letter of Condolence - Christmas Stampede Tragedy", described the incident as devastating and offered prayers for the families affected by the tragedy.

He said the heartbreaking incident has cast a shadow of grief and mourning not only over Oyo State but across Nigeria.

"It is with profound sorrow that I write to express my heartfelt condolences to you, the government, and the people of Oyo State over the tragic loss of 35 young lives during the Christmas funfair stampede that occurred on December 18, 2024, in Ibadan. This heartbreaking incident, which also left several children injured, has cast a shadow of grief and mourning not only over Oyo State but across Nigeria.

"The circumstances surrounding this tragedy—children gathering with the hope of joy, relief, and celebration—make the loss all the more devastating. The scale of this loss, compounded by the innocence and vulnerability of those affected, is deeply painful.

"I cannot begin to imagine the depth of pain felt by the families of the victims and by the wider Oyo State community.

"On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I extend our deepest sympathies to you and to all those who are grieving. We share in your sorrow and stand with you during this difficult time. I also wish to express our solidarity with the families of the deceased and pray for the swift recovery of those children who remain hospitalised.

"May the Almighty grant the families of the departed the strength to bear this irreparable loss and provide solace to your administration as you work to bring healing to the people of Oyo State," Governor Sanwo-Olu stated.

SANWO-OLU PERFORMS GROUNDBREAKING OF 2,200 POLICE HOUSING UNITS•New facility will improve welfare of officers, enhance s...
19/12/2024

SANWO-OLU PERFORMS GROUNDBREAKING OF 2,200 POLICE HOUSING UNITS
•New facility will improve welfare of officers, enhance security—IGP

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday, performed the groundbreaking of 2,200 Police housing units at Ijeh Police Barracks, Ikoyi, Lagos, in line with his administration's commitment to the welfare of security personnel and safeguarding the lives and properties of the citizens.

He said the housing project, which is in partnership with the Lagos State Government and the Nigeria Police Force, is a step forward in the Government’s efforts toward strengthening the morale and productivity of the security personnel and ensuring that they remain focused on their critical role of keeping Lagos safe.

The project will consist of commercial and residential properties of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, maisonettes and townhouse units with paved roads, drainages, sewage tanks, water treatment plant, street lights, car park and electrification plants, among others.

The modern housing units will feature state-of-the-art facilities, offering comfort, safety, and a conducive environment for the men and women of the Nigeria Police Force and their families.

Speaking during the groundbreaking attended by the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the collaboration brought together the Nigeria Police Force and Lagos State to create a joint venture that aligns public needs with private-sector efficiency and redefines the standard of living for police officers.

He said the redevelopment of the Police Barrack is in tandem with his administration’s wider socio-economic objectives for the development and revitalisation of the State in ensuring that quantitative, decent, affordable residential, industrial and housing units are available for Lagosians in line with his administration’s THEMES+ agenda.

The Governor, who assured that the project would be completed in the next two years to ensure Police officers in Lagos live in a conducive and comfortable environment to discharge their duties efficiently, urged other State governments to emulate the template to rebuild all Police barracks across the country.

He said: "This transformative redevelopment project to provide 2,200 modern housing units at the Ijeh Police Barracks, Obalende, is part of an intervention aimed at bridging the housing deficit and providing modern, safe housing and a conducive living environment for the officers of the Nigeria Police Force and their families all over the country.

"We have been constructing housing units in various locations within the State to enhance our contribution towards the achievement of the Urban Renewal Initiative, and now with the redevelopment of the Nigeria Police Barracks, we are happy that no one will be left behind when it comes to the provision of adequate housing. Addressing this challenge required innovation and partnerships.

"This project reaffirms our commitment to building a Lagos that works for everyone. It is a Lagos where security personnel, who dedicate their lives to our safety, can live together with their families in unity and with dignity and pride."

Governor Sanwo-Olu also commended the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his unwavering commitment to the project and championing welfare reforms for the men and women under his command.

Speaking earlier, the Inspector General of Police, who was excited about the housing project, acknowledged that most Police barracks across the country are in dilapidated states as they were constructed over 50 years ago.

Commending the Lagos State Government for the initiative at boosting the morale of security personnel in the state, Egbetokun expressed optimism that the new Police housing units would motivate officers to serve Lagosians more efficiently with a promise to personally supervise the project.

"The construction of the new barracks, which groundbreaking ceremony is taking place here today in Lagos, is a testament to our commitment to providing our officers with a safe, comfortable, and modern living environment.

"This new facility will not only improve the welfare of our officers but also enhance their ability to serve and protect our community," Egbetokun said.


Also speaking, the Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on e-GIS, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, disclosed that 4,400 Police officers evacuated from the demolished barracks have been compensated and relocated to safe abodes pending when the project is completed.

Pictures: Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu today handed over 250 brand new patrol vehicles, along with essential hardware, co...
19/12/2024

Pictures: Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu today handed over 250 brand new patrol vehicles, along with essential hardware, communication devices, and protective gear, to the police.

The initiative, according to the Governor, represents a significant advancement in the state government’s efforts to strengthen security operations throughout Lagos State.

“Security is vital for maintaining economic stability and community safety, and it remains a top priority for us in Lagos. We are steadfast in our commitment to enhancing safety for all Lagosians,” Sanwo-Olu said at the 18th Town Hall Meeting on Security with the Governor.

“We extend our gratitude to our partners in the private sector for their unwavering support of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) in our mission to ensure safety throughout Lagos,” he said.

President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Lagos State to spend this year’s Christmas and New Year holidays.The President left...
18/12/2024

President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Lagos State to spend this year’s Christmas and New Year holidays.

The President left Abuja for Lagos after he presented the 2025 Appropriation Bill to the joint session of the National Assembly.

He was received by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

First Lady of Nigeria Launches Second Edition of Elderly Support Scheme in Lagos .. Increases cash support from N100,000...
17/12/2024

First Lady of Nigeria Launches Second Edition of Elderly Support Scheme in Lagos
.. Increases cash support from N100,000 to N200,000
.. Disburses N50M to 250 Lagos elders

As the second edition of the annual Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, took place in Lagos on Tuesday, 250 beneficiaries from Lagos have received a support of two hundred thousand naira (₦200,000) each from the initiative.

Addressing participants at the event held at the premises of office of the Hall First Lady of Lagos State, Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, Senator Oluremi Tinubu emphasized the importance of ensuring a "Total Wellness: Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous Lifestyle" for elderly Nigerians.

The First Lady of Nigeria and Chairman of RHI represented at the event by the First Lady of Lagos State and State Coordinator of RHI, explained that the concept of Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS), reaffirms her commitment to improving the welfare of senior citizens through

She noted that the disbursement of ₦200,000 each and other gift items to 250 elderly beneficiaries, aged 65 years and above, represents an increase in the grant from ₦100,000 to ₦200,000 per recipient.

Highlighting the scope of the initiative, Senator Tinubu announced that a total of ₦1.9 billion would be disbursed nationwide as a way of brining joy and comfort during the festive season to the selected beneficiaries.

“I commend all our State First Ladies, RHI State Coordinators, and partners for their efforts in making this day a reality,” she said, adding that the scheme underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of the elderly.

The First Lady encouraged the beneficiaries to maintain their health by eating nutritious food, staying hydrated, engaging in light physical activities, and spending quality time with loved ones.

“As we celebrate this festive season, I urge you to prioritize your health, do what makes you happy, and enjoy this special time with family and friends,” she advised.

The Elderly Support Scheme is part of the Renewed Hope Initiative, spearheaded by the First Lady of Nigeria, to address the needs of vulnerable groups across Nigeria.

In supporting the initiative, the First Lady of Lagos State in partnership with the Lagos State Health Management, LASHMA registered the beneficiaries for one year free healthcare services in any hospitals registered wri the agency.

The beneficiaries were also educated about LASHMA, how to manage their health and were also screened for Blood Pressure, Eye tests among others.

While reiterating her unwavering dedication to the welfare of Nigerians,
the First Lady extended her best wishes for the holiday season and a prosperous 2025 to the elders and everyone in general.

Responding to the gesture by the First Lady of Nigeria and the First Lady of Lagos State, one of the beneficiaries, Alhajah Mojisola Aduke Alabi expressed gratitude for the financial and medical support, which she described as a lifeline during challenging times.

She appreciated the First Lady, Nigeria, Sen.Oluremi Tinubu for her unwavering commitment and support to the Elderly, noting that the Renewed Hope Initiative of her office have been beneficial to the vulnerable ones and the general public.

LAGOS FIRST LADY FLAGS OFF ANNUAL FREE HEALTH PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN, OTHERSLagos State First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana I...
17/12/2024

LAGOS FIRST LADY FLAGS OFF ANNUAL FREE HEALTH PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN, OTHERS

Lagos State First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, on Monday officially flagged off the Year 2024 Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health Plus Nutrition (MNCAH+N) Week at the Shomolu Local Government Area of the state.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu stated that the annual MNCAH+N Week is a commendable initiative by the government aimed at promoting the health and well-being of mothers, children under five, adolescents, and individuals of reproductive age.

She emphasized that the program focuses on delivering high-impact, cost-effective health interventions that improve lives and mitigate future health risks.

According to her, the MNCAH+N Week is not just an annual event but a powerful reminder of the significance of adopting healthy lifestyles to prevent communicable and non-communicable diseases.

She listed key services that would be provided during the week to include: Screening and management of malnutrition, Vitamin A supplementation for children under five to prevent night blindness and boost immunity, Free antenatal and postnatal care for pregnant and nursing mothers, Family planning services, and Comprehensive reproductive health services for adolescents and youths, among others.


+NWeek

AGAIN, GOV. SANWO-OLU COMMISSIONS NEWLY BUILT NETWORK OF ROADS (BABAFEMI DADA WITH BRIDGE – YINKA FOLARIN – JAMIU LAWAL ...
16/12/2024

AGAIN, GOV. SANWO-OLU COMMISSIONS NEWLY BUILT NETWORK OF ROADS (BABAFEMI DADA WITH BRIDGE – YINKA FOLARIN – JAMIU LAWAL – SHALOM ACADEMY) IN ALIMOSHO, ON MONDAY, 16TH DECEMBER 2024

Kemi, it's time to sheath your swordBy Olabode Opeseitan The raging controversy over the statement attributed to Kemi Ba...
14/12/2024

Kemi, it's time to sheath your sword
By Olabode Opeseitan

The raging controversy over the statement attributed to Kemi Badenoch, the Nigerian-British leader of the Conservative Party, where she expressed her pride in her Yoruba roots and was highly critical of Nigeria, is needless and unhelpful.

Rather than simmering down, it's getting worse. Neither the intervention by Vice President Kashim Shettima nor Kemi's doubling down on her criticism of Nigeria has helped to douse the rage.

I fervently believe that Kemi, like any other person in the world, reserves the right to her views.

However, I do not believe that she should paint an entire region with the same broad brush. The existence of Boko Haram in the northern part of Nigeria does not mean that the majority of Northerners support it or believe in their myopic and ill-conceived ideology.

Boko Haram does not represent nor define the North. Many Northerners have fallen victim to the viciousness of the terrorists. Many Northerners and Northern leaders have fought against it. It is therefore unfair to castigate the entire region because of the misadventures of some miscreants.

Secondly, as a leader, Kemi needs to be more broad-minded, even though we all know she shoots straight and speaks her mind.

She has spoken out against the injustices she suffered growing up in Nigeria. The government of the day is trying to fix some of the endemic issues, even though it is still a long shot to the desired country where everything works.

It's time for Kemi, and indeed any other person who harbours deep resentment against Nigeria, to heal from their wounds and play a constructive role in helping to navigate the country to the path of growth and greatness.

Elders should reach out to Kemi and encourage her to tread the path of reconciliation and collaboration. She did well when she visited Nigeria as British Trade Secretary in February this year.

Leadership is about healing, forgiveness, and the reconstruction of minds and institutions.

The hardline posturing of Kemi and some Nigerian government officials will serve no one any good.








16 Days of Activism: Lagos First Lady Engages Pupils of Wesley School for the Hearing Impaired..Urges Parents, Teachers ...
10/12/2024

16 Days of Activism: Lagos First Lady Engages Pupils of Wesley School for the Hearing Impaired
..Urges Parents, Teachers to Be Observant of Children’s Sexual Reactions

As the campaign marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence ended on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, paid a special visit to Wesley School for the Hearing Impaired in Surulere where she engaged the pupils and emphasized the importance of safeguarding children against all forms of abuse.

During her interaction with the cheerful pupils, Dr. Sanwo-Olu underscored the inclusive governance philosophy of the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, which prioritizes the protection of vulnerable children, including those with disabilities.

She commended the staff and management of Wesley School for their dedication to providing quality education for children with hearing impairments and encouraged them to remain vigilant in identifying and addressing any signs of abuse among the pupils.

The First Lady stressed the importance of being observant of children’s sexual behaviors and reactions, highlighting these as potential indicators of abuse or distress.

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

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

She reiterated that the Lagos State Government has zero tolerance for all forms of abuse and reassured the pupils of the state’s commitment to their safety and well-being.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Surulere Local Government, Hon. Bamidele Sulaiman, reaffirmed his dedication to strengthening policies and initiatives that protect children, women, and vulnerable groups across the council and beyond.

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

The visit featured engaging activities, including an advocacy talk led by Pamela Stephen from the Centre for Women’s Health and Information, who spoke extensively on “Understanding Sexual and Gender-Based Violence: A School-Based Sensitization Program.”

Speaking on “Strategies to Prevent Sexual and Gender-Based Violence – Practical Help and Support,” the facilitator emphasized the importance of providing children with a list of trusted contacts, such as family members, neighbors, or friends. She also advised teaching children a safe word or gesture they can use to signal emergencies or the need for help.

The Principal of Wesley School 1, Mrs. Elizabeth Popoola, highlighted the school's commitment to providing excellent free qualitative education and vocational training for children at the nursery, primary, and secondary school levels.

She noted that any deaf child above three years old is eligible for registration and admission into the school. Mrs. Popoola also called on philanthropists and individuals passionate about serving humanity to extend their support to the school.

The visit concluded with the signing of a dedicated pledge board by the pupils and dignitaries, symbolizing their collective resolve to continue advocating for an end to sexual and gender-based violence.

Among the dignitaries who welcomed the First Lady were the wife of the council chairman, the vice chairman of the council, the board secretary of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, the education secretary of Surulere, and directors in charge of special education.

SANWO-OLU COMMISSIONS ABIOLA-ONIJEMO LINK ROAD WITH BRIDGE TO CONNECT COMMUNITIES •Says administration is committed to a...
09/12/2024

SANWO-OLU COMMISSIONS ABIOLA-ONIJEMO LINK ROAD WITH BRIDGE TO CONNECT COMMUNITIES

•Says administration is committed to addressing long-standing challenges faced by Lagos residents



Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday commissioned the Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with a bridge in the Ifako Ijaiye Local Government Area of the State.

The Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with bridge provides a strategic connection linking the Abiola/Ajayi/Ogba and Obawole/Iju-Ishaga communities, which are separated by a 25-meter swamp belt. The project covers a total length of 643 meters, including a 135-meter reinforced concrete bridge with retaining walls.

The infrastructure features 7.3-meter-wide carriageways, alongside slip roads, walkways, and solar-powered street lighting—all representing state-of-the-art infrastructure tailored to meet the needs of a growing population. It also has a drainage system that addresses long-standing flooding challenges, safeguarding the surrounding communities from adverse effects of poor water management.

Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with a bridge is one of the 36 newly constructed roads and bridges scheduled for commissioning by the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration.

Speaking during the formal commissioning of the project at Ifako-Ijaiye, Governor Sanwo-Olu, who earlier handed over to the public the newly constructed Alapere Pedestrian Bridge, built by his administration, said the Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with a bridge embodies his administration’s commitment to addressing long-standing challenges faced by the people of Lagos State.

He said: "Today marks a significant milestone in our collective journey to build sustainable communities, improve connectivity, and enhance the quality of life for all Lagosians. It is with immense pride and joy that we unveil the Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with Bridge, a vital infrastructure project that links Abiola Street and Onijemo Street, separated for decades by a canal that created a divide between these two vibrant communities.

"This project embodies our administration’s commitment to keeping our promises and addressing long-standing challenges faced by the people of Lagos State. If you recall, during our campaigns, we pledged to tackle issues of inadequate infrastructure and persistent flooding, challenges that have plagued this area for years. Today, we deliver on that promise.

"Before now, crossing between Abiola and Onijemo Streets was both difficult and unsafe. Pedestrians had to navigate a wooden bridge over a swamp, which exposed them to danger and was an environmental eyesore. These conditions were unacceptable. Our administration recognised the urgency of providing a lasting solution, which led to the construction of this modern reinforced concrete bridge, complete with pedestrian and vehicular access, as well as a new, well-paved link road and an upgraded drainage network to prevent flooding."

Speaking on the importance of the project to the people of Ifako-Ijaiye, Governor Sanwo-Olu said: "This project is not just about building roads and bridges. It is about connecting lives, fostering unity, and stimulating economic growth. With these improvements, residents and businesses can now enjoy safer, faster, and more efficient movement. Reduced travel time and better access to other parts of the city will undoubtedly bring new opportunities for trade, commerce, and investment into this community.

"This achievement aligns with the goals of our THEMES+ Agenda, particularly under the Transportation and Traffic Management Pillar, and underscores our determination to deliver impactful projects despite global economic challenges and rising costs. We remain unwavering in our commitment to improving lives and providing the dividends of democracy to all Lagosians."

Governor Sanwo-Olu urged Lagos residents, particularly the people of Abiola and Onijemo Streets, to take ownership of the infrastructure built by the government. "These are your assets, built with our collective resources, and it is your responsibility to protect and maintain them. Community leaders and associations must ensure these facilities are used responsibly to preserve their quality and longevity. A well-maintained infrastructure inspires further development, and your active involvement will encourage the government to do even more.

"I thank Lagosians for their steadfast support, particularly through the prompt payment of taxes. Your contributions make transformative projects like this possible, and we deeply value the trust you have placed in us.

"As we work together to achieve the vision of a Greater Lagos, I assure you that this administration remains focused, resilient, and committed to building a state that works for everyone."

Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Engr. Olufemi Daramola, said the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration has shown a persistent commitment and responsibility towards the delivery of strategic link roads not only in Ifako-Ijaiye but in many other parts of the state, as would be witnessed in the coming days.

Daramola, who appreciated her predecessor, Engr. Aramide Adeyoye, for her insight and dedication, which laid a solid foundation for the project, commended the residents of Ifako-Ijaiye for their patience and cooperation, which, according to him, was vital to the project's success.

He said: "The Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with a bridge is more than just a physical connection; it is a lifeline for multiple communities. The road spans a swampy terrain, connecting College Road through Ajayi Street in Ogba to Aruna, Obawole and Iju-Ishaga. The vital connection will significantly enhance vehicular movement, reduce travel times and stimulate local commerce.

"The Abiola-Onijemo Link Road and Bridge bring substantial socio-economic benefits by enhancing traffic flow and connectivity, increasing property values and investment opportunities, and improving public safety through the provision of street lighting."

The Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Desmond Elliot, commended the Governor Sanwo-Olu administration's giant strides in the State.

Elliot, who also represented the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, said the incumbent administration would not relent in delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Lagos State.

Speaking earlier, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Ifako-Ijaiye I, Hon. Temitope Adewale, disclosed that the Governor Sanwo-Olu administration has delivered 29 roads in Ifako-Ijaiye. He said the people of his constituency appreciate the state government for laudable projects in different communities within the local government.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area, Hon. Usman Hamzat, said the Abiola-Onijemo Link Road with a bridge and other projects initiated by the Governor Sanwo-Olu administration is in fulfilment of the THEMES+ developmental agenda.

He said Governor Sanwo-Olu has set a benchmark for good governance in Lagos State.

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