This is default featured slide 1 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.

This is default featured slide 2 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.

This is default featured slide 3 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.

This is default featured slide 4 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.

This is default featured slide 5 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.

Showing posts with label Governance Today. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Governance Today. Show all posts

Lagos To Construct 1,086-Metre Road In Igando-Ikotun LCDA

The Lagos State Government has flagged off the construction of the 1,086-metre Alhaji Ashafa, Alhaji Ogundimu and Tunde Olufoye Streets in Igando-Ikotun Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Alimosho.

This is as part of its “no community left behind” infrastructure push under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu with the Lagos State Government restating its commitment to infrastructure development across communities, assuring residents that no area will be left behind in its development agenda.

Officials including the Special Adviser on Rural Development and local leaders spoke at the ceremony, stressing improved connectivity, reduced travel time, economic boost, and job creation in semi-urban areas.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented at the ceremony by his Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, noted that the event was not merely about the commencement of another road project, but a clear demonstration of the unwavering commitment of the State Government to delivering sustainable development to communities across Lagos.

 

ADVERTORIAL

For detailed information on our editing services, please see inside

 

He described the project as a testament to the administration’s resolve to ensure that the benefits of good governance reach every part of the State, including rural and semi-urban communities.

Dr. Agbaje explained that the Office of Rural Development had, in September, flagged off about eight road projects across different communities, describing the initiative as another step towards building a more connected, inclusive and prosperous Lagos.

He said the projects were in line with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision of ensuring that infrastructure development reaches communities at the grassroots and that no community is left behind.

In his goodwill message, the Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Alimosho Constituency II, Hon. Kehinde Joseph, represented by Comrade Raheem Akeem, described the project as a testament to the commitment of the Lagos State Government to delivering the dividends of democracy to the doorsteps of residents.

He said the project would provide lasting solutions to some of the challenges confronting residents and businesses within the community.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for approving the project and for his continued commitment to infrastructure development across Lagos State.

She noted that the construction of the roads would boost socio-economic activities, reduce travel time and create employment opportunities for residents of the community.

The Executive Chairman of Igando-Ikotun LCDA, Comrade Lasisi Akinsanya, represented by the Secretary to the Local Government, Mrs. Mojisola Badmus, also expressed appreciation to the State Government for the project.

Badmus noted that since the inception of the Sanwo-Olu administration, the Igando-Ikotun LCDA has benefited immensely from various government interventions and developmental projects.

She, however, urged members of the community to cooperate with the contractor handling the project to ensure that the work was completed within the stipulated scope and timeframe.

  

Celebration Galore As WAPA Empowers Over 6000 Lagos Trainees


THE Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to economic inclusion and human capital development as 6,190 trainees from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) Free Skills Acquisition Centres officially passed out.

The graduation ceremony for the 2025 cohort, which held on Tuesday at De Blue Roof, Lagos Television (LTV), Agidingbi, Ikeja, brought together state executives, legislative leaders, community stakeholders and families to celebrate the beneficiaries’ transition into self-reliance.

Delivering his goodwill message, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasized that technical and vocational training under his administration’s THEMES+ agenda is designed to move beyond mere certification to creating sustainable enterprise and wealth creation.

“Today, we celebrate 6,190 Lagosians who have acquired more than vocational skills, they have acquired the capacity to create value, earn a living, and build a future,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “Training alone is not enough. If you learn tailoring but have no sewing machine, or acquire baking skills without the equipment to start production, the journey remains incomplete.”

 

ADVERTORIAL

For detailed information on our editing services, please see inside

 

The Governor explained that the state has established a structured pipeline connecting skill acquisition directly with enterprise support.

He cited the recent 2026 Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI), which empowered over 3,800 residents, including top-performing WAPA graduates, with functional tools, startup kits and industrial equipment.

He urged the newly trained artisans to deploy digital tools to expand their market reach, maintain professional integrity and mentor others within their local communities.

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, stated that the tuition-free centres strategically serve the five IBILE divisions of the state, with particular focus on women, unemployed youths and residents in riverine communities.

“Our vision is to build a society where women, young people and vulnerable members of our communities have access to practical skills and support that enable them to become active contributors to the economy,” Dada said.

In her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, commended the Governor for prioritizing grassroots empowerment. She also recognized the legislative support of the Chairman, House Committee on WAPA, Omolara Oyekan, and lauded the efforts of the Head of the Skills Acquisition Development Unit, Mrs. Olajumoke Yusuf, along with the instructional staff across the state’s centres.

Key Highlights of the WAPA Initiative are, tuition-free training across fashion design, catering, photography, beauty therapy, agricultural processing and technical crafts across the state. Direct integration of top-performing trainees into the state’s Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI) for equipment distribution. Strategic outreach targeting women, youth, and vulnerable groups across Lagos State’s 20 Local Governments and 37 Local Council Development Areas.

  

Senator Adebule Disburses N200 Million Grant To 2,000 Lagos West Beneficiaries


The Senator representing Lagos West Senatorial District, Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule, hosted the second edition of the Lagos West Women’s Assembly and Cash Empowerment Programme at the LTV Blue Roof Pavilion in Ikeja, where ₦200 million in direct business grants was disbursed to 2,000 constituents.

Held under the theme “From Voice to Action: Empowering Women for Impact,” the event gathered political leaders, community stakeholders, grassroots women entrepreneurs and market leaders to drive economic inclusion and human capital development across the senatorial district’s 28 Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

Delivering her address, Senator Adebule emphasized that the event was designed to move beyond rhetoric and provide tangible economic relief to families and small business owners struggling within the current economic climate. 

 

ADVERTORIAL

For detailed information on our editing services, please see inside

 

A major highlight of the cash empowerment was a ₦100 million direct contribution from Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (YAYI), representing Ogun West, who redeemed a pledge made during a previous empowerment drive in January 2026. Combined with matching funds, the ₦200 million package provided micro and mini seed grants to 2,000 selected traders, artisans and entrepreneurs.

“When each beneficiary receives this business cash support, our message is clear: we believe in you, we 

value

 your contributions and we are committed to supporting your dreams,” Adebule stated. “Let this support become seed capital for sustainable micro-businesses that will create jobs and improve family incomes.”

Reflecting on her tenure since assuming office in 2023, the former Lagos State Deputy Governor highlighted her legislative record and infrastructure footprint across Lagos West.

 “ Sponsored 12 bills and co-sponsored 6 others, totaling 18 legislative measures focused on child protection, legal reform, land administration, education, and anti-corruption, alongside motions tackling Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis. 

 “Construction of a 40-bed healthcare facility in Ojokoro LCDA (ready for commissioning) and an ongoing 15-bed health centre in the riverine Igbolobi community, Ojo LGA.

 “Completed primary school blocks in Mafoluku (Oshodi), Awodi-Ora (Ajeromi-Ifelodun), St. Michael (Ojo), and Oregun High School (Ikeja). Additionally, a Skills Acquisition Centre was commissioned in Odi-Olowo (Mushin), alongside the near-completion of an ultra-modern Youth Development Centre featuring CBT facilities, hostels and a micro-stadium in Ibereko, Badagry. 

“Installation of solar-powered streetlights across all 28 LGAs/LCDAs, step-down electricity transformers for seven communities, solar mega-boreholes in six high-density zones (including Markaz Agege, Festac Extension, and Abesan Estate) and a modern lock-up shop market at Amikanle in Agbado-Oke Odo LCDA.”

Several prominent political leaders and women advocates addressed the assembly, praising the lawmaker’s focus on poverty alleviation and grassroots support.

Chairman of Isolo LCDA, who is the DG of Adebule’s Campaign Organization, Adebayo Olasoju, stated that Senator Adebule is synonymous with empowerment, noting that her focus on supporting others may stem from her perspective as a woman. He highlighted that over a thousand individuals will benefit from the scheme and urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the resources provided.

Former Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dame Pauline Tallen, commended the senator for prioritizing women’s economic empowerment. She noted that when women are empowered, the broader economy thrives and praised Senator Adebule for creating these opportunities. She stated:

“As a sister and mother privileged to serve the public, Nigeria will be better when we move from voice to action, empowering women to make an impact. Today, what happens after we speak is what truly matters.”

Tallen advised women to support and accommodate others as they rise to leadership positions. She noted that Lagos continues to lead by example regarding female political participation in Nigeria, offering praise to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Furthermore, she urged the beneficiaries to convert the initial support into sustainable ventures:

“The cash provided can be transformed into big enterprises. To everyone receiving support today, do not simply consume it, invest it into business. A woman selling food is an entrepreneur, an investor and an employer. We must prepare women for tomorrow by encouraging our girls to study science and technology so we can raise daughters who lead.”

Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, APC Lagos State Chairman, focused his address on political accountability, grassroots mobilization and civic participation. 

  He expressed pride in Senator Adebule for fulfilling her promises to the electorate. He noted that her initiative contributes directly to poverty alleviation and aligns with the party’s development mandate.

 Grassroots Electoral Mobilization: Ojelabi highlighted the scale of the state’s political structure, pointing out that Lagos contains 176,846 polling units (noting the widespread reach across the wards) where party supporters need to remain active. He urged the beneficiaries to complement the Senator’s empowerment efforts by performing their civic duty as the election cycle approaches.

  He emphasized that political mandates are secured through the Permanent Voter Card (PVC). He urged constituents to ensure they collect their PVCs once ready and prepare to participate actively in upcoming polls to sustain ongoing developmental achievements.

  

How We Will Support Winners Of Miss Surulere Beauty Heritage Pageant Beyond The Competition - Lagos Government


The Lagos State Government has pledged to support winners of the Miss Surulere Beauty Heritage Pageant beyond the competition, with opportunities for partnerships, community projects and wider government-linked initiatives.
The state’s Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Idris Aregbe, gave the assurance while interacting with contestants and stakeholders during a courtesy visit to Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja yesterday.

Aregbe said the government was prepared to support contestants who demonstrated commitment and capacity to use the platform to promote tourism, culture and community development.
He said the contestants should not see the pageant merely as a contest for a crown but as an opportunity to develop ideas and initiatives capable of making lasting contributions to society.

“You can do much. It depends on where we are standing. I think you have self-capacity, and also the power of association,” Aregbe told the contestants.
He urged them to take ownership of their ideas and turn them into practical programmes, stressing that they could use their visibility and networks to champion causes within their communities.

 

ADVERTORIAL

For detailed information on our editing services, please see inside

 

Aregbe also encouraged the contestants to remain connected to Surulere and preserve the community’s identity, saying their roots should remain part of the legacy they build.
“When you think of Surulere, what comes to mind? Surulere is a small city, a cool, passionate city. My request to you: hold on to that identity. Don’t let it be lost,” he said.

He advised the contestants to learn from people who contributed to Surulere’s development and maintain relationships that could help them sustain their projects. “Your own identity is what people will remember you by,” he added.
Aregbe said government support would extend beyond the eventual winner, stressing that contestants who showed readiness and potential would also be considered for future opportunities.

“We pledge our full support to the contestants. There will be a partnership with our Chinese partners and other partners for the eventual winner. However, our commitment does not end there. We will also work with those who show readiness and potential, even if they do not emerge as the winner,” he said.
He also assured the organisers of support with necessary approvals and documentation, saying relevant processes would be handled in collaboration with the organisers.

Aregbe said efforts would also be made to ensure that the Lagos State Government and partners remained involved in major events associated with the initiative.
Calling on the contestants to aspire to make a difference beyond the competition, he said, “Give us a queen who will inspire us to do more. You are the face of Surulere.” He added: “The crown is temporary, but the impact is permanent.”
Meanwhile, the Show Producer, Mr. Adebayo Adegbe, said the contestants were undergoing training designed to prepare them for both the pageant and responsibilities that could follow afterwards.

Adegbe said they were being trained in etiquette, poise, speech, public speaking and catwalk, adding that the programme was intended to build their confidence and help them discover their potential.
He said the contestants would also have opportunities to meet role models and engage with local government officials on tourism, thereby creating opportunities for learning and networking.

According to him, the contestants had met with the Local Government Chairman, who assured them that the council was willing to work with any contestant with a viable plan or project that could benefit the community.
Adegbe disclosed that the winner would receive a ₦1.5 million cash prize, while the first and second runners-up would receive ₦1 million and ₦500,000 respectively.

He added that additional prizes worth about ₦2 million would be distributed among other participants, while the winner would also receive a three-day stay at the Transcorp Hotel.
Beyond the prizes, Adegbe said there would be opportunities for the winner to participate in wider government-linked projects, with further opportunities potentially extending beyond Nigeria.

He expressed confidence in the contestants, describing them as intelligent and capable of representing Surulere effectively.

  

Lagos State Hands Out Business Tools To 3,800 Residents To Drive Local Enterprise


The Lagos State Government has distributed start-up business equipment to more than 3,800 residents through the 2026 edition of its Micro Enterprise Support Initiative (MESI), in a renewed bid to tackle poverty and foster economic inclusion.

The empowerment event, organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), took place at De Blue Roof, Lagos Television (LTV), Agidingbi, Ikeja.

The gathering brought together state executives, lawmakers, community and market leaders and hundreds of beneficiaries from across the metropolis.

Delivering his keynote address, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, framed the initiative as a central pillar of his administration’s THEMES+ Agenda, which seeks to boost self-reliance and local job creation.

“Empowering entrepreneurs not only strengthens families but also stimulates job creation, supports small businesses, and contributes significantly to the socio-economic development of Lagos State,” Sanwo-Olu said, adding that the initiative ensures hardworking residents can access tools to elevate their standard of living regardless of their social standing.

 

ADVERTORIAL

For detailed information on our editing services, please see inside

 

Supporting the Governor’s remarks, Deputy Governor Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat described micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as the true backbone of the state’s economy.

Meanwhile, the First Lady of Lagos State, Mrs Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, urged the recipients, particularly women and vulnerable family members to leverage the assets to achieve financial independence.

Chair of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation,
Omolara Oyekan-Olumegbon, alongside the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, praised the program’s grassroots impact and its role in practical poverty reduction.

Addressing the audience, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation,  Cecilia Dada, explained that MESI was specifically designed to bridge the gap between vocational training and actual enterprise development.

“While our tuition-free Skills Acquisition Centres continue to equip residents with vocational and entrepreneurial skills, the Micro Enterprise Support Initiative provides beneficiaries with the tools required to establish or expand their businesses,” Dada said.

According to statistics released by the Ministry: “35,101 residents have graduated from tuition-free Skills Acquisition Centres under the current administration.

18,990 beneficiaries have received business equipment via MESI to date.

18,241 individuals in grassroots and riverine areas have benefited from the Life Skills and Economic Empowerment Programme (LEEP).

Over 5,500 widows have received direct financial grants to support their trade.

4,040 vulnerable families have been reached through the Ounjẹ Lọ Rẹ Awo Food and Nutrition Programme.”

The commissioner added that WAPA’s wider interventions encompass digital skills schemes, annual menstrual hygiene campaigns, agricultural projects at the Avia Farm in Badagry and legal and economic support for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

Beneficiaries at Tuesday’s event departed with a broad range of commercial equipment, including sewing machines, hairdressing and barbing kits, deep freezers, cameras, industrial gas burners, vulcanising machines, pepper grinders and raw food trade stock. Officials urged recipients to use the assets responsibly, scale their ventures, and contribute to the state’s broader economic growth.

  

Lagos Plants 13,401 Trees In Six Months


Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said the state planted 13,401 trees across its five administrative divisions in the first six months of 2026, representing 67 per cent of its annual target of 20,000 trees.

The governor said the remaining trees would be planted during the current rainy season, expressing confidence that Lagos would surpass its annual target by October.

Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, disclosed this on Tuesday during the 2026 Annual Tree Planting Day organised by the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency at Eko Amore Gardens, Freedom Way, Lekki.

 

ADVERTORIAL

See inside for more details

 

According to a statement issued by the Head of Public Affairs, LASPARK, Abiodun Adebayo, the governor said the state’s tree-planting target was part of efforts to expand its green infrastructure to address the effects of climate change.

He said, “Lagos had already planted 13,401 trees across its five administrative divisions as of June 30, representing 67 per cent of the state’s annual target of 20,000 trees. The remaining trees and more would be planted during the current rainy season.

“Tree planting is a vital investment in the future of Lagos. Expanding the state’s green infrastructure remains critical to combating climate change, improving air quality, reducing urban heat, preserving biodiversity and enhancing the overall well-being of residents,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu urged the chairmen of the 57 local government areas and local council development areas to serve as “Tree Custodians” by working closely with LASPARK to protect and monitor trees within their communities.

He also reminded residents that anyone who unlawfully fells a tree is required by law to replace it with five others.

As part of the event, the governor unveiled the 20 Lagos Tree Champions in recognition of individuals and organisations that have contributed significantly to the state’s greening initiative.

He called on private organisations, development partners, educational institutions, community groups and residents to support the government’s tree-planting campaign through strategic partnerships and sustained environmental stewardship.

“The government alone cannot achieve the vision of a greener and more resilient Lagos. Stronger public-private collaboration will significantly accelerate the state’s greening agenda while creating healthier and more sustainable communities for present and future generations,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu also commended LASPARK for promoting environmental awareness and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to environmental sustainability under the THEMES+ Agenda.

The wife of the deputy governor, Mrs Oluremi Hamzat, described this year’s theme, “Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility,” as a reminder that protecting the environment requires collective action.

“The future of our environment depends on the choices we make today and the actions we take as individuals and corporate entities,” she said.

Earlier, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, described tree planting as one of the most practical and cost-effective responses to climate change.

He said the annual exercise underscored the state’s commitment to environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.

“Beyond beautifying the environment, trees absorb carbon dioxide, release oxygen, enrich soil fertility, reduce erosion, conserve water resources and create habitats for wildlife while supporting agriculture, tourism and other green economic opportunities,” Wahab said.

He added that every tree planted under the state’s afforestation programme had been geo-tagged and was being actively monitored to ensure its survival.

The commissioner appealed to residents, schools, businesses, community associations, development partners and civil society organisations to protect existing trees and plant more.

The General Manager of LASPARK, Mrs Adetoun Popoola, said the agency was deploying geotagging technology and community-based monitoring systems to improve tree survival rates.

She added that LASPARK would continue distributing free tree seedlings to residents, corporate organisations, Community Development Associations, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders to encourage wider participation in the greening campaign.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Agege Local Government, Mr Vinod Obasa, pledged his council’s support for the state’s afforestation drive and promised to encourage more tree planting across the local government area.

Recall that Lagos State, last month, unveiled a new environmental initiative aimed at combating climate change and rising urban temperatures, committing to planting 500 trees across the state while joining a global campaign to address extreme heat in cities.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Olalekan Rotimi-Akodu, made the announcement on the occasion of the 2026 World Environment Day, where officials warned that rapid urbanisation and climate change were increasing heat-related risks for residents.

  

Lagos, CCECC Partner To Establish Railway Training Centre


The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority has partnered with the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation to establish a Railway Training Centre as part of efforts to build the skilled workforce needed to support the expansion of Lagos’ rail network from six to 11 rail lines.

The agreement, signed in Lagos, comes as the Lagos State Government updates its Strategic Transport Master Plan, increasing the rail component from the original six rail lines and one monorail to 11 rail lines and one monorail in response to the state’s growing transportation demands.

 

ADVERTORIAL

See inside for more details

 

Speaking at the signing ceremony on Saturday, the Managing Director of LAMATA, Mrs Abimbola Akinajo, said the proposed training centre would ensure that the state’s expanding rail infrastructure is operated and maintained by highly skilled Nigerian professionals, reducing dependence on foreign expertise.

She noted that the authority had already made considerable progress in developing local manpower through the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue and Red Lines, where hundreds of Nigerians have been trained to manage critical aspects of rail operations.

She said, “Since we started the Blue and Red Line operations, we have trained over 400 personnel, including train drivers, customer service representatives, and operations staff. On the Blue Line alone, we have achieved over 90 per cent local staffing, with technical partners filling only the remaining gaps.”

Akinajo explained that the expansion of the state’s rail network made it imperative to establish a structured and internationally certified railway training institution capable of producing professionals across key areas of the industry.

According to her, “The Strategic Transport Master Plan has now been updated to include 11 rail lines and one monorail. For a network of this scale to be sustainable, we need a proper certified training system covering signalling, maintenance, operations, and customer service. Our goal is to ensure that the infrastructure we build is operated and maintained by Nigerians.

“This will guarantee the longevity of our transit systems, create meaningful employment opportunities for our youths, and contribute significantly to the growth of the Nigerian economy.”

She described the partnership with CCECC as a strategic investment in human capital, saying it would equip young Nigerians with globally recognised railway skills while supporting the state’s vision of an integrated and sustainable mass transit system.

Responding on behalf of CCECC, the company’s Vice President, Sun Xiangchun, commended LAMATA for championing the initiative, describing vocational education as the bedrock of industrial development and a key driver of sustainable infrastructure growth.

He said the project aligns with the China-Africa Vocational Education Plan jointly endorsed by the Presidents of Nigeria and China, adding that the collaboration would deepen technical education and accelerate Africa’s industrialisation agenda.

According to Xiangchun, having delivered the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue and Red Lines, CCECC understands that the next phase of Lagos’ rail development will require a new generation of highly trained professionals in railway operations, maintenance and management.

He said, “The establishment of a professional and integrated railway training centre is not only timely but essential for the sustainable development of Lagos’ rail transit system.”

Xiangchun added that the facility would combine classroom learning, simulation-based training, practical field experience, and professional skills assessment to produce world-class railway personnel capable of managing Africa’s fastest-growing urban rail systems.

  

Security: Lagos Donates Protective Gear To NDLEA


The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining what officials described as Nigeria’s safest security environment with the donation of bulletproof vests, ballistic helmets and 100 raincoats to the Lagos Strategic Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The donation, facilitated by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), forms part of the state government’s continued investment in strengthening security agencies through the provision of operational equipment and logistics.
Presenting the items to the NDLEA command, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the LSSTF, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains committed to ensuring that security agencies operating in Lagos are adequately equipped to safeguard lives and property.

“Let me commend the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, in whose authority I am here today. He is the brain behind all that we do for security agencies in Lagos. I have come to celebrate the best governor as far as security is concerned in Nigeria. Lagos is the best and the safest state in the country,” he said.
Ogunsan said the protective equipment would enhance the safety and operational effectiveness of NDLEA officers in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse across the state.

“We have come to offer these bulletproof vests, ballistic helmets and raincoats so that you can do more and achieve more. This will support your patrol operations and ensure that the vital organs of our officers are protected. Please make good use of these items, and we remain open to further collaboration,” he added.

He also commended the leadership of the NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command, describing it as one of the agency’s best-performing commands.
“I also celebrate the best NDLEA command in Nigeria under Assistant Commander-General of Narcotics, Wali Liman Abubakar. Since his assumption of office, we have witnessed remarkable achievements. The energy and commitment he has brought to the job are commendable. You play a crucial role in Lagos’ security architecture, and we are pleased to partner with you.”

Ogunsan warned criminal elements against operating in the state, stressing that Lagos would not provide a haven for crime.
“This is a warning to anyone planning to cause trouble. Lagos is not vacant. We will accept nothing short of safety. Lagos is security-conscious and will not harbour criminals. We are monitoring activities on land, at sea and in the air,” he said.

Responding, the Commander of the NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command, Assistant Commander-General of Narcotics, Wali Liman Abubakar, thanked the Lagos State Government and the LSSTF for the donation, describing it as timely.

  

Lagos Government Orders Immediate Evacuation Of Waste Across The State


Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed an immediate scale-up of waste evacuation operations across the state following growing concerns over the accumulation of refuse in some areas.

The state government, in a statement issued on Thursday by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gbenga Akosile, acknowledged residents’ complaints and assured Lagosians that efforts were underway to restore normal waste collection services.

According to the statement, relevant agencies and service providers have been mobilised to work round the clock to clear waste backlogs and improve sanitation across affected communities.

“The Lagos State Government acknowledges the concerns of residents regarding the recent accumulation of refuse in some parts of the state and wishes to assure Lagosians that the situation is receiving the highest level of attention from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the entire machinery of government.

“We are not oblivious to the inconveniences and concerns occasioned by the situation. Lagosians deserve a clean, healthy and environmentally sustainable city, and this administration remains fully committed to delivering on that obligation,” the statement read.

Akosile said additional resources had been deployed to support waste evacuation efforts, while strategic interventions were being implemented to strengthen operational efficiency and improve waste collection and disposal.

He added that the governor had directed the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, the Lagos Waste Management Authority, the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency and other relevant agencies to intensify their operations.

The government noted that Lagos generates about 13,000 tonnes of waste daily, making it one of the highest waste-producing cities on the African continent.

While describing the current situation as temporary, the government said substantial progress had already been recorded in some locations and promised further improvements in the coming days.

“We wish to reassure residents that this challenge is temporary. Indeed, substantial progress is already being recorded in several locations, and more improvements will become visible across the state in the days ahead,” he added.

The government also urged residents, market associations, businesses and community leaders to support sanitation efforts by disposing of waste properly and avoiding activities that obstruct drainage channels, roads and designated waste collection points.

It reiterated its commitment to maintaining environmental standards and protecting public health across the state.

  

Residents Of Surulere Petition Reps Member Over Road Project


Residents of Anjorin Community Development Association in Surulere, Lagos State, have petitioned their federal lawmaker, Lanre Okunola, over what they described as poor execution and prolonged delay in the construction of the Anjorin Street road project.

The petition, signed by CDA Chairman Kehinde Okelade, accused contractors of substandard work, lack of professional supervision, and abandonment of sections of the project since work commenced in 2024.

Okelade said residents had endured months of disruption after the initial clearing of drainage channels began in August 2024, but no meaningful construction followed for an extended period.

“Sometime in August 2024, clearing of drainage commenced on Anjorin as preparation for the construction of the road. However, it was not until June 2025 that we noticed the breaking of culverts in front of buildings,” he said.

Democracy Day Protesters Converge at Ikeja Under Bridge

He alleged that when construction eventually resumed, the materials and methods used fell below acceptable standards.

“We observed that the iron rods used for the construction were so tiny, below the required specifications, and the work was being executed by mallams without any engineer on site for supervision,” Okelade said.

He also raised concerns about supervision and interference in the project, alleging that individuals without technical qualifications were directing workers on-site.

“We noticed one of the notable CDA members from Ramoni Ward, by name Ayo, was the one supervising the construction… the said Ayo is not an engineer and does not have any qualification known to us for handling road construction,” he added.

According to the residents, construction activities have also disrupted access to adjoining streets without consultation.

“Ayo instructed the mallams to dig up the Akanji road junction by Anjorin, thereby preventing residents of Akanji from accessing their street. The action was taken without formally informing the CDA or the residents,” the petition stated.

The CDA compared the ongoing project with neighbouring roads, alleging uneven standards of execution.

“The construction of Onadeko was attested by residents of our CDA as the best road construction in Surulere. Sadly, Anjorin Street… is being poorly constructed and will likely fail just as we are currently experiencing with Cole Street,” Okelade said.

He urged the lawmaker to intervene directly by inspecting the project and ensuring accountability in the use of public funds.

“As leaders within the community, we have been receiving so many complaints from residents regarding the state of Cole Street and also Anjorin… which has been ongoing for about two years,” he said.

  

Lagos To Reconstruct And Upgrade Major Roads In Ikeja GRA


The Lagos State Government has commenced plans to reconstruct and upgrade major road networks in Ikeja GRA, including Ladoke Akintola Road, Oladipo Bateye, Tayo Ayeni, Adetunji Adeoba and Sowemimo roads, as part of efforts to improve infrastructure and enhance connectivity within the highbrow neighbourhood.

The government disclosed this during a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Office of Infrastructure under the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to brief residents on the scope of the projects and obtain their support ahead of construction.

Speaking at the meeting, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Olufemi Daramola, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Infrastructure, Tokunbo Oyenuga, said the projects formed part of the state’s broader urban regeneration and road rehabilitation programme.

According to him, the engagement was necessary to ensure that residents understood both the benefits and temporary inconveniences associated with the projects.

“To ensure a seamless process, the Office of Infrastructure under the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure held a stakeholders meeting to allow residents to understand the peculiarity of pains and gains before the end of the projects,” he said.

Oyenuga noted that the roads would be reconstructed using concrete pavement technology and fitted with solar-powered streetlights to improve durability, safety and environmental sustainability.

He called on residents to cooperate with the government and contractors to facilitate the timely completion of the projects.

The permanent secretary also assured residents that the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure would continue to engage stakeholders throughout the execution of the projects to ensure that concerns were addressed promptly.

He further urged property owners to adhere to approved building setbacks and avoid encroaching on public road alignments.

Representing residents at the meeting, the chairman of the Ikeja GRA Residents Association, Muiz Banire, who spoke through Ade Atobatele, welcomed the government’s intervention and described the planned road upgrades as critical to development.

He commended the state government for engaging residents before commencing the projects and expressed confidence that the project would improve mobility and infrastructure within the community.

Banire, however, appealed to the government to ensure the prompt completion of the projects to reduce the disruption construction activities could cause to residents and businesses.

“At the same time, we urge the government to ensure prompt completion of the road projects to minimise the hardship that residents and businesses may experience during construction.

“We assure the government of the maximum cooperation of residents towards the success of the projects,” he said.

The contractors handling the projects also pledged to deliver the works within schedule, assuring stakeholders that the roads would provide long-term benefits for residents and support future development within the community.

Stakeholders at the meeting further called on the state government to address issues raised during the engagement to ensure the successful execution of the projects.