2024 Lagos Boat Regatta: Lagos Will Explore More Tourism Opportunities On Waterways, Says Sanwo-Olu

Yomi Durojaye 

 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Saturday said his government will continue to explore waterways to develop a strong ecosystem for tourism and further expand the transportation system in the State.

Gov. Sanwo-Olu, L: Deputy Gov. Dr. Hazmat, R: Commissioner for Tourism, Hon. Mrs. Toke-Benson 

He said his administration is committed to unlocking tourism potential to further grow the economy of the State.

Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke on Saturday during the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta with the theme "Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life," held at Victoria Island and across various locations in the five divisions of the State—Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe. 

He said the Lagos Boat Regatta is a demonstration of what Lagos stands for and a transformation and revival of culture, noting that the idea is a shared vision for showcasing the beauty of Lagos State water tourism potential for the enjoyment of residents.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who embarked on a boat ride with his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and some State Executive Council members, urged Lagosians to take advantage of the opportunity to unwind and be entertained as they enjoy the ambience of the Boat Regatta, sight and sound of the state.

He said: "We are indeed excited that we can finally have a boat regatta, the beginning of what will be a lot of activities that are going to happen during this yuletide season. It is a demonstration of our commitment to developing tourism potential in Lagos.

"You know one third of Lagos is surrounded by water. So, we need to be able to use our waterways not only as a means of transportation but as a strong ecosystem for tourism, and today you will be seeing displays of various sizes of water infrastructure and displays of boat regattas from the five divisions of Lagos.

"It is going to be a day and afternoon of sheer tourism, fun, and understanding the beauty of the waterways of Lagos looks like. Let us relax, sit back, and enjoy the beauty of the serenity and tourism potential of the state and the hospitality of Lagos."

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said the Lagos Boat Regatta 2024 was aimed to immerse participants in the rich culture of the state's waterway.

Benson-Awoyinka said the event serves as a driver of economic growth to boost tourism and create opportunities for local businesses, and it further cements Lagos’ reputation as a premier global destination.

The Commissioner said the event highlighted the vibrant community heritage and sustainability practices through an engaging as well as multi-sensory experience weaving together parades, dance performances, and innovative space layouts with captivating images.

She said: "This year's theme, 'Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life,' underscores the integral role our waterways play in shaping our history and identity as Lagosians. The Regatta is not only a showcase of our vibrant traditions but also a testament to our shared commitment to fostering tourism, cultural pride, and unity. 

"Through the dazzling display of decorated boats, exhilarating traditional races, and captivating water sports, we celebrate the boundless creativity and dynamism of our people. Beyond its cultural significance, this event serves as a driver of economic growth by boosting tourism and creating opportunities for local businesses. It further cements Lagos’ reputation as a premier global destination.

"I wish to commend the visionary leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, whose unwavering dedication to the development of our waterways and tourism infrastructure has made events like this possible. His administration's efforts in promoting sustainability and environmental conservation are truly commendable and align perfectly with the essence of this occasion."

LASRERA: LASG Committed To Creating Ecosystem That Fosters Economic Growth, Says Sanwo-Olu

...As FG, Ooni, stakeholders commend Lagos on real estate development 

(M) Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, (L) Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadiri Hazmat and SA to Governor on Housing, Barr. Barakat Odunuga-Bakare at the LASRERA 5th Real Estate MarketPlace Conference and Exhibition 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday said his administration is committed to creating an ecosystem that supports the economic growth of the State through real estate, which plays a critical role in the development and growth of Lagos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, disclosed that the State is set to introduce an integrated, effective and efficient waste management system in collaboration with international partners. 

The Governor and other stakeholders spoke on Tuesday at the 5th Lagos Real Estate Marketplace Conference and Exhibitions held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. 

The conference is an avenue created by the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) to provide an enabling environment and transparent platform for stakeholders in the real estate sector. 

Speaking during the conference, Governor Sanwo-Olu said his administration is committed to building a thriving real estate sector.

He said, "As a government, we remain steadfast in our efforts to building a thriving real estate sector by prioritising human capital development, to ensure we have skilled professionals capable of driving innovation. We are equally committed to establishing sustainable regulations that protect practitioners and consumers alike while fostering an integrated ecosystem that links housing development with transportation, technology, agriculture, health, and youth development.

"We consistently draw inspiration from global trends and best practices to inform our policies and programs. Today’s distinguished speakers, moderators, and panellists bring invaluable insights, and we are confident that their contributions will enrich our collective vision for the real estate sector.

"We understand that the pace of change is accelerating, and partnerships with private sector players are essential. This forum is an opportunity to co-create pathways for upskilling and reskilling the workforce while ensuring the sector’s accessibility and sustainability."

Governor Sanwo-Olu also disclosed his administration's commitment to collaboration and progress in the real estate sector is yielding positive results. 

He said his administration, based on the recommendations from the 4th Marketplace held in 2023, has made considerable strides in establishing a comprehensive developer database to enhance transparency, reducing bureaucracy in development permits to streamline processes, and implementing various measures to improve safety and consumer protection.

"Our ongoing initiatives reflect our determination to integrate sustainability into every facet of real estate development. From investing in renewable energy to advancing intermodal transportation systems, promoting technology-driven urban planning, and delivering sustainable housing solutions, we are laying the groundwork for a Lagos that balances economic growth with environmental responsibility and social equity. 

"Achieving a sustainable future is not a task for the government alone—it requires collective action. Public-private collaboration is critical for driving innovation, financing sustainable projects, and creating inclusive regulations. It also ensures that opportunities for growth and contribution are accessible to all, including women, youth, and marginalised communities.

"As we deliberate on the future of real estate in Lagos, let us commit to equipping ourselves and our successors with the knowledge, tools, and resources to build a state that is equitable, prosperous, and sustainable."

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Housing, Hon. Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, said the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration has strengthened its framework to ensure sustainable urban development and will ensure continuous policies and upgrades of existing laws while also increasing enforcement and capacity building. 

"As we re-imagine Lagos, let us commit to embracing and strengthening the regulatory frameworks that will guide us toward a resilient, inclusive, and vibrant city.

"Every architect, developer, financier, policymaker and citizen has a role to play in this journey. Together, we can create a Lagos where progress meets purpose and development respects the delicate balance of nature and community," he said. 

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing, Barr. Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, described the event as an assembly of experts to drive sustainable growth, innovation, inclusivity, and sustainable development practices. She called for collaboration between the public and private sectors towards ensuring resilient physical landscapes for Lagos State.

Odunuga-Bakare said the real estate sector remains a significant pillar of Lagos State’s socio-economic development, providing employment opportunities, enhancing urban infrastructure, and driving economic growth. 

She said the Lagos State Government has strengthened its regulatory frameworks through enhanced building codes, disaster-resilient urban planning, and initiatives to promote the use of sustainable building materials and technologies.

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Architect Ahmed Musa Dangiwa; Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Housing and Habitat, Hon Abdulmumin Jibrin; and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, among others, during their remarks commended the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration for its commitment to the housing and real estate sectors.

During the event there were different panel sessions on Integrating Green Building Standards in Lagos Real Estate, Flooding and Ecosystem Preservation in Urban Landscapes, Protecting Lagos Physical and Natural Resources, among others.

Work To Resume On Pen Cinema Bridge, Says Sanwo-Olu

…Lagos Governor, Deputy Inspect Road Repair Exercise In Iju-Agege Areas

AgegePulse Magazine

There will soon be respite for motorists plying Agege-Pen Cinema axis in Lagos, as State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu assures accelerated completion of the abandoned Pen-Cinema Bridge.

The Governor spoke on Sunday while inspecting ongoing rehabilitation work on major roads in Iju area of the state by Lagos State Public Works Corporation.

Sanwo-Olu, in company of his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said the contractor handling the bridge construction was being prepared for re-mobilisation back on the site.

Expressing concern over the pains residents go through due to regular gridlock on the alternative routes occasioned by abandoned project, Sanwo-Olu said his government would compensate for the discomfort by ensuring timely completion of the bridge.

He said: “I can assure you that we are currently in talks with the contractors handling key road projects in Ikorodu, which are Igbogbo and Ishawo roads, and also a critical project in Agege area, which is the Pen-Cinema Bridge.

Our promise is that, if it is not by end of this month; then, by next month, the contractors will be fully mobilised back on sites to complete the work.

“We are particularly concerned about the pain motorists are going through because of the incomplete construction of Pen-Cinema Bridge. We are hoping that the contractor handling the bridge construction, too, will be mobilised back on site. Once we push these three critical infrastructures and get them completed, relief would come to residents in these areas.”

The Governor said the ongoing road repair across the state was an outcome of his Executive Order, which declared emergency rehabilitation of critical roads.

Sanwo-Olu said the repair was being carried out in six segments, pointing out that the highways and arterial carriages were captured in the first set of repair across the state.

He said repair work would begin on roads captured in other segments in succession. The Governor urged commuters to be patient while the repair is being carried out.

He expressed satisfaction on the level of work done, while assuring that the road rehabilitation would be ongoing to until 100 major roads marked for repair in all Local Government Areas across the state get done.

Sanwo-Olu said his administration would continue to be responsive to the challenges confronting the people, assuring the actions of his government would focus on bringing relief to taxpayers.

“We have risen up to the expectations of Lagosians and we believe there is still a lot more to do. It is a work in progress. But we can feel the immediate relief that are coming to residents of all the areas where the rehabilitation work is being done currently,” the Governor said.

Also joining the Governor during the inspection is the Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, and General Manager of Lagos State Public Works Corporation, Engr. Daramola Olufemi.