Lagos House Of Reps Member Oke-Joe Accused Of Sidelining Yorubas In Empowerment Programmes, In Favour Of Igbos

The Federal House of Representatives Member representing Oshodi-Isolo II, Lagos State, Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, has come under intense criticism after publishing the list of people in his constituency who have benefitted from his empowerment scheme.

Onuakalusi, a non-native and non-Yoruba, who got elected on the platform of Labour Party in 2023, is accused of empowering people of his Igbo ethnicity, while sidelining the Yoruba indigenes.

According to the allegation, his programmes sponsored 20 participants to China to study cyber Security , food processing, and artificial intelligence, among others. Another programme sent nine participants to South Africa to study nursing and diabetic care. It is alleged that, of the 29 participants, 24 are Igbos while the Yoruba participants are five.

Social media users have also questioned the authenticity of the Yoruba names, highlighting that some appeared to be poorly constructed or fabricated with AI. They specifically pointed to the inclusion of "Samuel Ajayi Crowther"—the name of the 19th-century missionary—as evidence that the list was not legitimate, alleging it was generated by AI.

The lopsidedness in the empowerment scheme has generated outrage from social media users, who lamented that Yoruba youths are being sidelined in their own state by a non-native in political power.

Reacting, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Lagos State, Wale Ajetunmobi, rubbished the empowerment scheme, with a post on X, saying, “This is utterly abominable. Marginalisation is not an accurate word to describe this; it’s outright ostracism. Haaa… a ti gba àbọ̀dè fun’ra wa.”

Sanwo-Olu’s aide also slammed a comment justifying the scheme, which claimed that the non-Yoruba majority favoured in the scheme deserved it because they are also Nigerians.

Ajetunmobi said, “So, the lopsided empowerment is fair game to you? You sick people are usually loud in criticising Tinubu for appointing Yoruba people to Federal positions but conveniently forget that the president has been appointing Nigerians. Now, a non-native Reps used resources meant for a Yoruba constituency to substantially empower his own kinsmen. Then, the beneficiaries suddenly became ‘Nigerians’. You silly idiots shift narrative conveniently just to look good before those marginalising your kinsmen in your land. O tin shiere.”

Say no to tribalism – Rep Onuakalusi

Also reacting, popular blogger, Japhet Omojuwa, described lawmaker Onuakalusi’s action as discrimination and a slap on his constituents.

@Omojuwa said, “This is a self-indicting post and a big slap on your constituency. That you didn’t even have enough self-awareness, to post this makes me wonder what other forms of latent and blatant discrimination are going on against the people you were voted to represent.”

  

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Lagos Clears Pension Obligation To 668 Retirees With N1.126 Billion

The Lagos State Pension Commission has cleared another batch of retirement benefits for former public servants, extending a pension reform programme that

Nigeria’s commercial capital has used to position itself as one of the country’s more consistent administrators of post-service welfare obligations.

The latest disbursement, announced during the 114th Batch Retirement Bond Certificate Presentation Ceremony in Lagos over the weekend, covered 668 retirees

owed accrued pension rights from before the state adopted the Contributory Pension Scheme in 2007.

LASPEC said N1.126bn was released under the exercise, underscoring the Lagos State Government’s effort to sustain pension payments despite mounting fiscal pressures and rising living costs.

For Lagos, the payments form part of a broader strategy to maintain confidence in a pension framework designed to reduce the delays and funding gaps that

have historically plagued retirement administration in many Nigerian states.

Director-General of LASPEC, Babalola Obilana, said the latest batch reinforces the government’s commitment to protecting the welfare and financial security

of retired workers.

“The 114th batch joins the growing number of retirees who have received their benefits, reinforcing our promise of financial security to public servants,”

Obilana said.

Nigeria introduced the contributory pension system as part of wider reforms aimed at replacing the largely unsustainable defined benefits model under which governments frequently accumulated unpaid pension liabilities. Under the revised framework, employers and employees contribute to retirement savings accounts

managed by licensed pension fund administrators.

Implementation has varied widely across Nigeria’s 36 states, with several still grappling with unpaid pension arrears, delayed remittances and administrative

bottlenecks. Lagos, however, has consistently sought to distinguish itself through periodic retirement bond disbursements and a more structured pension

management process.

Obilana described the state’s pension framework as one of the most efficient in the country, attributing the performance to coordination between LASPEC,

pension fund administrators, annuity service providers and other stakeholders involved in benefit processing.

The state has increasingly relied on scheduled retirement bond payments to settle obligations owed to workers who retired before the contributory system

came into effect. Those accrued rights remain a major challenge for many subnational governments already strained by weak revenues, rising debt servicing

costs and inflation-driven expenditure pressures.

Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub, benefits from one of the country’s strongest internally generated revenue bases and has continued to channel resources towards infrastructure, transportation, healthcare and pension administration as part of broader governance reforms.

The latest payout comes at a time when inflationary pressures continue to squeeze household incomes across the country, leaving many retirees particularly exposed to rising costs of food, housing and healthcare.

Analysts say consistent pension payments are becoming increasingly significant as economic reforms, including subsidy removals and currency liberalisation, continue to reshape consumer spending and living conditions nationwide.

LASPEC also said it has intensified capacity-building programmes for pension desk officers, directors and administrative staff across ministries, departments

and agencies to improve efficiency in pension documentation and processing.

  

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Carter Bridge To Be Demolished And Reconstructed With N548 Billion - FG

The Federal Government has approved the complete demolition and reconstruction of the Carter Bridge in Lagos at a cost of N548.98 billion.

The approval came after independent investigations confirmed that the iconic structure’s underwater piles and pile caps had deteriorated beyond repair.

The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, announced the approval after Thursday’s Federal Executive Council meeting.

Umahi said the decision followed investigations conducted at multiple points in 2013, 2019 and again under the current administration through Julius Berger, all of which concluded that the bridge could not be saved.

“We convocated a stakeholders’ engagement, and all the technical experts all over the country, and even internationally, all agreed that we could not redeem Carter Bridge, and it has to be completely demolished and rebuilt,” Umahi said.

He explained that the underwater piles and pile caps had deteriorated at what he described as a “geometrical progression,” leaving demolition and full reconstruction as the only viable option.

The contract was won by CCCC after a competitive bidding process that included Julius Berger, CCECC, CBC, and China Harbour High Tech.

Umahi said the new bridge would be longer than the original, with the total length extended from 1.525 kilometres to 1.93 kilometres following the addition of a flyover ramp designed to eliminate the bottleneck that has long plagued traffic flow in the area.

“We’ve gone through rigorous procurement and design. The initial total length of that bridge was 1.525 kilometres, with three lanes, dualised. We have now increased the project to 1.93 kilometres because we increased a flyover ramp, so that the bottleneck that is usually there will no longer exist. The total contract sum approved is N548.98bn,” he said.

The new bridge will also feature a navigational waterway of 105 metres by two, according to the minister.

The FEC also separately approved N24.89 billion for underwater elements of the Third Mainland Bridge, to be handled by Julius Berger, among projects being readied for commissioning ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office on May 29.

The Carter Bridge is one of Lagos’s oldest and most historically significant bridges, serving as a critical link between Lagos Island and the mainland.

Named after Gilbert Carter, a former British governor of Lagos Colony, the bridge has been a vital artery for traffic across Lagos Lagoon for decades.

The bridge has been the subject of recurring concerns about its structural integrity, with authorities periodically restricting heavy vehicle access and carrying out patch repairs over the years.

Its deterioration has been widely attributed to age, heavy traffic load and the corrosive effects of its saltwater environment on its foundational infrastructure.

  

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Lagos To Deploy Electric Ferries, Integrate Water, Rail And Road Transportation For Better Mobility In The State

Lagos State government has announced an ambitious plan to transform water transportation in the state through the deployment of electric ferries, expansion of inland waterways, and seamless integration with road and rail systems under a five-year mobility programme.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, disclosed this while hosting members of the Shipping Correspondent Association of Nigeria (SCAN), led by its President, Moses Ebosele, in Lagos.

Emmanuel, who also supervises the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), said the initiative will include dredging about 140 kilometres of inland waterways, upgrading terminals, and strengthening operational capacity across the sector.

He explained that the project is designed to provide commuters with viable alternatives to road transport and reduce traffic congestion in the state, describing it as the first time Lagos is attracting large-scale investment dedicated solely to water transport.

“The goal is to build an efficient, interconnected system linking the eastern, western, and central parts of Lagos,” he said, adding that the government will prioritise training across the value chain, including boat operators, captains, deckhands, and regulatory agencies, while ensuring the informal sector is not excluded.

A key highlight of the initiative, according to him, is the transition to cleaner energy.
He revealed that pilot schemes for electric ferries have recorded success, while efforts are ongoing to convert conventional engines to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative energy source.

Addressing concerns over fares, Emmanuel noted that water transport remains more expensive than road travel due to higher operational costs, but offers commuters shorter travel times and relief from traffic congestion.

To enhance connectivity, he said the state is developing major transport interchanges in locations such as Mile 2 and Marina, where water, rail, and bus services will converge for seamless mobility.

He added that safety on the waterways has improved significantly, with a decline in accidents attributed to proactive measures, infrastructure investment, and sustained engagement with operators.

Monthly passenger traffic, he said, is currently estimated at between 1.5 million and 2 million users.

On environmental sustainability, Emmanuel highlighted ongoing efforts to tackle marine pollution, particularly plastic waste, through collaboration with environmental agencies and non-governmental organisations. He also noted initiatives to manage water hyacinth by converting it into useful products such as craft materials and agricultural inputs.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to stakeholder engagement to ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector, noting that the initiative aligns with broader efforts to unlock Lagos’ blue economy potential.

In his remarks, Ebosele urged LASWA to deepen collaboration with the media, stressing that such partnerships would enhance public awareness and promote greater engagement, especially among rural communities.

  

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Lagos Partners Generating Companies To Boost Electricity Supply In The State

The Lagos State Government has signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with three electricity generating companies as part of efforts to improve power supply across the state.

The agreement was signed at the Lagos House, Marina, in the presence of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, with the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Abiodun Ogunleye, signing on behalf of the state.

The firms involved include Mainland Power Limited, Akute Independent Power Plant and Fenchurch Power Limited, with the latter joining as a new partner.

Speaking after the signing, Sanwo-Olu urged all parties to uphold the terms of the agreement, stressing the need for commitment and professionalism to ensure the success of the projects.

“This agreement is about the people and how easily we can solve problems. Let’s keep promises from both sides. When people benefit, it makes life easier. This is the beginning of reforms we are seeing in the energy sector,” the governor said.

Ogunleye described the deal as a strategic move to boost power generation and revitalise dormant assets, adding that it would provide reliable electricity to residents.

According to him, the three companies currently have a combined generation capacity of about 60 megawatts (MW), which is projected to scale up to between 200MW and 400MW within the next two to three years.

He noted that the expansion would be achieved through competitive market operations without placing additional financial burden on the state.

The commissioner explained that Mainland Power Limited, which operates the Ikeja GRA plant, has an installed capacity of 8.8MW and a contracted capacity of 5.8MW, supplying electricity to areas from Ikeja to Oshodi, including critical infrastructure such as the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) and the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA).

He added that the Akute Independent Power Plant, now to be managed by Fenchurch Power Limited, has a contracted capacity of 26MW and is being repositioned as a major energy hub.

The plant, which had been dormant for about five years, is undergoing rehabilitation and upgrade and is expected to supply power to surrounding communities, including the Adiyan Water Works.

For the Island axis, Ogunleye said the Island Power Limited/Peninsula Integrated Power Project, operated by Viathan Engineering, has a combined installed capacity of 21MW, comprising 6MW in Lekki and 15MW in Marina.

He said the facility would provide electricity to key public infrastructure, including the Lagos State Government House, the Deputy Governor’s residence, Lagos Island General Hospital and Lagos Island Maternity Hospital.

The partner companies commended the Sanwo-Olu administration for its infrastructure drive, noting that the initiative sends positive signals to investors about Lagos as a viable destination for energy sector investment.

  

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"Yes, Lagos Can Handle 13,000 Tonnes Of Daily Wastes - Tokunbo Wahab

In this interview with UTHMAN SALAMI, the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, addresses pressing environmental challenges, including the planned $48m waterworks rehabilitation project, waste management and air pollution in the state

Some 2025 reports raised concerns about the quality of water supply in parts of Lagos Island, including Itafaji, Onola, and Adeniji Adele, noting that though the water may appear clean, it could contain hidden contaminants. What is your reaction to that?

In our waterworks, namely Iju, Shasi, and Adiyan, it bears stating that the capacity may not be enough to serve the entire state because Lagos has grown exponentially in the past few years. One of the areas we are servicing is Lagos Island, and I know we have addressed the challenge you raised. However, it is not actually about the quality of the water; it is about the way the water is supplied to those localities. What we have done differently is install new pipes. Previously, people had to take their buckets or other containers to collect water, sometimes even from drainage channels, because the pipes that existed were old. Many of them had been destroyed, cut, or mutilated. So, we had to do a lot of new piping. The water we supply, I can assure Lagosians, is 100 per cent clean and fully treated before it is discharged from our waterworks for public supply. Therefore, those concerns, with due respect, are no longer valid.

Talking about the piping and infrastructure, we have not been seeing the ministry laying pipes across the state. Why is that?

It is not the ministry (that does this) directly; it is the Lagos State Water Corporation, which is one of the major agencies under the ministry. What they have done differently is that they cannot carry out pipe replacements statewide all at once. Instead, the first thing they did was deploy a robot to inspect the pipes to identify leakages and determine which pipes needed replacement. In other words, they conducted an audit of the materials and infrastructure. After that process, they began determining what could realistically be addressed within the budget cycle. Water infrastructure is massive. The first waterworks that ran from Iju to Lagos Island was built over 100 years ago, even before the amalgamation of Nigeria. The Iju Waterworks itself dates back to 1895 or 1896, and the pipes ran from there to Lagos Island. Over the years, those pipes became very old and experienced major leakages. What has been done over time is to repair, replace, and fix sections. What the agency has now decided to do differently is to handle repairs in clusters. For example, they replaced pipes between the Alexander Waterworks in Ikoyi, which supplies the whole of Ikoyi, and Parkview Estate. I personally visited the site impromptu to see the work being done recently. That is how the clusters operate. Once one cluster is completed, they move to the next, based on the audit results.

 

There is hardly any residence in Lagos without a borehole or well. What is the government doing to reduce dependence on private boreholes and wells?

Scientifically, we cannot continue to sustain heavy reliance on boreholes because of the pressure it puts on the aquifer. That is why the government is investing heavily in water infrastructure. Some months ago, the state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and members of the executive team visited the Adiyan Waterworks, which is currently undergoing massive investment. This was the second time the governor has visited during this administration, which shows how serious the government is about the project. There are two waterworks there. The main one, when fully operational, is expected to produce 70 million gallons of water per day. The first step in the project involves sourcing raw water from the Ogun River, which is about 8.3 kilometres away from the waterworks. The government had to secure the right of way from the Ogun State Government before laying massive pipes from the river to the waterworks. That stage has already been completed. The next phase involves mechanical and electrical installations, which are currently ongoing. This stage requires significant financial investment from the government. After that, the next major stage is reticulation, which is the distribution network that will deliver water to residents. We also need to address the issue of water policy. In many societies, people still see water and waste management as purely social services that should be free. However, globally, people pay for water services. We must eventually find a way to meter usage and charge minimal fees, no matter how small, so the system can be sustainable. Investors are already showing interest in participating in this large water infrastructure project, and the Lagos Water Corporation is handling those engagements. Additionally, the state has signed what is known as a WASH policy — Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene policy — which signals to the global community that Lagos is ready for investment in the water sector. Previously, USAID approved about $48 million to refurbish some mini and micro waterworks in the state. However, changes in the U.S. government slowed down that process. Meanwhile, projects like the Akilo Waterworks in Agege, supported by WaterAid, are already operational. Residents there can access water using token cards, paying only for the quantity they consume. This is the model Lagos intends to expand. Development does not happen overnight; it requires careful planning and execution.

Realistically, when should Lagos residents expect improved water supply across the state?

The projection from the governor and the government is that before the end of the administration, the Adiyan Phase II Waterworks should be fully operational. Once Adiyan II produces 70 million gallons daily, combined with Shasi, Adiyan I, and 48 mini and micro waterworks, Lagos will significantly increase its daily water production capacity. However, even that may still not completely meet demand. But it will greatly reduce reliance on boreholes, which are affecting the aquifer. The government is pushing to achieve this by next year, and you are welcome to visit the Adiyan II project site to see the progress being made.

Lagos reportedly generates about 13,000 tonnes of waste daily. Do you believe the current waste management system can handle this volume?

I believe 100 per cent that it can. The real problem is not the Private Sector Participation (PSP) waste collection structure; the challenge lies in the behaviour and responsibility of residents. Waste management is largely about culture. For example, where I live, waste collection happens every Wednesday. So we prepare our waste and place it outside the gate for pickup the night before. The process has three stages: collection from households, transportation to landfills, and final disposal. However, Lagos is transitioning away from a system where waste is simply dumped in landfills to one where waste becomes a resource. For instance, Lagos has an agreement with ZoomLion, which will process about 4,000 tonnes of waste daily. Instead of going to landfills, the waste will be taken to transfer loading stations and material recovery plants, where it will be converted into fertiliser and recyclable plastics. Another company from the Netherlands has also signed an agreement to process 2,500 tonnes daily for energy generation. Combined, these initiatives will remove about 6,000 tonnes of waste daily from landfills. Additionally, Lafarge takes combustible waste to power its cement factories. When all these systems operate fully, the volume of waste reaching landfills will reduce significantly, minimising the environmental impact. To answer your question conclusively, the system will work, but we need to rejig it. Rejig it in a way that will make those businessmen have a commensurate income from their businesses. There must also be a balance where LAWMA is doing much more to support them. Thirdly, regarding the open flank of the new waste landfills that we are opening up around Epe, Okeosho, and then EriKete at Badagry, we must find a way to put the proper infrastructure in place to make it attractive for the PSP operators to be able to access them. In the past few weeks, if you want to be fair to this government, things have improved. Because we have also started telling them that if they cannot do the work, they will be taken off. They will be given a query, and then they will be taken off. LAWMA has also had to double up its clearing capacity. That’s why you’ve seen a lot of improvement. But we are not even asking some questions. Why are people taking waste from their homes and dropping it on the median? Is it fair to the state? We wake up at times and see them come with very beautiful, fanciful vehicles. We have arrested them several times. I am a man who believes there must be consequences for bad behaviour, and that’s why I take them to court. We have prosecuted over 4,000 to 5,000 people in the past 12 months—prosecuted and taken them to court.

Residents say they obey the law by packing their waste and bringing it to their gates, but PSP operators sometimes do not come. What is the government doing about this?

Now, that’s why I said call out LAWMA. Call out the PSP operators. They have their numbers. I can show you my phone. I can show you that at times I receive over 50 complaints. But that was at the peak. Now, maybe about three or four from different parts of the state.

My responsibility is that I will never change my telephone number. It’s the number I’ve used for pver 20 years, and I’ll keep it. I will respond to you. Sorry about this, MD LAWMA; kindly cut this and treat it as a request. That’s what governance and leadership are about. We cannot get there overnight. If it could happen in Birmingham last year, another county in London is going through the same thing now. It’s a global challenge. How do you explain people waking up, leaving their houses, and going to urinate or defecate on the median? We have to enforce the law consistently and take them to court. That’s why the Lagos end of the median is clean. Are we going to get there overnight? I’ll tell you no. Are we going to get there eventually? I’ll tell you 100 per cent yes. It’s a journey and a process. Kigali, the US, and the UK did not get there overnight. They got there because they chose to enforce their laws. Are we going to have difficult moments? Yes. But we have to keep pushing for the best.

The state government has talked for years about upgrading and rehabilitating landfills. What is the current status of the planned rehabilitation of major landfills such as Olusosun and Solous?

As I mentioned, we are opening up EriKete at Badagry and Okeosho at the moment. The objective is to decommission Olusosun and Solous. But until the new sites are fully functional, you cannot decommission the old ones. It is an 18-month project. We will decommission them fully and cap them. That is part of the agreement we have with ZoomLion.

When will the project be completed?

It is 18 months from the day they start work.

Have they started work?

The House (of Assembly) just passed the agreement last week, or they will pass it next week—I’m not entirely sure.

Residents in places like Ikorodu and Lekki complain about flooding. What is the government doing about it?

When it comes to flooding, let me give you the facts. I resumed two years ago, and with data we have progressively reduced the incidence of flash flooding. If you are familiar with Lekki and its history, much of Lekki is reclaimed swamp land. That means it is surrounded by water bodies. Lagos is a coastal state, and in a coastal state you will experience flash flooding. Some parts of Lagos are even below sea level. What we have done differently is provide infrastructure that enables water to discharge properly. Lagos Island is an example—areas like Ojo Giwa, Oroyinyin, and Aroloya. When we resumed, we visited those places wearing rain boots. Two weeks ago, we went again, and we have almost completed the drainage work. But because those areas are below sea level, we also built a pumping station at Ilubirin that can pump three million gallons per hour to discharge water effectively. In places like Kosefe, Ajegunle, and Ogombo, many people have reclaimed land near the lagoon. But we are also ensuring that our Emergency Flood Abatement Gang works around the clock to declog and desilt drainage systems across the state. Because Lagos is bounded by about 186 kilometres of the Atlantic Ocean, when it rains heavily, there will sometimes be a tidal lock. That means rainwater cannot discharge immediately, which causes temporary flooding. Developed countries with the best infrastructure still experience flash flooding. Climate change is also real. That’s why we see excessive heat and rainfall. It has been raining almost all year—December, January, and February. Seasons have changed. But as a state, we keep doing what we must do.

What are the long-term plans to stop people from dumping waste in drainage channels after they have been cleared?

It comes back to what we said earlier: we must take ownership of our environment and public infrastructure. How do you wake up and throw debris into a drainage channel? But we will not make excuses. That’s why we have the Emergency Flood Abatement Gang. Their job is to keep clearing drainage channels. If EFAG can succeed 50 per cent, we will solve half of Lagos’ flooding problems. I can confidently say that flooding incidents have reduced drastically, and we are proud to say that to Lagos residents.

There is another canal near the stadium that residents complain about. What is being done about it?

Yes. Some time ago, it was awarded as an ecological project by the Federal Government. What we are doing is approaching it from both the downstream and upstream sections. The vegetation you see over the canal will be cleared. It has been noted.

Is the state government doing anything to monitor and control air pollution in Lagos?

Yes. We have air-quality monitoring machines installed across the state by LASEPA and its partners. These machines provide daily readings, and LASEPA monitors them 24 hours a day. We also have noise-pollution monitoring machines installed in several areas. Last year, there was a New York Times report about lead pollution around Lagos. When I resumed three years ago, we received a similar report. We told the companies involved that they could not operate in Lagos if they could not meet global environmental standards. They could not comply, so we pushed them out of Lagos, and they moved to Ogun State. We installed air-quality monitoring equipment around the area and continue to monitor it.

Have there been violations, and what actions are taken when pollution levels rise?

If the air-quality machines detect abnormal readings, we alert the community and ask them to take remedial actions immediately. For example, in the smoked fish market in Bariga, the readings were always in the red because of the smoking process. We engaged the traders through advocacy and helped them change their equipment. Today, the situation has improved significantly. That is what it is about—continuous advocacy and engagement. As for noise pollution, I am a Christian from a Muslim background. No religion teaches you to disturb others. You should not disturb people with your religion. We just have to keep promoting a culture of mutual respect.

Culled from The Punch 

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Outrage As Abdulganiyu Obasa Gives Palliative Of 3kg Gas Refill To Agege Residents

Social media users have expressed disappointment at the Chairman of Agege Local Government in Lagos State,
Abdulganiyu Vinod Obasa, following his announcement of a free 3kg cooking gas refill programme for 4,000 residents across the seven wards in Agege.

Obasa announced on X that the gesture is “part of our continued commitment to easing the daily burdens faced by our people.”

The intervention, commencing on Saturday, February 21, 2026, is designed to cushion the impact of rising gas prices, support vulnerable households, and provide immediate, practical relief at the grassroots.

Obasa stated that the slots have been fairly distributed across all seven wards, with designated gas stations assigned to ensure accessibility and inclusiveness.

The exercise will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis, and beneficiaries must bring their personal gas cylinders. Once the allocated slots for a ward are exhausted, the exercise will be concluded at that location.

“This initiative is one of several people-focused programmes we are implementing to improve quality of life, promote cleaner energy use, and demonstrate that governance must be felt where it matters most, in our homes and communities,” Obasa said.

However, the effort was dismissed by netizens who believe it solves nothing for the 4,000 beneficiaries in a local government with an estimated population of 683,600.

An X user, @ReformerOluseun, said, “What social problem will a 3kg gas refill intervention solve in Nigeria in 2026? What will be the long term impact of this programme, and what will be the outcome of such activity?”

@_astalavi_ said, “Provide jobs that will allow citizens not see free 3k gas as a helping hand from the LG. Affording to fill 8.5 gas and above should be the least of Nigerians, but this is Nigeria, this is all the lg chairman’s could come up with.”

@vira9ja said, “Free 3kg gas for 4,000 people sounds nice, but let’s not pretend this isca structural change. This is palliative politics. Good for the families who will benefit? Yes. But first come first served relief for a few thousand in a packed LGA like Agege is a drop in an ocean. Governance should not feel like a weekend giveaway… it should feel like stable prices, steady power, and real economic relief. Do the outreach, fine. But don’t package short-term charity asca long-term solution.”

@proudfada1 said, “Omo! This is the lowest I have seen in recent times. 3kg of gas that can’t go beyond 5/7 days, so what happens afterwards? I’m not disappointed, your dad shared loaf of bread during COVID. One day, when the masses are ready, they will free themselves from dis Nonsense. Enjoy.”

@McDoulous said, “I remembered when Rt Hon Obasa shared bread in Agege, you are sharing 3kg of gas. Why not do something sustainable for your people? After 3kg of gas, enu ma Gbe.”

@realkingnath said, “When are we going to ever come out of palliative government? Sharing 3kg of gas is not good governance; good governance is to tackle whatever makes 3kg of gas not affordable to the residents.”

@simply_adediran said, “Youth are the leaders of tomorrow… Tomorrow is here. Our Agege people deserve at least 3kg of gas. Is this how the Awolowos started? We still have a long way to go. What lasting impact can 3kg of gas provide? That amount is equivalent to N13.2 million gone down the drain. Truly, youth have a role in leadership.”

@Segunomowumi1 said, “When we thought citizens would have a new lease of life, with younger politicians, they are in for the worst. In this age, a politician is thinking of topping cooking gas and is celebrating. You are planning to keep them in perpetual poverty, so they would be useful for the election.”

 

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Lagos Government Engages LASU Students On Housing Administration And Delivery In The State

The Lagos State Government is addressing the challenge of mass housing delivery through innovation and robust public-private partnerships across multiple fronts. The delivery of over 11,000 housing units in nearly seven years under the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is evidence that the housing deficit could be effectively reduced.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, Abdulhafis Toriola, made this known while receiving Master’s students of the Centre for Planning Studies, Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, who visited the Ministry.

The visit was designed to expose the postgraduate students to the realities of housing administration, policy implementation, and service delivery in Lagos State, while reinforcing the value of collaboration between academic institutions and government agencies.

 Represented by the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mr. Akanji Shadare, Toriola, an engineer, commended the students and their lecturers for the initiative and applauded their desire to deepen their understanding of the practical application of academic concepts in the built environment. He emphasized the need for the centre and similar departments within the university to continually share research outputs, innovative ideas, and solutions relevant to housing delivery.

 On housing investment, the General Manager of Lagos Building Investment Company (LBIC), represented by Mrs. Olabisi Funsho-Peters, Head, Mortgage and Credit Department, engaged the students and staff, highlighting the critical role of mortgage institutions in the real estate value chain. She explained that LBIC is an accredited mortgage bank insured by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), providing mortgage loans strictly for housing purposes, with up to 70 per cent financing and repayment tenures of 10 years and above.

 Also addressing the team, the Executive Director, Enterprise Services, Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC), Mr. Adeniyi Aromolaran, outlined the Corporation’s mandate in providing real estate services, including construction, sale, and rental of properties. He clarified, however, that LSDPC does not engage in social housing.

 Earlier, the Programme Coordinator, Centre for Planning Studies, LASU, Professor Aliyu Ibrahim, stated that the visit aimed to provide firsthand insight into how housing policies and data are generated and managed. He identified four key takeaways: understanding how the Ministry coordinates housing provision across public and private sectors; how housing investment is undertaken; the challenges affecting housing delivery; and how housing provision and distribution have evolved in Lagos State.

 In his remarks, the Director of the Centre, Professor Fatai, noted that the Centre, established in 1989, organized the visit to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical experience. He added that the engagement was particularly important, as much of the housing data used in academic institutions was sourced from the Ministry of Housing.

 

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Sanwo-Olu Signs 2026 'Budget Of Shared Prosperity' Into Law

The 2026 Appropriation Bill, tagged the “Budget of Shared Prosperity”, has been signed into law By Gov. Sanwo-Olu. The governor signed the bill into law on Monday, saying it would be implemented accountably by his administration.

Lagos Today Extra! had reported that members of the Lagos House of Assembly approved a budget of about N4.4 trillion, up from the N4.2 trillion presented by the governor in December.

Sanwo-olu who noted that this year’s budget is the last budget his administration will implement fully, expressed hope that residents would be the greatest beneficiaries.

He commended the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, and other lawmakers for their due diligence, maintaining that the Executive and the Legislature would continue to work hand in hand for good governance.

Representative of the Speaker of Lagos Assembly, the Majority Speaker, Noheem Adams, commended Sanwo-olu’s people-oriented policies, saying the budget was well scrutinised by assembly members and was optimistic that it reflects the economic realities for the benefit of Lagosians

Earlier, the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Ope George, said the budget of shared prosperity was designed to accelerate economic growth, deepen infrastructure development, improve the transportation system and maintain fiscal responsibility.

In other news, Governor Sanwo-Olu pledged the Lagos State government’s continued support for the armed forces, whether dead or alive.

Speaking at the parade and laying of wreaths ceremony to commemorate the 2026 armed forces celebration and remembrance day, Sanwo-Olu maintained that the state government appreciates the efforts and commitment of members of the armed forces, and will always be supportive to ensure they do their work in the best of environments.

The governor, represented by his Deputy, Dr Kadril Obafemi Hamzat, stated that the state government supports the armed forces annually and is always ready to do more because the officers and men of the armed forces make many sacrifices to keep the nation secure.

He implored them to keep giving their best and to continue making concerted efforts to secure lives and property, despite the huge challenges they face in doing so.

The governor who led the wreath-laying ceremony also asked for prayers for the armed forces. Others who laid wreaths included the Deputy Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin; the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, represented by Jubril Abdulkareem; the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba; representatives of the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force; the Oba of Lagos; the widow of a fallen hero; and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Moshood Jimoh.

 

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Sustainable Development: Lagos Partners Time For Africa Foundation

The Lagos State Government has expressed commitment to forging a strategic partnership with the international non-governmental organisation, Time for Africa Foundation, to accelerate sustainable urban and community development initiatives across key sectors, including health, finance, education, agriculture, and social empowerment.

The Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi, revealed this while hosting officials of the international NGO, led by its Founder/CEO, Dr. Abiodun Olushola, alongside key members of the Lagos State Executive Council, including the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi; the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, and the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun.

The meeting,  at the Ministry of Finance Conference Room, Secretariat, Alausa, focused on leveraging Technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML) to empower communities and improve service delivery across strategic sectors in Lagos State.

 Oluyomi stated that the partnership is a welcome development as it aligns with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the current administration, promoting Education & Technology, Health & Environment, strategic innovation, social inclusion, and sustainable economic growth, amongst others.

He emphasised the State’s forward-thinking financial initiatives, highlighting the upcoming launch of Lagos State’s Green Bond. This pioneering move will make Lagos the first sub-national entity in Nigeria to issue a climate-focused investment instrument. The Green Bond, aimed at financing climate-resilient infrastructure and advancing key sectors such as health, environment, and housing.

He said: “This Green Bond is a landmark achievement for Lagos State. It reflects our dedication to financing sustainable projects that directly impact lives while maintaining fiscal responsibility. He also cited securitisation and tokenisation of state assets as part of the innovations driving Lagos’ rise as one of the largest economies in Africa.

Prof. Akin Abayomi shared ongoing innovations within the health sector, including advances in precision diagnosis, early detection and personalised cancer treatment, the deployment of robust artificial intelligence strategies for efficient data management and enhanced access to prompt medical care, as well as efforts to localise medical solutions through indigenous research and development.

Abayomi stated that these initiatives illustrate Lagos State Government’s holistic and innovation-driven approach, from digital systems and medical education to specialised care and community outreach, to strengthen healthcare delivery and outcomes across the state.

Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, Commissioner for Women and Poverty Alleviation, outlined various empowerment initiatives targeting women and vulnerable groups, including grassroots skill acquisition programmes, policy development aimed at long-term socio-economic inclusion, and the provision of startup equipment to beneficiaries to enable them launch and sustain their own businesses after training.

In the education sector, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, reaffirmed the State Government’s unwavering commitment to free education from early childhood through senior secondary level, including the payment of WAEC examination fees for all eligible students. 

He highlighted ongoing efforts to provide a conducive teaching and learning environment through the construction of modern classrooms, as well as the implementation of targeted programmes aimed at reintegrating out-of-school children.

Alli-Balogun also noted the State’s strategic collaborations with international organisations such as UNICEF and the World Bank, to align with global best practices and further strengthen the quality and accessibility of education in Lagos State.

Commissioner for Finance, Oluyomi, emphasised that there will be a follow-up meeting, which will include the commissioners for the Environment, Science and Technology, Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, to formalise a partnership that aligns with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the State Government.

Dr. Abiodun Olushola, the Founder/CEO, the International NGO, praised the Lagos State Government for its visionary policies that align with global best practices. She reaffirmed the foundation’s readiness to collaborate, invest, and support the State through international partnerships, training programmes, and investor-backed initiatives.

“This partnership marks a turning point for scalable impact in Nigeria. We are excited to work with Lagos State to drive community empowerment using next-generation technologies,” Dr. Olushola stated.

 

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Senator Adebule Empowers 1000 Lagos-West Constituents With Tools And Cash

The Senator representing Lagos-West Senatorial District, Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule, on Saturday, hosted a mega stakeholders’ engagement and empowerment programme, distributing tools and capital to 1,000 constituents.

The event, which held in Ikeja, served as a mid-term account of stewardship, where the former Lagos State Deputy Governor distributed various economic empowerment kits, including commercial mini-buses, sewing machines, laptops, and catering equipment, to beneficiaries drawn from the 28 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the district.

Speaking at the gathering, which was originally scheduled for December 2025 but rescheduled due to administrative exigencies, Adebule said the initiative was her contribution to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, particularly in the areas of job creation and poverty alleviation.

“Nothing gives me more tremendous joy and satisfaction than putting smiles on the faces of people and renewing their hopes in a future of shared prosperity,” she said.

She disclosed that the 1,000 beneficiaries had undergone intensive training in soft skills, including ICT, hairdressing, barbing, tailoring, and cosmetology. Beyond the equipment, some categories of beneficiaries also received cash grants of N200,000 each to kick-start their enterprises.

Providing a breakdown of her legislative activities since June 2023, Adebule revealed that she has sponsored 12 bills and co-sponsored six others, bringing her total legislative contributions to 18 bills. She also confirmed that two of her motions have been adopted by the Senate.

On constituency projects, the senator highlighted several ongoing and completed interventions aimed at improving grassroots development.

These include two primary healthcare centres currently under construction in Igbolobi (Ojo) and Isokan (Ifako-Ijaiye); construction of blocks of classrooms ranging from six to 18 units across Ajeromi-Ifelodun, Onigbongbo, Ojo and Oshodi; installation of over 1,000 solar street lights; completion of six solar-powered boreholes and donation of seven transformers; as well as the construction of a first-of-its-kind multi-purpose Youth Development Centre in Badagry, equipped with an ICT hub and sports facilities.

“The Federal Government has promised to ramp up cash-backing of ongoing projects. My next focus for the 2026 budget year will be road construction, specifically targeting inner roads that will provide succour to our people,” she added.

Addressing the current economic climate, Adebule urged Nigerians to remain patient and support the reforms of the Tinubu administration.

“The President is carrying out difficult but necessary reforms to reset our economy for sustainable and inclusive growth. He is walking the talk,” she said.

The event was attended by several prominent political figures, including members of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC) led by Prince Rabiu Adio Oluwa; the APC State Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi; and the Senator representing Ogun West, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi).

Adebule thanked her constituents and party leadership for their unalloyed support, assuring that the 2026 legislative year would witness more people-centred interventions.

 

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Lagos Assembly Passes N4.4 Trillion 2026 'Budget Of Shared Prosperity'

    

    The Lagos State House of Assembly has passed a ₦4.4 trillion budget for the 2026 fiscal year following the adoption of the report of the House Committee on Economic Planning and Budget.

Chairman of the committee, Sa’ad Olumoh, presented the report during plenary on Thursday, outlining the assumptions, projections, and structure of the 2026 Appropriation Bill, tagged the “Budget of Shared Prosperity.”

According to the report, the 2026 budget is the third budget cycle of the current administration and the final new-cycle budget of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term.

It is aligned with the administration’s development agenda, anchored on four strategic pillars: human-centric development, modern and adaptive infrastructure, a thriving 21st-century megacity economy, and effective governance that exceeds citizens’ expectations.

Olumoh said the budget framework was informed by key macroeconomic indices, including an exchange rate benchmark of ₦1,512 to the dollar, an inflation rate of 14.7 per cent, oil production of 2.06 million barrels per day, and a benchmark oil price of $64 per barrel.

The committee also reviewed the 2025 budget performance, reporting a cumulative performance of 79 per cent as of November 2025. Capital expenditure performance stood at 75 per cent, recurrent expenditure at 87 per cent, while overall revenue performance was put at 79 per cent.

For the 2026 fiscal year, the approved budget size stands at about ₦4.4 trillion, comprising proposed recurrent expenditure of ₦2.052 trillion and capital expenditure of ₦2.185 trillion. The capital component represents a significant share of the budget, underscoring the state government’s commitment to infrastructure development.

The budget makes provisions for personnel costs, overheads, debt servicing and debt repayment, with a projected deficit of about ₦243 billion to be financed through approved deficit financing options.

During deliberations, lawmakers commended the budget, describing it as realistic and growth-oriented.

Aro Moshood disclosed that an additional ₦171 billion was added to the budget during the review process.

Femi Saheed said the size and structure of the budget showed that Lagos State remained on a strong economic footing, provided all stakeholders played their roles.

Similarly, Gbolahan Yishawu, representing Eti-Osa Constituency II, emphasised the importance of revenue reforms and prudent loan repayment structures, noting that effective implementation would further strengthen the state’s fiscal position.

The Assembly also received assurances from relevant officials that revenue-generating agencies would collaborate to ensure that projected revenues are met and possibly exceeded.

Following deliberations, the House adopted the committee’s report, took the third reading and passed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had earlier presented a ₦4.237 trillion spending proposal to the House on November 25, 2025, stating that the budget was designed to accelerate economic growth, deepen infrastructure development and maintain fiscal responsibility.

He disclosed that the budget projected total revenue of about ₦3.99 trillion, with ₦3.12 trillion expected from internally generated revenue and ₦874 billion from federal transfers, while the deficit financing plan stood at approximately ₦243.3 billion.

 

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Alimot Adetoro Presents N6.81 Billion Budget For Eti-Osa LGA

    The Chairman of Eti-Osa Local Government, Mrs Alimot Adetoro, has proposed a N6.81bn budget for the 2026 fiscal year, with a focus on road rehabilitation and drainage projects aimed at addressing persistent flooding across the council area.

Presenting the proposed budget to the Eti-Osa Legislative Council, Adetoro said the spending plan prioritises infrastructure development as a critical response to environmental and mobility challenges confronting residents.

She explained that poor road networks and recurring flooding in several parts of Eti-Osa informed the administration’s decision to channel significant resources into comprehensive drainage construction and the rehabilitation of strategic roads.

According to the chairman, the infrastructure-focused budget is designed to deliver long-term solutions that will enhance free movement, reduce flood-related hazards and improve the overall quality of life in the area.

Adetoro added that improved roads and drainage systems would also stimulate economic activities, protect the environment and strengthen community resilience against climate-related challenges.

The proposed budget, which she described as people-focused and development-driven, also includes provisions for environmental sanitation and waste management reforms to promote a cleaner and greener Eti-Osa.

She urged members of the Legislative Council to give the proposal timely consideration and approval, noting that the budget represents a social contract aimed at delivering visible and measurable benefits to residents across the local government area.

 

 

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Markets Along Igando And Ikotun Roads Evacuated By Environmental Enforcement Team

The Lagos State Government on Saturday cleared roadside markets along the Ikotun–Igando Road in Alimosho Local Government Area (LGA).

Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, reported this in a post on his official X account, accompanying it with a video showing enforcement raid clearing trader encroachments and waste from Ikotun and Igando markets to reclaim roads and enforce sanitation laws via Project WISE and PSP teams.

“Earlier today, 20th December 2025, our joint enforcement team conducted an operation across Ikotun Main Market, Igando Market, and other roadside markets along the Ikotun–Igando Road,” Wahab said.

“The exercise involved dislodging recalcitrant traders who had encroached on road setbacks and walkways, and addressing improper waste disposal and other nuisance activities in violation of Lagos State sanitation laws.”

Wahab added that the operation was jointly executed by Project WISE (led by Mr. Bayo Oladeji) and PSP Services (led by Mr. Tunde Sulaiman).

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government recently urged all residents to participate in the state’s waste-to-wealth initiative to promote a circular economy. This initiative aims to reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfills, encourage the reuse of waste and promote recycling of waste for a sustainable environment.

Making the call during a television talk show, Wahab emphasised the importance of building a waste management culture that all residents must adopt for proper environmental sanitation.

Officials are visiting various areas across the state every Thursday, including Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe for the Trash for Cash initiatives, which involves giving cash to residents for their waste or collecting waste directly.

The government plans to establish permanent collecting points where residents can exchange their trash for a reasonable amount of cash, to discourage illicit waste disposal on roads, setbacks, medians, open spaces and canals.

The commissioner explained that the government was transitioning from the linear waste system of pick and drop, which is unsustainable and environmentally unfriendly, to a system where waste is viewed as a resource that can be converted into energy.

According to him, over the past two years, the government has been actively promoting partnership with local and global stakeholders to convert waste into compost fertiliser or recycled plastics.

“Companies such as Lafarge are already using waste to generate power, and the state is exploring other innovative ways to repurpose waste materials,” he added.

Wahab said the government signed a concession agreement with a company called Zoom Lion to convert 4,000 tonnes of daily waste into wealth, with 55 per cent of waste to compost fertiliser and recyclables.

The efforts have significantly reduced the amount of waste ending up in landfills, leading to the decommissioning of certain landfills like Olososun, Ikeja and Soluos 3, Igando.

He reiterated that the government banned cart-pushers across the state and introduced the waste-to-wealth initiative in their place. According to him, it is essential for everyone to embrace the broader vision of a clean, safe, flood-free, and sustainable Lagos.

 

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Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu Rewards 177 Public Servants With Cars And N165.5 Million

No Less than 177 outstanding public servants in Lagos State were yesterday rewarded by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. 

Five of the 99 selected senior civil servants won brand-new cars in a raffle draw, while 94 received N1 million each. In the junior category, five outstanding staff received N5 million each, while 73 received N500,000 each.

Sanwo-Olu also announced the promotion of the Director-General of the Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovation, Mrs Toyin Anjous-Ademuyiwa, to the position of a Permanent Secretary and announced a donation of N10 million to staff of the Office for putting Lagos on the national and global landscape.

The cars and cash gifts were announced and presented during the 2025 Mr. Governor’s luncheon with outstanding officers of Lagos State Public Service selected across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), including Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of the State.

Speaking during the event held at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, in Ikeja, Governor Sanwo-Olu urged public servants in the State to remain diligent and consistent in discharging their duties and to show excellence, noting that hard work would not go unnoticed.

Sanwo-Olu, who implored public servants not to relent in their dedication, commitment and consistency in the discharge of their duties, encouraged the awardees to continue to show excellence and keep up their good work always.

The governor said the recognition of outstanding officers was a deliberate effort to reward excellence and encourage consistency in service delivery. He urged them to identify their strengths, continually refine them, and remain committed to high standards, stressing that excellence must be sustained over time.

Sanwo-Olu noted that the achievements recorded across the state were the result of collective effort, adding that public service remains central to effective governance and development.

Speaking earlier, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, noted that the 177 outstanding officers in both junior and senior categories were selected after a rigorous and transparent process out of 312 nominations from different MDAs.

Agoro, who commended Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support, leadership, and commitment to the welfare of public servants, enjoined the staff to exhibit a high sense of responsibility, diligence, and commitment to duty.

He said the luncheon marked the grand finale of the 2025 Public Service Week, which featured medical screenings, fitness walks, donations to children with disabilities, long-service awards, a government lecture, and talent competitions.

 

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Carter Bridge, Third Mainland Bridge To Get Facelift From Deutsche Bank's Funding

Global lender Deutsche Bank has expressed interest in funding major rehabilitation and replacement works on two of Lagos’s most critical bridges, the Carter Bridge and the Third Mainland Bridge, as the Federal Government intensifies its push to attract private capital for large-scale road infrastructure projects.

The bank’s delegation, led by its Managing Director and Global Co-Head of Structured Trade and Export Finance, Moritz Dornemann, and Chief Country Representative in Nigeria, Andreas Voss, met with the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Abuja on Tuesday, where they also reaffirmed their appetite for further financing of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.

A statement by the minister’s Special Adviser on Media, Orji Uchenna, said the visit was part of the government’s ongoing efforts to build sustainable partnerships with global financiers to accelerate funding for strategic national projects.

During the meeting, the Deutsche Bank team said the lender was impressed by the Federal Government’s resolve to upgrade ageing transport infrastructure and applauded President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to delivering large-scale road projects capable of boosting national productivity.

They specifically expressed interest in financing the replacement of the Carter Bridge, which is one of Lagos’s oldest and historically significant bridges, and the comprehensive rehabilitation of the underwater elements of the Third Mainland Bridge, Africa’s second-longest bridge.

The statement read, “As part of the efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria towards building partnerships to finance and expedite large-scale road infrastructure development, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, held a meeting with the officials of Deutsche Bank in his office, Federal Ministry of Works, Mabushi, Abuja, on 2 December 2025.

“In their mission statement, the team from Deutsche Bank, made up of the Managing Director, Global Co-Head of Structured Trade and Export Finance, Moritz Dornemann, and the bank’s Chief Country Representative for Nigeria, Andreas Voss, said they came to indicate interest in the funding of the replacement of Carter Bridge, Lagos, and the rehabilitation of Third Mainland Bridge, Lagos.

“They commended the President for his commitment to the development of large-scale and quality road infrastructure across the nation, which they noted was critical in achieving sustainable economic growth and national prosperity.”

The bank also praised the quality of work being executed by Hitech Construction Ltd on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, noting that the project’s progress increased their confidence in Nigeria’s infrastructure delivery capacity and expanded their appetite to fund future phases.

Responding, Umahi commended the lender for its growing confidence in Nigeria’s infrastructure programme, revealing that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway had been “oversubscribed by over $100m” by investors.

He confirmed that Deutsche Bank had also indicated interest in evaluating the project cost, which he said the financiers considered undervalued, further strengthening their appetite for participation.

The minister disclosed that Carter Bridge had deteriorated so badly that replacement was now the only viable option, although remedial works were ongoing to preserve its structural integrity.

 

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