Breaking: Lagos Assembly Adopts Report To Stop Houses For Tinubu, Fashola, Ambode, others | AgegePulse Magazine

 

By Ayodele Ifasakin 

•Reduce Pension Of Ex-Governors by 50%

The Lagos State House of Assembly on Thursday approved the report of its committee on establishment which recommended the reduction of pensions to former governors and other affected officials by 50 percent.

The committee also expunged the provision of houses in Abuja and Lagos for former governors as stipulated in an earlier law operated by the state.

The report further showed a reduction in the number of vehicles to be made available to former governors and their deputies.

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. (Dr) Mudashiru Obasa, suggested that former governors should get two vehicles (a car and a van) instead of three as recommended by the committee.

He also suggested that the amended bill should provide that the cars be changed every four years instead of the three years recommended by the report.

While some of the lawmakers, at plenary, had suggested for an upward review of the pension for the affected public office holders by 75 percent, others urged that the pension remain as stipulated in the old law.

However, Obasa argued that it should be left at 50 percent, especially as the report had recommended the removal of houses and reduced other benefits.

While recalling the recent murder of the president of Haiti, Obasa said it was necessary to also secure the lives of the former office holders.

"By virtue of my office, I have seen former Speakers who we just had to intervene in their lives because of the situations they found themselves outside office. We have also seen former governors in a very bad situation," he said.

Obasa noted the argument of his colleagues that the projected downward review of the pension for the former governors and others could also be affected by inflation and other economic considerations, but reminded that the House must meet the wishes of the people one of which is a cut in the cost of governance.

"There is no argument, we must realise that this is democracy and it is all about the people. We are here because of the people. When we represent people, it is good for us to listen to them as well.

"We must realise that we would always go back to the people for support. So when we hearken to their agitations and reduce what existed, it shows that we listen," Obasa told his colleagues adding that his suggestion for further reduction of the number of cars was because "as you age, your needs continue to decrease."

Earlier some of the lawmakers had supported the report of the committee saying it would have a positive impact on the internally generated revenue of the state.

Just In: Ambode Loses Bid To Stop Probe By Lawmakers Over Purchase Of 820 Buses

Justice Yetunde Adesanya of an Ikeja High Court on Thursday struck out a suit filed by former Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos, seeking to stop his probe by the state Assembly over purchase of 820 buse s for Bus Reform Project.

Ambode

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Adesanya ruled that the ad-hoc committee set up to investigate Ambode was a fact-finding committee.

According to the judge an investigation is not an indictment.

“The claimant (Ambode) has not been indicted. An invitation by an agency of government cannot in anyway cause a breach of the threat of the fundamental rights of the claimant.

“I hereby find that the claimant’s action is an invitation to the court to cripple the legislative exercise of the statutory power of the Lagos State House of Assembly under Section 128 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution.

“That is not the function of the court, and no court of law should accede such invitation. The claimant’s suit is hereby struck out,” she said.
NAN reports that Ambode had instituted the civil suit against the State House of Assembly, its Speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, and the House Clerk, Mr A.A. Sanni.

Other respondents are Mr Fatai Mojeed, the Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee set up by the House to probe the procurement of the buses, and eight members of the committee.

Buhari to Ambode: Your performance is satisfactory

President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday; he gave the Lagos State governor, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode a pass mark for the audacious projects he has delivered to the people and congratulated him for his giant strides in the state.

He said: “The Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode has performed satisfactorily in delivering governance to the people of Lagos and we should all congratulate him for working for the good people of Lagos State.”

He spoke at the Oshodi Interchange, where he had come to commission the project and flagged off the Bus Reform Initiative with 820 medium and large capacity buses at the Oshodi.

President Buhari had earlier commissioned the Institute of Maternal and Child Health, (Ayinke House), and the Lagos Theatre project at Oregun, in the Ojota area of the state, and the 10-lane Airport Road, all of which began in 2017.



Buhari singled out Lagos as the only state he would be visiting twice within two years, having come to the state March 29 last year when he commissioned the Ikeja Bus Terminal.

He said: “I also came here in February during our campaign and I am very grateful to all of you for voting our government back into office and pledge my total commitment to taking our country to the peak of our development and growth.

Buhari was accompanied to Lagos by Governor Ibikunle Amosun, (Ogun), Senator Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (Ondo), Alhaji Bindo Jibrilla (Adamawa), Mr Philip Shaibu, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, and the Governor-elect of Lagos State Mr Babajide Sanwoolu and his deputy Dr Obafemi Kadiri Amzat.

Also on the president’s entourage are the Minister of Communications Dr Adebayo Shittu, and the Special Adviser to the President on Media Mr. Femi Adesina among others.

Buhari said he is happy that Ambode is leaving impressive legacies that would have a huge impact on the people of the state.

Read Also: Buhari arrives Lagos on working visit
He said the terminals when fully operational will ensure that commuters are made more comfortable as they wait for more comfortable buses that will move them faster, better and cheaper.

Highlighting the contributions of the Federal Government to the state’s infrastructure, Buhari said recently the Federal Government approved the repair of Oworonsoki-Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, which was last touched in the past 40 years, while the Lagos-Ibaan standard gauge rail line is almost at the completion stage.

When completed, the rail line would complement efforts to improve intermodal transportation as more passengers and cargo movement will be moved by rail.

Vanguard

Y2019 Budget'll Be of Great Benefit To Lagosian, Says Obasa

AgegePulse Magazine

The Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa has today expressed optimism that the budget would be of great benefit to the people of the State.

Obasa stated this briefly after the presentation of the proposed N852.316Bn Y2019 Budget presented by the Executive Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode at House of Assembly Complex, Alausa Ikeja.


He assured that the House would work with the executive to pass the budget aptly.


According to the  Governor, N462.757billion representing 54 percent of the total budget size had been earmarked for capital expenditure, while N389.560billion representing 46 percent had been dedicated to recurrent expenditure, saying that key projects such as the Oshodi-Murtala Mohammed International Airport Road, Agege Pen Cinema Flyover bridge and Oshodi Interchange Terminal, among others would be completed.


“In 2019, as was with our previous budgets, Economic Affairs still dominates the sectoral allocation of the proposed budget. This is due to our continued focus on the completion of major on-going projects such as: Oshodi-Murtala Mohammed International Airport Road; Agege Pen Cinema Flyover; Phase II of Aradagun-Iworo -Epeme Road, Oshodi Interchange Terminal; completion of JK Randle Complex, Onikan Stadium; Imota Rice Mill; Renovation/Furnishing of Lagos Revenue House, amongst others in order to meet their specified deliverable outcomes without any bias or prejudice to others.” Ambode asserted.

Priotize Teachers' Welfare, Ambode Tells New TESCOM Board Members

…Swears-In Perm Sec/Auditor General For Local Govt

 AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday inaugurated chairman and board members of the State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), with a charge on the appointees to give top considerations to teachers’ welfare and ensure employment of only well qualified professionals to teach in public secondary schools in the State.

Speaking at a twin event which also witnessed the swearing-in of Mrs. Adesumbo Abolarin as Permanent Secretary/Auditor General for Local Government, held at Lagos House in Alausa, Ikeja, Governor Ambode said it was important for the public officers to justify their appointment by working ultimately in the interest of the people.



He said the passage and signing of the Teaching Service Commission Bill was a great moment for the education family in the State coming after eight years of several attempts, adding that the development became imperative as a result of the unrelenting efforts of the State Government to strengthen the education sector.

“With the knowledge that education plays a very vital role in the development of our society and that a society cannot thrive above the level of its educational attainment, the passage and signing of this Law was very essential.



“Today, in fulfillment of the provision of that law, we have just witnessed the inauguration of the Board whose responsibility will be to ensure that the objectives of the law are achieved.



“For avoidance of doubts, let me state that one of the major aims of this law, which shall be a key responsibility of this Board, is to ensure improvement in the welfare of our teachers and also ensure that well qualified teachers are recruited into our public secondary schools,” Governor Ambode said.



He said it was particularly instructive that seasoned educationists and administrators had been carefully selected based on their track records for appointment into the TESCOM board, expressing optimism that the State would witness rapid improvement in the education sector, particularly at the secondary level.



“You will agree with me that if we are to achieve the kind standard we desire in our educational system and also lay a good foundation for the future development of our State in terms of quality manpower, we must give adequate attention to maintaining highly motivated and effective teaching personnel.



“I, therefore, charge the Chairman and members of this Board to study very carefully the provisions of the law in order to fully understand their role and responsibilities expected of them. I also enjoin you all, to ensure that due process is followed in all matters that would be brought to your attention and for your decision.



“You should be unbiased in the discharge of your responsibilities as a board. We have done a lot in the provision of educational infrastructure in our public schools; all of these infrastructural facilities will amount to a waste if not complemented with dedicated, well-motivated and committed teachers,” Governor Ambode admonished the appointees.



The Governor also appealed to teachers to cooperate with the Board to further ensure fair play in the discharge of their responsibilities.



While the Chairman of the Board is Mrs Olabisi Ariyo, others members are Mr. Jacob Ashaka, Mrs Sidikat Smith, Mr Adeleke Oluseun Kara and Mrs Adijat Kuburat Hassan.



Responding on behalf of the appointees, Ariyo thanked Governor Ambode for the confidence reposed in them, and assured that the board would work hard, be unbiased and prioritize the welfare of teachers, as well as train and retrain them for optimal performance.

2019: BUHARI REMAINS THE BEST CHOICE FOR NIGERIA-Ambode

…Says Kaduna Mammoth Crowd Proof Of Nigerian’s Love For President

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday evening reiterated his position that President Muhammadu Buhari, who is flag-bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the February 16 Presidential election, remains the best choice for Nigeria to move forward to the next level.



Cornered by journalists at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna, venue of the Presidential rally, Governor Ambode said President Buhari in the last three and half years has set the nation on a trajectory of reviving its glory days, adding it was expedient for him to consolidate on the achievements with another term of four years.



“The choice before Nigerians is simple; to go back to the days of corruption, infrastructural decay and insecurity or continue with the trajectory of infrastructural development, steady anti-corruption war and the constant fight against territorial threats. This is what the Buhari and Osinbajo ticket represents.



“They have initiated social inclusion policies and constructed critical infrastructure across the federation which is gradually bringing back the nation’s economy in the right path and giving Nigerians a real sense of belonging. This is the way we want to go and Nigerians have shown that this is where they are going to go,” the Governor said.



He said the unprecedented crowd that thronged out to witness the APC Presidential rally in Kaduna was a testament to the fact that Nigerians are fully in support of President Buhari’s government and are going to go all out to renew his mandate come February 16, 2019.



“What we saw in Kaduna was unprecedented, just look at the crowd and the way they came out in droves. The passion, the trust and support that the Nigerian people have for Buhari is unrivalled and iconic. People just love Buhari; they trust him because he has performed well in the last three and half years, together with the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, they have delivered on their electoral promises and what is in the APC manifesto,” Governor Ambode said.



He urged supporters of the party to remain focused and not be distracted by the campaign of calumny the opposition parties have decided to harp on rather than focus on issues affecting Nigeria, saying that President Buhari has remained focus to deliver a new Nigeria that would take its rightful place among the comity of nations.



“We are not deterred by all the false narratives the opposition are spreading; we would rather focus on the issues and these issues are basically on how to make the life of Nigerians better. You can see for yourselves, the people have seen that President Buhari is a man of integrity that they can trust him and that is why it is important that he continues. He promised change which he has fulfilled and the next level is to consolidate on that change on the policies he has introduced and implemented,” the Governor said.

Ambode apprehends ‘one way’ offenders

AgegePulse Magazine

Irked by the flagrant abuse of the Lagos State Traffic Laws, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday evening came down hard on some recalcitrant motorists who drove against traffic along the Muritala Mohammed Airport Road, Ikeja.

Returning from Abuja where he had attended the inauguration of the Presidential Campaign Council, Governor Ambode was shocked at the manner some motorists drove ‘one way’ to beat the traffic along the Air-force Base inward International Airport Road, Ikeja.

He was particularly angry that one of the offenders, an army personnel, who drove a space bus with registration number JJJ 290 AC, would choose to blatantly contravene the law.

The Governor, on sighting the vehicle, alighted from his car and reprimanded the officer for showing a bad example contrary to what the Nigeria Army is known for.

Another offender, who drove a saloon car with registration number LSR 445 ER, also got some schooling from the Governor for breaking the law regardless of the dangers involved in driving against traffic.

Governor Ambode immediately ordered for the vehicles to be impounded, while also directing that the offenders be prosecuted in line with the provisions of the Traffic Laws.

WE’LL DELIVER MAJOR ONGOING PROJECTS ON SCHEDULE, LAGOS ASSURES RESIDENTS

…Orders Contractors To Speed Up Work

AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Government on Sunday ordered contractors handling major ongoing projects across the State to speed up work to bring relief and comfort to motorists and residents, assuring that no efforts would be spared to ensure the delivery of the projects on schedule.

Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Adebowale Akinsanya who said this after embarking on extensive inspection tour of ongoing projects in the State, said the government was not oblivious of the difficulties being experienced by motorists, adding that concerted efforts were on to seriously bring it under control.

He said with the rains subsiding, Lagosians should expect increased pace of work by contractors handling various projects, just as he assured that the State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode was seriously committed to the delivery of the projects.

According to him, “I have just inspected the progress of work on Airport Road, Pen Cinema Flyover, Oshodi Transport Interchange, Onikan Stadium, Oshodi-Abule-Egba Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project and JK Randle Centre For Yoruba Culture and History.

“The inspection tour is at the instance of His Excellency the Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode who has equally given contractors handling various projects across the State matching orders to expedite work.

“You see, with the rains subsiding, the State Government is leaving no stone unturned to rev up the projects and bring the truly deserved comfort to the people as well as improve on the aesthetics of the State and that is why all hands are on deck to ensure completion of the projects on schedule,” Akinsanya said.

He said the projects were deliberately embarked upon to align the State with the league of cities with world class infrastructures thus making Lagos to be globally competitive, adding that the gains of the investment of the present administration in provision of critical infrastructure would soon be positively felt on a large scale in all sectors.

On the traffic situation, the Commissioner said while potholes were being fixed day and night, the traffic management team of the State Government had equally jerked up activities, adding that other initiatives were being put in place to address the situation with the urgency required.

“As I speak to you, the Public Works Corporation has intensified their rehabilitation of potholes across the State. We were initially held back by the rains, but with the dry season now, more roads have been covered in the last one month and we appeal to Lagosians to be patient, if you have not seen them in your area, they will get their soon,” he assured.

SANWO-OLU ‘LL NOT ABANDON ONGOING PROJECTS IN LAGOS-AMBODE

…Says N15bn Spent On Upgrading Infrastructure In Schools In Three Years

…Inaugurates Ultra-Modern Lecture Theatre Donated To LASU



Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday assured that the Governorship candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State for the 2019 general elections, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu will not abandon ongoing projects but rather complete and build on the enduring legacies already put in place by his administration.



Governor Ambode, who said this while inaugurating an ultra modern lecture theatre donated to the Lagos State University (LASU) by businessman and philanthropist, Mr Remi Makanjuola, said while efforts were on to complete all the major projects initiated by his administration, Sanwo-Olu would nonetheless complete those ones he is unable to deliver before the expiration of his tenure next year. 



“I am so excited about the fact that Mr Sanwo-Olu has actually come out here and he has issued a promissory note and what that mean is that we are going to have a government of continuity.



“For whatever structures that we have in LASU right now, and I’m going to also convince our chief negotiator, Dr Wale Babalakin, we are already doing Senate building here, we are doing Students Arcade and we are also doing the Library, I hope I will be able to complete and finish them but if I am unable to complete them, I speak on behalf of Mr Sanwo-Olu that he will finish and also do the Staff School.



“We are not campaigning yet but truly that is the spirit of the kind of governance that we bring to Lagos; that is the spirit that we really want to see and then we should be able to show leadership in all spheres of life that we find ourselves,” Governor Ambode said.

Speaking on his administration’s intervention in the educational sector, he said in the last three and half years, at least N15billion has been invested in revamping infrastructure in schools across the State to ensure students can learn in a conducive environment, while 3,400 primary and secondary teachers were employed to improve the teacher to student ratio as well as quality of learning in schools.



The Governor said beyond the upgrade of infrastructure, the State Government developed innovative solutions to bridge gaps in education system, and to position Lagos State for a technology-driven future including the ReadySetWork and CodeLagos initiatives, noting that while 34,000 students have graduated from the former, the latter is geared towards teaching one million Lagos residents to code.

“At the grassroots level, faced with the realization that about 3 million Lagos residents could not read or write in any language, we commissioned Eko Nke Koo (Lagos Is Learning), an initiative aimed at raising the literacy rate in Lagos State from its current 87% to 95%.



“Through Eko Nke Koo, the Lagos State Agency for Mass Education increased the number of adult literacy centres across the State from 532 centres in 2016, to 782 as at January 2018.



“We have also recorded improvement in enrolment and retention rates of learners in the programme. In 2017, 98% of enrolled learners graduated from the programme,” Governor Ambode said.

He said in LASU, his administration had also carried out notable projects targeted at ensuring the institution remains academically competitive, financially viable, and most importantly, conducive for learning.



The Governor noted that last year, the State carried out major infrastructure development and road works to give the school a facelift befitting of its status as one of the top State Universities in the country, while it had also benefited from a significant increase in subvention to assist in ensuring smooth running of the school.



He disclosed that he had approved for the development of a 6,000 bed hostel which according to him, will increase accessibility and improve security for students in the institution, as the demand for higher education continues to grow.



“Reflecting on these investments, I must acknowledge it has been the privilege of this administration to build on the works of visionaries who came before us; and to be given the opportunity to raise the mark higher as we look ahead to a bright future for our State and Country,” Governor Ambode said.



The Governor also seized the occasion to commend the Makanjuola for donating the ultra-modern lecture hall to the institution, saying that the gesture would forever be remembered by generations. 



“It has also been a true privilege and honour to work alongside collaborators - whether large scale organizations or well-meaning individuals in society - who recognize their role in State and Nation building, and have worked tirelessly to support the efforts of government.



“Today’s occasion is symbolic of this citizen-partnership. Indeed, Mr. Makanjuola has sown a seed that would outlive him by bequeathing this Ultra-Modern lecture Theatre to the University. Sir, this is a gesture that will be remembered for generations and for that we are eternally grateful. And in the same vein, on behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, and the entire Lagos State University community, I say a very happy birthday to you, Sir. In another 48 hours, our philanthropist will be 70 years old. Congratulations, Sir,” he said.

'You're All Bastards' — Aremu Afolayan Tears Into Buhari, Ambode, Ethiopian Airlines | Sahara Reporters

Agege Pulse Magazine

“Why do you have to allow this to happen and you call yourself a f**king Buhari? Who are you? What kind of president are you? What kind of mayor of a state are you, Ambode or whoever is there? Ethiopian Airlines is the most rubbish airline in the world. Why would they not pick someone and they’ve delayed and now they're asking us to pay N100,000 to change tickets."

READ MORE: http://bit.ly/2qFqdHX

FG EXPANDS TRADERMONI SCHEME TO THREE ADDITIONAL MARKETS IN LAGOS

…As Osinbajo, Ambode, Sanwo-Olu Monitor Implementation



The Federal Government on Monday launched the special enterprise and empowerment programme otherwise known as TraderMoni in three additional markets in Lagos, with an assurance that the scheme would be extended to two million beneficiaries by December 2018 across the country.



The TraderMoni scheme, which is a collateral and interest-free loan for petty traders, had earlier been launched in some markets in Lagos, while three additional markets in the State – Ketu, Bariga and Oshodi were added to the scheme by Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), accompanied by Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode and the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship candidate in the State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu.



The trio, while inspecting implementation of the scheme, took time to interact with petty traders in the markets, assuring that government would continue to come up with innovative initiatives to benefit the critical mass of the population.



Giving details, Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Publicity, Mr Laolu Akande, said close to 800,000 petty traders had so far benefited from the scheme, adding that the programme had been structured for traders to borrow up to N50,000 and repay back seamlessly.



“The TraderMoni scheme is part of the socio-investment programme of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration and the plan is to ensure that between September and December this year, two million petty traders receive the first payment of N10,000. Once they are able to return it within six months, they get additional N15,000 and when they return that, they get another N20,000 until they get as much as N50,000.



“The whole idea is that the President wants to ensure that traders that are at the bottom of the ladder; people whose wares and businesses are just about N3000, N5000 and so on; people who normally don’t get any kind of financial assistance; people that the banks do not give any kind of credit because they have no collateral are not left out in what they are doing in our micro credit scheme.



“This was what informed the TraderMoni Programme and today, it has gone to several states and the Vice President is in Lagos today to see what is happening in three additional markets. The VP is here to see what is happening and to interact with the traders, as well as to assure all Nigerians as a matter of fact that this is going to go round,” Akande said.



He added that at the end of the first batch, the government would take it further to ensure that more traders benefit from the scheme.



 “In the first batch of the scheme, we will be doing two million traders and after that, we will even take it further. Between now and December, we would have given to two million petty traders. Already, we have close to 800,000 petty traders out of the two million. We have enumerated all the two million traders and so we know who they are and so it is a question of time,” he said.

OSHODI TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE: LAGOS TARGETS FIRST QUARTER 2019 DELIVERY DATE

…Says Project Now At 83 Per Cent Completion Stage

 AgegePulse Magazine

The Lagos State Government on Monday said the ongoing Oshodi Transport Interchange conceived and being implemented to evolve a seamless way by which Lagosians commute across the State on a daily basis would be completed within the first quarter of 2019.



Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Adebowale Akinsanya, in a statement on the state of the project, said it was gratifying to report that substantial progress had been made towards its completion. 



The Commissioner added that with the ongoing pace of works, the project would be completed within the first quarter of 2019, and operations commencing soon after, saying that commuters around the State should look forward to having a comfortable, accessible and world-class transport system.



Besides, Akinsanya commended motorists and residents in the State for cooperating with government in the implementation of the project, just as he assured that all hands were on deck to expedite work and complete it on schedule. 



According to him, “At the moment, 83 per cent total work progress has been achieved, including completion of piling works on the three terminals and completion of the piling works for the Skywalks.



“Among others, we have also completed works on the pile caps for the three terminals, concrete works of the buildings, ground floor works on all the loading bays for the three terminals, erection of steelworks for the Skywalks and terminals and Taxi Park and car park area, while road works around the terminal are at an advanced stage as well as bus holding bays around the terminals also at an advanced stage,” Akinsanya said.



The Oshodi Transport Interchange Project (OTIP) which is part of the Bus Reform Initiative of the State Government, is an iconic infrastructure designed to transform the axis forever and enhance connectivity.



The project, in a nutshell, seeks to transform Oshodi into a world-class Central Business District (CBD) with business, travel and leisure activities conducted in a serene, secure, clean, orderly and hygienic environment, comparable with other transport terminals around the world including Stratford and Victoria Bus Station in the United Kingdom.



The project, on completion, would consolidate all the 13 city and interstate bus parks into three multi-storey terminals, providing standard facilities including waiting area, loading bays, ticketing stands, drivers lounge, parking areas, rest rooms, accessible walkways and pedestrian sky-walks linking all the terminals.

#AmbodeLegacies #AkinwunmiAmbode #ItesiwajuEkolivesforever

Lagos Already Implementing Key Policies To Ensure Inclusion, Prosperity - Gov. Ambode

…Says Empowerment of All Groups, Key To Ending Extreme Poverty

…Delivers 75th Anniversary Lecture At Island Club

AgegePulse Magazine


Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday said if Nigeria must get out of the woods, it must begin now to take concrete steps towards empowering every group in the society and give ears to their views and aspirations, saying it is only in such situation that the country can truly end extreme poverty.



Governor Ambode, who said this while delivering a paper to commemorate the 75th Anniversary Business Lecture of the Island Club, said Nigeria must aggressively pursue strong social inclusion policies in order to build a virile nation where every member of the society, regardless of their status or creed is catered for.



Speaking on the topic ‘Nation Building: Communities, Inclusion and Prosperity’, the Governor said presently there were various indices that present a worrying picture, stressing that the country must address it by taking actions that would change the narrative and engender prosperity.



“A sustainable path towards ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity also involves creating an inclusive society, not only in terms of economic welfare but also in terms of the voice and empowerment of all groups.



“We must begin to realise that every strata of the society counts, we must listen and accommodate all views, whether they are poor, whether they are Igbos, Hausas, whether they are Muslims or Christians. An inclusive society must have the institutions, structures and processes that empower local communities, professional associations, artisans, CDAs so they can hold government accountable.



“It also requires the participation of all groups in society, including traditionally marginalised groups such as ethnic minorities and indigenous populations in decision making processes,” he said.



Highlighting the Lagos example of inclusion and prosperity, Governor Ambode said his administration in the last three years, despite the population and migration challenges vis-a-vis pressure on physical and social infrastructure, has continued to carry out massive upgrade of its infrastructure, which according to him would have improve the lives of all residents and ultimately the economy.



“We believe that every Lagosian must have the opportunity to grow, develop their own skills and contribute to their families and communities in a meaningful way.



“If they are healthy, well educated and trained to enter the workforce and are able to make a decent wage, they are better equipped to meet their basic needs and be successful. Their families will also do well and the whole society will benefit. The aggregate sum of family well-being is the meat for nation building,” he said.



The Governor said that his administration has concentrated on creating an environment for investments to thrive, saying that deliberate steps were also taken to encourage the private sector to take the front seat and grow the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the State.



He listed development of Tourism, Hospitality, Arts, Sports and Entertainment sectors, development of an integrated and modern inter-modal transportation system, Employment Trust Fund, CodeLagos and Ready-Set-Work as some of the strategies evolved over the last three years that has recorded huge impact in the State’s economy.



“Our Employment Trust Fund has disbursed N5.84billion to 7, 880 Lagosians out of which 1,123 have fully repaid their loans. This is a revolving fund that targets inclusion and prosperity.



“Over 25,000 jobs were created through the loans and employability programmes and to ensure inclusion, 3,613 women recievedN2.29billion while N1.44billion was disbursed to individuals less than 35 years and at least N100million in each local government of the State,” Governor Ambode said.



“In terms of inclusion and prosperity, our vision to make Lagos safer and more prosperous is driven by the need to foster and build an inclusive society, a Lagos that works for all of us. This has been our primary focus in the last three and half years.



“This vision of making Lagos Africa’s model mega city and global economic and financial hub is reflected in everything that we have been doing, bringing our communities together to ensure the future prosperity of Lagos State is non negotiable. I am convinced that we are on the right trajectory and that’s the way to go if Lagos is going to show a very good example to the rest of the country,” he said.



Recommending the way forward, Governor Ambode said to ensure inclusion and evolve prosperous communities; social policy needs to move beyond conventional social service approaches towards development’s goals of equitable opportunity and social justice.



Expressing optimism that the Nigeria economy was showing positive indices of recovery and encouraging outlook for the future, the Governor, however, said economists had posited that for Nigeria to attain its potential, the economy needs to move at a growth rate of six to seven per cent per year as the population growth was above three per cent.



“To meet our growth ambition, we need jobs and we need to increase productivity too. Nigeria has the advantage of a large population, but the majority are under-skilled. It is imperative to equip workers with the skills needed to keep pace with an economy in transition like Nigeria,” he said.



“We need to close that in economic and political gap between women and men in this country. Providing both girls and boys with education is going to be our first step. Quality education is the basis for job and income, a modern competitive economy needs the best heads and hands regardless of gender. This is just sound economics and simple common sense.



“Government needs to implement structural reforms to enhance efficiency, making valued long term investment in technology and science to support research and development. In addition, government also needs to support the economy to provide jobs for their fast growing job population,” Governor Ambode said.



Earlier, Chairman of Island Club in his welcome address thanked Governor Ambode for his support to the Club since he assumed office, saying that he had not only followed the footsteps of his predecessors as Patron of the Club, but had on some occasions, moved a notch further than they did.



Also speaking, a former chairman of the Club, Chief Olumuyiwa Falomo lauded the Governor for his developmental strides in the last three and half years, assuring him that history would be kind to him.



“Only God knows the future, just carry on regardless, the reward of being very conscientious with what you do will come sooner than later and my prayer for you is that God will guide you and the sky will be your limit,” Falomo said.



Highlight of the lecture was the launch of the anniversary brochure and the commissioning of the car park project initiated by the club.

ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY KEY TO NIGERIA’S ECONOMIC GROWTH, OSINBAJO, AMBODE INSISTS

…As VP Holds Special Evening With Stakeholders In Lagos

Nigeria’s Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo and Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Friday evening re-emphasised the importance of the entertainment industry to Nigeria’s economic growth, assuring that the sector would continue to enjoy support to maximize its potentials.



The duo spoke at an event organised for entertainers and tagged “An Evening with the Vice President” held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island and was well attended by scores of entertainers including actors, comedians and musicians, among others.



Osinbajo reassured stakeholders in the entertainment industry of the Federal Government’s commitment to support them to enhance national growth and development, adding that they remain key players in the nation’s all round development and Government was not oblivious of it.



The Vice President said he had met frequently with entertainers with a view to developing policies around the industry for economy growth, revealing that the government decided to create Technology and Creativity Advisory Council to see how the government could move the industry forward through proper policies, especially on how to address the issue of piracy.

“No sensible politician can ignore entertainers; if you do, you do so at your own risk. Entertainers also cannot ignore politicians; it is impossible. If you do, you do so at your own peril.



“Already, there is a lot going on. Your industry has to respond to what is going on. This industry is important and crucial to our economy.



“We must set up the environment that will make it happen. No environment is completely ready; whatever it is that we have at the moment, we have to make the maximum use of it to grow this industry,” he said.



He said it was gratifying that some entertainers were already in politics and urged others to participate, in order to make a change and a difference.



“Your support is actually important. What we need to do is to sit together and solve the problem. The country is what it is today because some people stole the treasure,” he said.



In his remarks, Governor Ambode said the State had always been the hub for entertainers and would continue to support the industry to grow the State’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).



He also called for synergy between the Government and entertainers in order to create a convergence to grow the economy of not just the State, but also Nigeria.



“I just want to promise this time around that whatever it is that we have done as a government in the last three and half years, we have proven that the arts and entertainment industry can actually create a convergence with the culture of the city and then promote tourism using that convergence to grow the economy of Lagos and we have proven that.



“So, beyond our action there are other things that have to do with the framework, the things that have to do with copyright and access to capital to promote the entertainment industry and I hope that within the next one hour, we should be able to tell ourselves the truth on which way we can actually push this synergy to create that grows the GDP, not only of Lagos but the GDP of the whole country and we would be able to attract tourists to this country,” Governor Ambode said.

Also speaking, Sen. Goodwill Akpabio, who promised to support the industry as he had also been, assured the entertainers of government’s readiness to help them on issues of legislation.



Akpabio, who noted that the artistes were ambassadors of the country, urged them to promote Nigeria’s oneness.



Many of the artistes, who spoke at the event, identified the challenges in the industry as piracy, distribution of artistic works, poor power supply, lack of infrastructure, censorship, licensing, and access to credit facilities, among others.

AMBODE, COWLSO, INSTRUMENTAL TO EMERGENCE OF LAKE RICE - ALH. ATIKU BAGUDU

Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu (2nd right) supported by Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (2nd left) & his wife and chairman, Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Bolanle (L); and Chairman, Conference Planning Committee, Dr. (Mrs.) Arinola Oluwo (r), to present Certificate of Appreciation to the CEO Emzor Pharm. Company, Dr. Stella Okoli OON (m), as a friend of COWLSO, during the closing ceremony of their 18th National Women’s Conference, at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites

kebbi State Governor, Atiku Bagudu today said that the emergence of LAKE Rice would not have been possible without  Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, supported by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials, COWLSO.

Bagudu spoke at the closing ceremony of the three-day 18thNational Women’s Conference, organized by COWLSO, held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island area of Lagos.

Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu (3rd left) & his wife, Zainab (2nd left); Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (4th left) & his wife and chairman, Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Bolanle (4th right); Deputy Governor, Mrs. Idiat Oluranti Adebule (3rd right);  wife of the APC State chairman, Alhaja Tolani Balogun (2nd right); and CEO. Emzor Pharm. Company, Dr. Stella Okoli OON (r) 

He said the partnership between Kebbi and Lagos had helped to improve the economy of Lagos and Nigeria in terms of local production of rice.

“Without Ambode, there will not have been LAKE Rice. The significant of LAKE Rice was that it encouraged a revival of ‘I can do it spirit,” he submitted.

He said the emergence of LAKE Rice had help the nation to reduce the importation of rice by 90 percent, as captured by President Muhammadu Buhari recently when he met the British Prime Minister, Theresa May.

“Without Ambode, we won’t have been able to do that and that was because he got the support of his wife, who is the Chairman of COWLSO. His wife supported the idea and that was why it was successful,” he said.

Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu (2nd right) supported by Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (2nd left) & his wife and chairman, Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Bolanle (L); and Chairman, Conference Planning Committee, Dr. (Mrs.) Arinola Oluwo (r), to present Certificate of Appreciation to the MD. Eko Hotels, Mr. Danny Kioupouroglou (m), as a friend of COWLSO

Bagudu, however, said COWLSO had done tremendously well by organizing the conference over the years in order to reposition women and take them to an enviable position in the society, adding that he was impressed that women in Lagos could take time off their busy schedule, to gather in a place to network and educate themselves on issues that affected women and society.

In his remark, Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode commended COWLSO for organizing the annual event, saying that his wife, Bolanle had been able to take the committee to a higher level than she met it.

The governor said he had no doubt that the three-day programme provided opportunities for networking and education among the women, adding that the opportunity to be part of the conference was a privilege that came with responsibilities.

“You have a responsibility to share your experience with others around you. This is the only way you can deepen what you have learnt at the programme. Government will give attention to the recommendation in the communiqué,” he promised.

Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu (5th right); Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode (m) & his wife and chairman, Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), Bolanle (5th left); Deputy Governor, Mrs. Idiat Oluranti Adebule (4th right); wife of fmr. governor, Mrs. Gladys Ndubuisi Kanu (3rd right); APC Lagos women Leader, Hon. Jumoke Okoya-Thomas (2nd right); rep of HOS, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Balogun (r); APC South-West Women Leader, Chief (Mrs.) Kemi Nelson (3rd left); rep. of Senator Remi Tinubu OON (2nd left); and rep. of the wife of the governor of Ondo State, Mrs. Titi Adeyemi (L)

In her speech, wife of the Governor of Lagos State and Chairman of COWLSO, Mrs Bolanle Ambode, urged the 3,000 participants at the conference, to reflect the knowledge acquired in all personal endeavours, and also try to pass on the knowledge to achieve desired impact on society.

She said in one of the papers, titled “Successful Marriage needs, Passion and Perseverance,” women were told to define their preferences in life and ensure that the partners they chose shared much of their personal perspective and worldview, adding that perseverance, interaction and communication, played vital roles in the success of marriages.

She further said in another topic on “Strengthening our Collective Impact: Parenting Digital Kids,” the speaker addressed how parents could protect their children from the harmful side-effects of technology and how they could insulate them from digital explosion, so that they could make responsible choices in life.

According to her, the speaker was quick to point out the fact that while the goal of parenting remained the same, methods and approaches of training children must change, stressing that entirely disconnecting children from the digital world might be counter-productive, and giving them unfettered access to every digital content might also be counter-productive.

“There is the need to ensure that our children acquire relevant skills, so as to make balanced adjustments. The speaker noted further that there has been a major erosion of core values and therefore encouraged participants, to stick to enduring values and identity,” she said.

However, a communiqué issued at the end of the three-day conference and read by the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, said the conference resolved that women should acquire necessary skills to live desired life; be brave, conquer fear of failure;       have the ability to recover from issues of life; choose their priorities for success; acquire propelling purpose needed for success; be passionate about what they were convinced about and have the right attitude for a successful marriage, the choice of man and family and by defining their goals which should be shared by their partners.

The communique also noted the need to establish process of communication and interaction in marriage and develop perseverance by uniquely developing one’s will power; while women should begin to plan for their retirement by assessing the situation, as well as seek advice from professionals.

The communiqué further charged women to invest and save on regular basis but that they should never put their eggs in one basket, while encouraging them to speak out and seek help when in abusive relationship or see others being abused, as well as know their rights under the law.

Paul Blog

LAGOS OPEN: WE’LL SET UP TENNIS ACADEMY TO ATTRACT GLOBAL ATTENTION- AMBODE

…Says Future Tournaments Can Attract World Class Players

 AgegePulse Magazine

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Saturday said the State Government will fully support the setting up of a Lawn Tennis Academy in the State that would make the annual Lagos Open International Tennis Championship attract the global attention that it truly deserves.



Governor Ambode, who spoke at the finals of the 2018 Lagos Open Championship held at the Lawn Tennis Club in Onikan, Lagos, said the State Government has held talks with the State’s Lawn Tennis Association to open up an academy with state-of-the-art facilities that would attract world class players in future competitions.  



“This is the beginning of the support that Lagos State will continue to give to Lagos Open. The whole idea is for us to be able to move away from this particular location and set up a Lawn Tennis Academy that can actually have an upgrade of a world class competition.



“They have actually spoken to us that we need to open an academy. You see, what we have here on this ground is just seven courts, but if you want it to be globally attended and we want this Lagos Open to be globally competitive, we need an academy that would have like 16 courts and have other facilities to attract world class players and that is what Lagos is ready to partner with the association and because we want the name Lagos on the world map, Lagos State Government has to support the idea of a lawn tennis academy and that is where we are going,” he said.



The Governor commended the organisers and officials of the Lawn Tennis Association for sustaining the tradition, adding that the State Government was proud to be partners in progress with the 18-year old competition which was called The Governors Cup before it metamorphosed to the Lagos Open.



“I want to clearly say that I have enjoyed this particular tournament and I don’t think I have actually sat down somewhere for three hours in a long while. I want to congratulate the winners and also commend the officials and organisers and anytime anywhere, I would always come around because I am a lover of lawn tennis,” he said.

Earlier, the Governor displayed his tennis skills when he took part in a demonstration match as part of activities at the championship.



Governor Ambode, who played against the tennis captain of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan, specifically showed some of his drop shot, backhand and top spin skills, with the spectators applauding while the match lasted.



Presenting an award of special recognition to Governor Ambode, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee of the Lagos Open, Chief Pius Akinyelure said the Association deemed it fit to recognise the Governor for his “enviable, untiring and significant support in the last few years towards the success of the competition”.



In the exciting Lagos Open Men’s final match, Jack Draper of Great Britain defeated Tom Jomby from France to emerge winner of the competition.

Continue to preach hope, peace, unity, Ambode urges religious leaders

…As Osinbajo, Gov attend 58th Independence Service in Lagos

Agegepulse Magazine

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Sunday urged religious leaders to see the period as a time to continue to preach the message of hope, peace, unity, integrity and religious tolerance and intensify prayers for God’s intervention and restoration of hope in the future of Nigeria.

Governor Ambode, who spoke at a special Independence Interdenominational Service, held at the headquarters of the Deeper Life Bible Church Headquarters in Gbagada, Lagos, said he was optimistic that the best of Nigeria and the State was yet to come, urging Nigerians to continue to pray, hope and work for a better future for all.

"My brothers and sisters in the Lord, at this auspicious period in the history of our nation, the Church and indeed everyone who believes in the efficacy of prayer have a responsibility and patriotic duty to pray for the wellbeing and progress of our nation. I believe strongly that the best of our nation and our State is yet to come. Let us continue to pray, hope and work for a better future,” he said.

He said that as the nation prepares to go to the polls next year, all hands must be on deck to sustain and deepen the process that will result in sustainable growth and good governance for all, just as he urged Nigerians to eschew all tendencies that may aggravate the challenges being experienced at the moment.

“As we celebrate our 58 years independence anniversary, I urge us to remain steadfast and continue to uphold those values that have been passed down from our heroes who sacrificed so much to liberate us from the yokes of colonial rule.

“Today’s occasion is also coming at a critical time in the history of our nation when all hands must be on deck to sustain and deepen the process that will result in sustainable growth and good governance for our people.   We must all get involved and work together to ensure that the potentials of this nation are fully realized for the benefit of everyone and future generations,” he said.

He specifically commended the General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor W. F. Kumuyi, for his dedication and commitment shown towards the propagation of Christianity and the service of God over the years, adding that he (Kumuyi) had continued to impact the lives of many globally through inspirational teaching of the Word of God.

Governor Ambode also lauded the contributions of the church in the State, saying that the Gbagada community has benefited immensely from their various corporate social responsibility projects initiated by the church.

“I congratulate the Deeper Life Bible Church on this magnificent edifice you have put up here. I was unable to join you for the formal opening but I am very happy to worship in this sanctuary today as we celebrate another anniversary of our Independence.

“As I congratulate you on this new Church building, I also thank you for the good works you have done in the Gbagada Community. Your holistic approach to religious activities has been demonstrated in your corporate social responsibility actions especially the construction of the Oduwole Bridge and a multi-level car park to ease traffic in this community.

“You have demonstrated that the Church can play a lot of roles in nation building. Beyond the spiritual role of praying for the Government, the Church can also partner with the Government to make our communities a better place,” the Governor said.

He said his administration, in furtherance to the efforts of the church, embarked on the construction of a network of six roads identified by the community development associations, including Aderemi Akeju Street, Okun Street, Femi Kuti Street, Brown Road, Adegbenro/Ganiyat Dawodu Street and Yetunde Brown Street.

Governor Ambode said the contract for the road, which was awarded in September 2017 was already 60 percent completed and is expected to be concluded by the end of the first quarter of 2019, while adding that adjoining road networks such as Diya Street and Ajayi Aina streets have been scheduled for rehabilitation to further enhance road connectivity within the axis.

“For us as government, we will continue to promote fairness, justice and everything that will make life more comfortable for our people,” he said.

Also speaking, Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo in his message titled ‘Coming of Age’, said Nigerians must come to the realisation that the destiny of the country was in their hands and as such must continue to make concerted efforts to promote values that unite rather than divide us.