Ambode disburses N1bn to 705 beneficiaries of N25bn ETF

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday, January 26, 2017, presented cheques worth over N1billion to 705 beneficiaries of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (ETF) pilot scheme, charging them to utilise the funds responsibly to grow their businesses, create jobs for the unemployed youths and contribute to the growth of the Lagos economy.

Governor Ambode, who made the presentation at the LTV Blue Roof, Ikeja,

Lagos, said his administration identified unemployment as a major socio-economic challenge facing Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole in the course of the electoral campaign, and thus prioritised job creation.

He said the setting up of the ETF was a direct response to address the challenge of unemployment as well as provide support to the youths, entrepreneurs, artisans and other unemployed residents of the State.

“We have kept our word. We created a dedicated Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, whose mission is to promote and sustain entrepreneurship and employment,” the Governor said.

Governor Ambode, while commending the Board and Management of the Fund for embarking on a comprehensive review of the business environment and developing a strategic framework and operating guidelines to ensure the sustainable and successful management of these funds, said the successful disbursement was a product of the painstaking effort.

He said the funds are targeted at small and medium scale businesses and individuals including carpenters, hairdressers, electricians, automobile parts repairers, block makers, bakers, fashion designers, cake makers, food sellers, kerosene retailers, mobile money agents, painters, plumbers, photographers and light manufacturers of liquid soaps and water among others.

“These beneficiaries are making history as the first set of beneficiaries of this Employment Trust Fund, and my charge to you is simple: You must use these funds responsibly, grow your businesses, create jobs for our unemployed youths and contribute to the growth of the Lagos State GDP. The idea is that for every N1million we disburse, we should create a minimum of five jobs around that business value chain.

“These loans have been provided at a very affordable rate of 5% per annum, far cheaper than the prevailing bank interest of 25% per annum. This is our modest way of reflating the Lagos economy, creating jobs and getting our youths gainfully occupied. Those of you here today, the first beneficiaries of this initiative, will be the agents through which our country can overcome its current economic challenges,” Governor Ambode said.

The Governor also enjoined market women and female artisans to take advantage of the opportunity as his administration was particularly interested in supporting women in business.

“I also implore the Employment Trust Fund to pay special attention to the Entertainment Industry and the Tech Hubs in Sabo, Yaba area. These are new areas with huge potential for growth and job creation,” he said.

Governor Ambode also expressed optimism that the target by the Board to empower at least 100,000 micro, small and medium enterprises in due course was achievable and that the multiplier effect would be the creation of over 300,000 direct and 600,000 indirect jobs by 2019.

In her opening remarks, Chairman, Board of ETF, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru said the presentation of cheques to beneficiaries was in fulfillment of the promise made by Governor Ambode during the electioneering and a confirmation of many to come.

She recalled that while canvassing for votes, the need to provide jobs was clearly on the mind of the Governor, and according to her, he wasted no time in setting up the ETF Board made up of people with proven track record, as well as transferring N6.25billion for the initiative to kick off, while the Board ensured that the process was fair and transparent with no favour as to party, religion, tribe or faith, and covered all the 57 Councils in the State.

“While we were trying to come up with the necessary procedures, Governor Ambode kept telling us to hurry up to start disbursing the loans to residents which signified his good intention and he has also given us the mandate to make the disbursement a monthly affair to make the fund get to as many residents as possible,” Omoigui-Okauru said.

Responding on behalf of others, one of the beneficiaries, Ahmed Ojikutu thanked Governor Ambode for the initiative, saying that it was gratifying to note that the process was very transparent.

He said: “This is indeed a promise kept by the Governor. When next the Governor tells us anything, we will believe him and I want to sincerely thank him on behalf of all the beneficiaries.”

LASG Education District 1, Agege Spearheads Sensitization of Deceased Staff Kinsmen Over Death Benefits Claim

Undoubtedly, the number one tag of the Lagos State Education District 1, Agege goes beyond mere nomenclature, the District under the leadership of TGPS/Permanent Secretary, Dr. Yinka Ayandele, has over years proven beyond reasonable doubt to be moving ahead of her contemporaries in unfolding epoch events.

The district took another first recently, spearheading the state’s sensitisation programme for the kinsmen of staff who lost their lives while in active service in the year 2016. The programme was part of the resolve of Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode that all death benefits accrued to any deceased employee of the state is duly and promptly paid to their next-of-kin.

Not less than 14 beneficiaries out of the 18 deceased staff recorded by District 1 in 2016 attended the unprecedented event tagged; “Sensitisation Programme for Beneficiaries of Deceased Staff of Education District 1, Agege”, held at the district’s secretariat in Agege. 

Delivering Governor Akinwunmi Ambode message to the beneficiaries, Dr. Ayandele reiterated the state government’s commitment to take staff welfare sacrosanct whether alive or otherwise. An emotional Ayandele was closed to tears while informing the gathering that the sensitization is to give valuable information to the deceased families on how to approach documentation for the LASG insurance welfare scheme for deceased staff.

Shortly before her speech, special prayers and a minute silence were rendered in honour of the deceased staff. It was an highly emotional moment for the entire gathering most especially the beneficiaries who marveled at how much their deceased loved ones are appreciated by the district even in death.

Expressing her concern and sympathy for the deceased families, Dr. Ayandele eulogised the deceased staff of the District saying they had worked meritoriously and contributed immensely to the growth of education in Lagos, hence the government's resolve to alleviate the burden that their losses would have placed on their families.

While explaining all the documentation processes involved before claiming the insurance death benefits, GM Cosmic Insurance Broker, Mr. Tunde Sanda stated that the beneficiaries must provide the deceased appointment letter, confirmation of appointment letter, Medical certificate of cause of death, death certificate from the National Population Commission, Obituary poster amongst others. Mr. Sanda assured the beneficiaries that the documentation should be processed and sent to their office for claim of benefits within 30 work days.

Representative of Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Olabode Akintunde revealed that the state government has set aside huge amount of money as death benefits in case of any occurrence, adding that ministry of finance is fully ready to assist the beneficiaries with verifiable documents. He stressed that he had never attended this kind of event with such magnitude and importance before while appreciating Dr. Ayandele's foresight for initiating the sensitisation. 

On his part, Mr Segun Osifako, Director, Administration and Human Resources in the district, who spoke in the capacity of Dr. Ayandele, lamented the demise of the district’s staff. He however urged people to be very proactive whenever nature takes its course in this regard by assisting the district through swift submission of necessary documents after the death of any staff for instant processing and claim of the deceased benefits.

Mr Ojo Samuel, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers, Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, commended the government for the initiative, stressing that it will reduce difficulties faced by kinsmen of dead colleagues in accessing death benefits. One of the beneficiaries, Miss Sholanke Moyosore couldn't hide her mixed feelings while speaking to AgegePulse. She said; "as a teenager, this sensitisation is most important to me because prior to now, I didn't know where to go regarding my late father's benefits. Today is highly emotional for me. I have always looked forward to accessing my daddy's benefits from the government but I don’t know how to go about it. I am very delighted for this opportunity. 

The sensitization will go a long way to help next-of-kins access those lying down benefits for the deceased. I Thank Governor Ambode and I appreciate the TGPS for her inestimable motherly care, impressive dispositions, a role model, a leader, mentor and God sent".

Other beneficiaries present at the event include Mr. Akeem Kayode Isiaka, Alhaja Akintunde Lateef, Mr. Adebayo Adekunle, Mr. Kupoluyi E.O, Mr. Anifowoshe Rahman O, Mr. Beckley Babatunde, Sholanke Moyosore O, Mr. Amadi Felix Uche, Olajire Dare and Mr. Fadogba Oluwadare.

NUT Chairman, Agege, Comrade Popoola Amos, NUT Chairman Alimosho, Comrade Ogunwomoju Olusesan, Chairman, ANCOPPS Ifako-Ijaye Zone, Mrs. Alabi Folashade among others were some of the Dignitaries who marked attendance at the event.

Dr. Ayandele later presented cash gift to the beneficiaries of the 18 deaths recorded in 2016 to assist them in processing the death benefits of their loved ones from the state.

HOW WE PLAN TO DECIMATE OUT-OF-SCHOOL PUPILS IN AGEGE - Majiyagbe

Although, statistics have shown that the number of pupils enrollment into Agege primary schools has drastically increased since the square peg for the job was placed in the square hole with the appointment of Hon. Olalekan Olatunde Majiyagbe as the Executive Secretary of Agege Local Government Education Authority, LGEA, the need to further decimate the number of out-of-school children that litter the nooks and crannies of Agege remains on the front burner for him.

In a chat with Agegepulse Magazine, the brilliant dude spoke on the journey so far, the present state of the LGEA and plans to make primary education more interesting and appealing for every child in Agege. Excerpt:

“As a trained psychologist and counselor, I’ve been able to transform and impact lives through counseling. I am one of the team that produced the first gifted and talented child in Lagos state from Yewa Pry School, Agege. The survival of every man is in his brain; your brain generates solutions depending on how you apply it to issues. 

For someone to succeed in life he/she must identify his/her inner treasury. I became a consultant to World Bank on community issues around age 27, which was as a result of the cognitive academic system operating during our time. Our parents were ready to give physical support and assistance to us unlike now that parents are using money to buy their primary roles for their children. It is high time parents worked with teachers to build a better future for our pupils.

“In Agege, we have 50 Pry Schools and 2 special schools for children with special needs. Since I came in, we have been able to increase staff welfare, build more structures, organize periodic staff training for academic improvement and co-curricular activities. It is our believe that out of school children are products of unfavourable economy situations, what we are doing is to partner with market leaders to fish them out, though they are not too many, people use them as maids and as hawkers. We are working to have stakeholders meeting with CDAs and other stakeholders in order to develop a working paper and statistic on them. Through this, we'll proffer solution to that. Till date we have experience massive enrolment into our primary schools because parents appreciate government efforts to make learning accessible and appealing to pupils.

On his proposed 30days traditional dancing steps to mark his 10years investiture as the Asiwaju of Oko Oba Land, Majiyagbe said; "that is a new dimension to publicity, we want to create an euphoria to sensitize people that Asiwaju will soon celebrate 10th year anniversary. And that dancing step is not a regulated approach, I may not be in royal regalia, I can be at a point they will sing and dance and I will inform them to get ready for Asiwaju day. When the day gets closer, there will be royal movement on horse or open roof with guards and they will sing and dance at almost every point to dole out gifts to children all around. And when it gets to the D-day which is June 2017, it will be only church service and reception. I will also use the day to mark my 54th birthday.

On politics, he said; I've a commitment and vision to emerge Agege LG chairman. It's an age long dream because I've the wherewithal to bring succor to my people. We have tailor made plans to make Agege people happy. We’ve a strategy to run a successful Local Government system called Agege Model. I assure you that this model will be emulated by other LGAs in the long run".

Watch out for the full interview in the next edition of AgegePulse Magazine.  

We Have A Master Plan To Give Agege Facelift – Dr. Adejare, Commissioner for Environment

 Recently, AgegePulse had an exclusive interview with the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Samuel Adejare at his Agege residence. Below is an excerpt from the interview: 

“Growing up in the heart of Ebute Meta was quite interesting under the tutelage of my God sent guardian/mother, Chief Mrs. Iyabode Oduwole of blessed memory. She was the architect of everything you see in me today. My only regret in life is the fact that she is not alive today to witness how her mentorship regime served as the solid foundation for my success in life (Dr. Adejare weeps). Our mandate from Mr. Governor is to ensure a clean and flood free environment that is conducive for all. Part of it is to plant 10million trees by 2020. We’ve grown about 7million trees as at today, we are sure of surpassing our target by 2020. We urge every individual to imbibe the culture of planting a tree to mark important days (birthday, wedding, anniversary, e.t.c) in their lives. This will aid our resolve for a greener environment.

The monthly Environmental Sanitation was cancelled because we were convinced that shutting down Lagos for 3hrs of every last Saturday of the month is a disgrace to us, cleaning our environment should be our way of life. We will embark on viral sensitization and education of our people on the need to be mindful of the importance of a clean environment. Our blueprint for Lagos environment will cater for the nooks and crannies of the state.

Talking about Agege, Hon. Adejare said; “We have a master plan for Agege and Governor Ambode is very interested in it. In terms of flood in Agege and Orile Agege, there are plans to start a massive drainage system in areas like Akilo, Alaagba, Pero, Papa, Agbotikuyo, Dopemu amongst others to address flooding and environmental issues in the area. Before the end of this administration, the railway area of Agege will also witness massive facelift. They are all in our plans and our working Governor has keyed into it.”

On why he dumped Medicine for Politics, he said; “A typical doctor is a politician, the study of Medicine is to make people comfortable and Politics is to take good governance to the people with quality representation while ensuring people live comfortably. Medicine and Politics are interwoven in terms of end result. As a medical student, I represented the department all through my six years in school.”

Watch out for the full interview in the next edition of Agegepulse Magazine.

SPEECH DELIVERED AT INAUGURATION OF IBILE PEACEFULLY ASSEMBLY, AGEGE CHAPTER.

SPEECH DELIVERED AT INAUGURATION OF IBILE PEACEFULLY ASSEMBLY, AGEGE CHAPTER.

Delivered by: Hajia Fatimah Mohammed on Friday 30^th, December, 2016

It gives me great pleasure and satisfaction, to welcome you all to this historic inauguration of Agege Chapter of Ibile peaceful revolution Assembly.

 ”This inauguration is historic and symbolic because the enemies of Ibile peaceful assembly did not want this day to come to be. That is why, you will look round today and not see Saheed Mosadoluwa (Mr. Ibile) on seat.” Our distracters have cooked some fake stories to keep him behind the bars, but be rest assured that no matter how long lies and deceit travels, truth will always catch up with it.

I will use this opportunity to salute the courage and commitment of all Ibile members in this trying period and most particularly the doggedness of the Agege Chapter to go ahead with today’s inauguration, despite all the intimidations.

The Nigerian state is at a very critical junction in its history. The state of the nation can only be described as perilous.

 Officially the Nigerian economy is in a recession for the first time in 25 years. Yet the federal government is as helpless as a blind rat in a brain. “The objective of Ibile peaceful revolution is to bring about a re-arrangement of the table and re-distribution of the common resources so that it gets to the common people on the street.

 Ibile peaceful Assembly is a non-partisan body that is only interested in ensuring that round pegs are put in round holes.

We shall provide support for our members (whom we know to be of good character and have the capacity to deliver good life to the generality of the people) in any political camp they find themselves whenever they vie for political office.

Ibile also believes in empowerment, because it is better to teach someone how to fish than to be giving the person fish. We have various empowerment programs for both the young and the old.

 Ibile also has a prison outreach programme; we discovered that there are many innocent youngmen rotting away in many of our prisons, not for committing any crime, but for not been able to employ the services of a lawyer.

“We intervene in such matters and provide legal assistance to such persons, and ensure that their cases get the desired attention and resolution.

The Ibile family is a very big family and I can assure you that it is growing day by day. There are many L.G chapters waiting to be inaugurated and also many states wings that are ready to take-off.

The simple is truth is “if we struggle we may win, but if we don’t we have lost” and “Dare to struggle is Dare to Win”.

Excerpt from Baale Gbogunleri Isale Oja, Agege, Alhaji Rasheed Rufai Kuku during the inauguration, I quote " Saheed Mosadoluwa Mr. Ibile was born and bred in Isale Oja, and he remains the Pride of Isale Oja" Agege as a whole. It is not easy to pioneer a large number of people like this without facing huddles, and challenges, and seeing light after the tunnel is the most possible result.  

So, we are confident of what happened and he will come out victoriously.

Leaders in the world have also faced this, It is not new to us and forces behind this will never succeed he prayed.

IBILE PEACEFUL ASSEMBLY INAUGURATES AGEGE CHAPTER

Inaugural speech by Hon. Saheed Mosadoluwa (MR. IBILE)
Speech delivered by: Olamide Olatunji on Friday 30th December, 2016

Greetings and kudos to all Ibile Revolutionaries. I appreciate Agege and Mushin chapters’ members. I also recognized and appreciate Ifako-Ijaiye, under the leadership of Mother Theresa, Hadjia Fatee that gathered here including Agba from Oshodi.

Let me start by telling the whole world how fast they choose to spread my idea, the idea “I overcome fear to test “IBILE PEACEFUL REVOLUTIONARY AND PHILOSOPHICAL ROOT. IT IS REAL.

Tell those that choose defaming my person character that they can never stop my revolutionary spirit.

The footage on some of the television channels in Nigeria and abroad as well some of online media about my person should be good evidence that some people from different television stations and national dailies chose not to carry-out investigative journalism hence publishing false reports about Hon. Saheed Mosadoluwa as they failed to realize that SP Ngozi  Braide of is not serving interest of the nation or the fictitious complainant but to serve some politicians foster interest to remove Mr-Ibile out of circulation because of widespreading acceptance of his campaigned to inbuilt Yoruba Nation psychologically to hijack political structures from those who achieved power through political subterfuge.

The issue at hand cannot stop or depress me, if not a contribution to sharpen my ability to express IBILE REVOLUTIONARY as a political platform that will not negate Yoruba people creativity.


 I am on 14 days remand in Ikoyi prison and believe me, my first and second days has contributed to the need to harness more support from the like-mended towards the rehabilitation and re-integration of inmates as clearly encapsulated in Ibile prisons policy initiative.

 All Ibile members need to play significant roles in assisting inmates as they are innocent people who are dying for no just cause of which we need to assist poor Nigerians to be responsible citizens.

Prisoners in Ikoyi needs volunteers  in provision of prison based programs and also to assist inmates reintegrate back into the society.

I fear not the heat from those who think defaming my character will stop Ibile assembly. No! It is the intensity of a horse race. Ibile revolutionaries are health because of our philosophical roots are natural for those who are committed to the pursuit of political truths.

They expect me to throw cold water exhilaration and emotion on how are Nigerians believe their lies. Whenever they mention the issue, ask them to produce the complainant of the fraud case against Hon. Saheed Mosadoluwa (Mr. Ibile) and the real facts.

 Tell them also to come forward to court during trial to see the police investigation reports to understand the politically motivated case against me.

I enjoin you all to let us concentrate on how to perfect ourselves and to present Ibile peaceful assemble as a model for those who are ready to pursue truth, love and justice for all as I have stated in the Ibile precious brochure volume #1 that I am not an expert on how to gain widespread acceptance on true revolutionaries in moral philosophy as represented Ibile core values.

Let me appreciate all the IBILE’s in the process of communicating the idea.

 Can anyone tell Comrade Yusuf .O. Fadeyi and his 3 other comrades that Ibile assembly members will remember them for sharing five days of the pain with me and the revolutionary spirit in them still reaffirm how committed they are to this cause,  I pray that our sufferings will not go in vain.

Agege chapter has come to stay and with me being on ground, we shall witness Oshodi Inauguration.

I thank my fathers and mothers; I appreciate you all for being there to spark my vision. I cannot be shaken.

I knew the danger of the exercise before I embarked on it. I know how the clientele political masters will want to stop me, but you all have ensured the success of Ibile.
Please the strength to further Ibile as a cause of liberty is not just for me alone but also for future generation.

Together we can, and we will take back our country and restore to its greatness.
Long live Ibile Revolutionary
Long live in Yoruba nation
Long live Nigeria
Long live Africa.
Thank you all

AT IKORODU FIESTA, AMBODE OFFERS AMNESTY TO CULTISTS

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday announced readiness of the State Government to offer amnesty to cultists willing to renounce their membership of cult groups and turn a new leaf.

Governor Ambode, who stated this in Ikorodu at the ongoing One Lagos Fiesta, said his administration has perfected plans to use 2017 to rehabilitate all those involved in one form of criminality or the other and are ready to be law abiding, with the view to making them live normal lives and contribute meaningfully to the society.

While noting with concern the rising spate of cultism and other crimes especially in the Ikorodu axis, the Governor said in as much as the government has capacity to deal with such crimes, he nevertheless said amnesty is being offered to encourage those willing to turn away from their old ways and embrace new lives.

“In the last few months, we have been having a lot of challenges with cultism in Ikorodu area and a lot of issues that relate to kidnapping. So, we are going to strike a deal tonight, we are going to say no to cultism and then we are going to encourage all of you. Anybody who is a cult member, we are going to offer you amnesty. I want to use the whole of 2017 to rehabilitate all those who have been doing bad things; we are going to provide money and we are going to provide jobs.

“We are going to encourage ourselves; wherever you find somebody that is not doing anything well, you can either tell the monarch here or come to us, we will give you protection; we offer you money and then we are going to offer you automatic jobs.  So, we all agree to say no to domestic violence, kidnapping, rape and no to cultism. Once you sign on, we would offer you anything that you want,” Governor Ambode said.

The Governor also stressed the importance of education and hard work to the youths, and urged them to strive very hard to be educated, and thereafter pursue their dreams.

While referring to an entertainer, Folarin Falana popularly known as Falz, who is a lawyer, the Governor said it was highly essential for the young ones to be educated before thinking of other things in life.

“What I brought to you tonight is to let you know that education is very important. You can be who you want to be. If I was not a Governor, I would be an accountant; if I was not an accountant, maybe I would have been an entertainer because I love music, I love arts, I love entertainment and that is why I want to encourage all of you, firstly, we must all be educated and then you can now use you creative talents to be who you want to be,” he said.


Addressing the mammoth crowd who came out in droves for the fiesta including monarchs, members of the State Executive Council, among others, Governor Ambode also urged parents to talk to their children on the need to shun all forms of crime and violence, assuring that the State Government would continue to device strategies and policies to give greater opportunities to the youths.

Written by Yusuf Adeoye Category: Entertainment Hits: 56

It is our resolve to make learning interesting and appealing to every child - Tutor General/Perm.Sec. Education, District 1, Agege - Dr. Yinka Ayandele

Interview with Tutor General/Perm.Sec. Education, Lagos State Education District 1, Mrs. Ayandele A.Olayinka. PhD

" As the first Head Girl of Government College, Agege, I excessively focused and committed to leading by example. I strove hard to ensure my mates understand whatever we were taught. I organised tutorials and my mates benefited from it yet it never crossed my heart to become a teacher.

After graduation, I avoided teaching for over 12 years not knowing teaching was my calling - though, my mother was a retired teacher. My childhood dream was to become a chartered accountant and to work with NNPC.

However, every time I had anything to do with explaining a concept to people, I do it with passion and I get excellent remarks from them. And I've since, developed unflinching passion for teaching. Since I resumed as TUTOR GENERAL, we have designed a functional and result oriented process that have yielded remarkable results both in and outside the classrooms. Education District 1 has moved from 21% in our 2015 performance score card to 71.4% in 2016.

It is our resolve to make learning interesting and appealing to every child under our jurisdiction and my greatest joy has been seeing parents withdrawing their children from private schools and enroll them into public.

With the clear interest of Gov. Ambode in education, the learning outcomes of Lagos State will remain a model for all".

Watch out for the full interview in AgegePulse next edition.

Hon. Adejare revels in dignitaries Turnout At Christmas Gig

When a proposed mini get-together metamorphosed into a show of top class dignitaries, it becomes an assembly of movers and shakers of the society in one enclave and you have no choice than to be overwhelmed.

This was the surprise package received by Lagos State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Dr. Samuel Babatunde Adejare when traditional rulers, local, state and federal political representatives marked attendance at a Christmas gig organised by the commissioner at his Agege residence.

It was a sumptuous dining and wining on Sunday as Lagos Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, Sen. Olamilekan Adeola Yayi, Hon. Yinka Ogundimu, Olu of Agege, HRM, Oba Kamila Isiba, Engr. Omotosho, PH. Uzamat Adebile-Yusuf, Sole Administrator, Apapa, Hon. Tunde Alao, Agege APC Women Leader, Chief (Mrs) Bola Britto, Hon. Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi, friends and well wishers celebrate this year's Christmas with Hon. Dr. Adejare.

The soft-spoken politician puts his emotion into perspective while speaking with AgegePulse at the event; "I thank Almighty God for my journey so far, and appreciate everyone, especially Yayi and Mr. Speaker for leaving the comfort of their respective homes to join in celebrating God's mercy over the life of my family and I in 2016.

"Also, I commend Gov. Ambode for believing in me as the right person to put his vision o

f a clean Lagos into reality after chosen me as commissioner in his cabinet. I'm indeed overwhelmed by all these people around me. May God continue to bless everyone of them as we head into another fruitful year. Glory be to Almighty", Adejare asserted.

See more images below

AgegePulse Magazine others pay courtesy visit to ES, LGEA, Hon. Majiyagbe

Members of AgegePulse Magazine, AgegeTv Online and Ifako Ijaye Post Magazine recently paid courtesy visit on Executive Secretary, Local Government Education Authority, Agege, Hon. Olamilekan Majiyagbe to felicitate with him as he add new feathers to his list of accolades.

Majiyagbe shown like a million star at the just concluded Lagos State Universal Basic Board, SUBEB annual awards.

The Agege LGEA Boss emerged 

overall Best Local Government Education Authority in Lagos State, alongside seven other coveted awards at event.

Majiyagbe used the media visit to express gratitude and appreciate all the staff of the LGEA, teachers and students for contributing immensely to the success of the body.

Lagosians consume N3bn food daily- Ambode

… Says State’ll maximise comparative advantage to achieve food security

…Lagos in the forefront to boosting agro-business- Dangote

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday said that investors willing to do business in the agric sector in the State can be rest assured of a ready market and returns on investment as the daily consumption of food items in the State is worth over N3billion daily.

The Governor, who spoke at the maiden edition of the Lagos Food Security and Exhibition Summit with the theme "Actualizing Sustainable Food Security in Lagos State: A New, Comprehensive Agenda', said his administration remains committed in its efforts towards maximising its comparative advantage in the sector to achieve food security.

He said Nigeria had no business resorting to importation to feed its citizens, adding that there was no alternative to achieving food security other than tilling the land and embrace best practices that will improve efficiency in the agricultural value chain.

The Governor said, “Our core policy thrust towards achieving food security is to maximize the comparative advantage of the State in agriculture and establish partnerships with other States of the Federation with comparative advantage in specific areas.”

Listing some areas of collaboration already activated, Governor Ambode said his administration has sealed a landmark partnership with Kebbi State Government for the development of agricultural commodities such as rice, wheat, groundnut, onion, maize and beef value chain, expressing optimism that the partnership can result in the supply of 70 per cent of the total national rice consumption.

“We have also acquired agricultural land in other neighbouring States of Ogun and Oyo as well as Abuja. Specifically, 500 hectares of farm land has been acquired for rice cultivation in Eggua, Ogun State, 84.7 hectares at Okinni in Oshogbo for oil palm processing, among others,” the Governor said.

He said the Lagos Food Security Summit and Exhibition was organized to bring together stakeholders in the Agricultural sector to proffer solutions to the challenges militating against the achievement of food security, noting that the success recorded in the last "Traffic Summit' that has eased the traffic situation in the metropolis can be replicated in the area of food security in the state.

He therefore said that in the wake of the economic challenges facing the country there was no better time for the nation to review its approach and the redirection of its energies to food production.

“Behind every dark cloud, they say, is a silver lining. One of the challenges the current economic recession has brought to the fore is the urgent need to develop a sustainable programme that will guarantee food security for our people. As a nation, in the past, we spent billions of Foreign Exchange on importation of food and food items many of which can be cultivated in our country.

“Our country is blessed with very good arable land and a climate that supports food production. We can achieve food security and create employment opportunities for our teeming youth if we put in place the right policies and incentives that will attract significant investment into the Agricultural sector,” he said.

Also, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Food Security, Mr. Sanni Ganiyu Okanlawon, noted that that the summit was being organized to institutionalize a food security framework that would guarantee sustainable food security for its growing population.

He said the summit was designed to realign emerging realities with new global trends on food safety, food processing, food storage, food handling, funding of agribusiness and agric insurance”, adding that it will attract major stakeholders from the Agricultural sector and academia, foreign and local investors, media, civil society and policymakers in government.

Earlier, Chairman of the Summit, Alhaji Sani Dangote, commended the Governor Ambode-led administration for leading being in the forefront in addressing the challenge of food security, saying that the State boasts of a large population with an economy ranked as the fifth largest in Sub-Saharan Africa, a bulging youth population and capital of the nation’s industrial base.

Nigeria In Microcosm: How Agege Became 2nd Home To Hausas - Part 1

No doubt, if anyone is familiar with the popular densely populated suburb of Lagos State known as Agege, they must have always been overwhelmed by the domination of Northerners most especially Hausas in the area. Little wonder what would have transpired ages back for the Hausas to take a second home in Agege? Think no further, by the time you read this write up to the last dot, you must have been accustomed with the whole circumstances that brought about the prevalence of Hausas in the nooks and crannies of Agege.

The fairly busy railway line in Agege cuts through the Hausa community, popularly known as Zango Agege. Obviously, the mood of daily life in parts of Zango in Agege closely resembles the far Northern part of Nigeria, and the story behind the name 'Agege' tells much about ties between the Hausas and Yorubas. Zango in Hausa language means convergence point/place for traveling Hausas. It is also a place cows are kept. This is Agege Lagos with Northern structure. Interestingly, the Yorubas call Zango as Sango Agege.

The community is made up of five parts and each part has a Ward Head. There is an Imam, countless Mosques, endless alleys as well as a big market, many houses and a huge population. This multilingual population can be found on both sides of the railway line. It is said that the train lines were already in place a hundred years ago.

History has it that the trains brought cattle from the North, and conveyed Kola nuts up north from the South West (Yoruba Land). There is a huge trading population in Zango Agege, and it is difficult walking along the path which runs by the side of the railway line. People trade right up to the edge of the busy path, and customers stand within this same place to make purchases. Hausa is the common tongue there, in fact you would think you are somewhere in the North, but you aren't. The feeling lingers, however. 

Moreover, the Hausa community of Agege is altogether an unforgettable place. A popular account states that the Hausa community of Agege produced the 200 men who formed the nucleus of what later became the Nigerian Army, the palace of Sarki Hausawa, Alh. Musa Abubakar - Leader of the Hausa community, is adjacent the railway line, and it is encircled by countless traders. 

An Hausa angle of the history of Agege revealed that the relationship between the Northerners and Yorubaland dated centuries ago. It was revealed that Agege has always been a stopover point for Hausa traders who are journeying onwards to places such as Ghana, Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Togo and Cameroon. The Hausa traders exercise some rest in Agege before continuing on the trips. Thus, Agege began to function like a Zango, for Hausa traders who journeyed up to West African Neighbours to buy Kola nuts and return with same to the North.

After a while, the Hausa traders saw that the weather at Gonja, the Kola nut producing area of Ghana, was similar to that of Lagos, and so Kola nuts seed were brought and planted in the Agege area. This was meant as a simple test, but eventually, the Kola crop began to flourish. The new found treasure on Agege's soil apparently halted the Hausa traders' constant traveling to Gonja, Ghana. Thus, instead of going to Gonja to buy Kola nuts, they now stopped at Orile Agege to buy same, and this new Kola nut was thereafter named Obi-Gonja or Gonja Kola nut. That was how Hausas formally began to settle in the Agege area, much unlike the past when they were simply passing through on trading missions to other parts of West Africa.

You don’t need a lawyer to register your business – Bello Mahmud

Registrar-General of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Bello Mahmud on Thursday said the commission had taken steps to eliminate bottlenecks associated with registering a business.

 “We have reduced the cost of registering a business by 50 percent. You don’t need a lawyer to register your business for you anymore. You can ‎now do it yourself. The process is easy now,” he said.

Speaking at the second presidential economic communication workshop in Abuja, Mahmud said this was with a view to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

He also revealed that the cost of registering a business had been reduced by 50 percent.

”You can now register your business anywhere at our offices in Lagos, Kano and Enugu.”

Earlier, Jumoke Oduwole, senior special assistant to the president on industry, trade and investment, outlined measures the government was to taking to create investment opportunities for the country.

According to her, one of the measures is‎ reducing the strictures to getting a Nigerian visa.

She said President Muhammadu Buhari was concerned‎ about the ranking of Nigeria as one of the most difficult countries to do business; hence he has set up a committee to come up with ways of making Nigeria business friendly.

LAGOS @50; Ikeja Division: Agege Take Lead Role -

Agege Local Government Area under Ikega Division will be cynosure of all eyes come May 27, 2017 when tourist and culture enthusiasts across the world covenrgee in Africa's most populous megacity to celebrate Lagos @50.
The division is leaving no stone unturned in preparation for the golden jubilee events. It recently held a colloquium to kickstart preparation towards the August event.
A member of Ikeja Division Local Organising Committee, and a Chairmanship Aspirant of Agege Local Government Area, Prince Adeniyi Jafojo in a chat with AgegePulse Magazine at a colloquium. Organisers revealed  that event was organized to  create awareness and sensitize the people of the division  revealed that Agege Local Government would take a lead role amongst Ikeja division,  tha comprises of Agege, Ikeja, Shomolu, Mushin, Alimosho amongst others with an array of hidden cultures and multiple identities in Lagos.
“You will see marvelous different cultural displays on the day. This Colloquium is just a tip of the iceberg, basically to tell people that we are planning to celebrate Lagos in Ikeja division style”.
Speaking on the significance of Lagos@50, Prince Jafojo said apart from the exhibition of Lagos rich cultures, tourism also takes centre stage due to the caliber of invited individuals and personalities across Nigeria and all over the world.
Foreign investors, and most Nigerians in Diaspora will bring their savings home to felicitate with Lagos, therefore we can authoritatively say celebrating Lagos at 50 would automatically bring investment into the state. The Hotels, restaurants, the stores and other business outlets would witness massive turnover during the celebration period.
On socio-economic development, the Agege APC Chairmanship Aspirant reiterates that the proceeds from the turnover would not go to Governor Ambode or the state rather it would go directly into the income of establishments, individuals and owners. A larger percentage of Agege population are entrepreneur and artisans, this indicates that the programme would come with colossal socio-economic activities that would turn into money for the people.
If you recalled that during Governor Ambode election campaign, he emphasized and promised to improve cultural and tourism activities of the state, the Lagos at 50 event is one of them. Last year, during the yuletide season the governor also organized One Lagos Fiesta which took place at Agege stadium. It was a special event which many people are still talking about till date. Moreover, Lagos at 50 event would further water the cordial relationship between the diverse ethnicities living in Lagos. Hence, ease the survival tension that anyone who wishes to relocate to Lagos might be having. Lagos is peaceful, Lagos is loving and accommodating. The event would be a total improvement on the annual Lagos carnival celebration.

LASG dedicates October sanitation to vector control

The Lagos State Government has declared that the State’s Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise for the month of October will be dedicated to vector control and observed, as usual, between the hours of 7:00am to 10.00am on Saturday, 29th October, 2016.

The Commissioner for the Environment, Dr. Babatunde Adejare, who disclosed this recently, explained that the move towards vector control in the State had commenced with automated fumigation of all markets in Lagos, starting with Obalende Market, is aimed at eliminating rodents and preventing the disease they might cause.

He urged residents to turn out en-masse and participate actively in the forthcoming sanitation exercise by cleaning their homes and drains, warning that the period of environmental sanitation should not be used for any social engagement or sporting activities, but for cleaning and sanitation exercises.

Dr. Adejare noted that apart from this State organized event, daily cleaning of our environment should be an everyday affair, because environment is the superstructure on which everything rests. He appealed to residents to desist from acts that could lead to flooding, such as indiscriminate dumping of waste into drains and canals and other acts that might result in environmental degradation.

According to him, “The State Government is committed to achieving a flood-free Lagos. Citizens on their part will do well to ensure that canals and channels in their areas are cleaned at all times, in addition to the regular de-silting, dredging and maintenance of drainage channels and canals by government.”

“As we are all aware, Lagos is a coastal State that has high water table and prone to flash-floods, we must therefore imbibe positive attitude which will reduce to the barest minimum the incidence of flooding, which has so far been contained in the State” he added.

The Commissioner warned residents who still patronize cart pushers to desist from the illegal act as the coverage of the PSP Operators has been widened to effectively accommodate more residents of the State.

He reminded Lagosians that government’s zero tolerance programme to environmental infractions and nuisances was still very much on course and as such the people should refrain from degrading the environment in any form to avoid the negative consequences of environmental pollution and the full weight of the compliance measures of government.

In order to attain total compliance of the restriction order and ensure full participation of Lagosians in the sanitation exercise, Adejare implored interstate Bus Operators, the State Transport Owners and Road Transport Workers Association to comply with the restriction of vehicular movement order between 7.00am-10.00am as any vehicle caught violating this order will be dealt with appropriately, while passengers in such vehicles will also be prosecuted according to the State Environmental Sanitation Laws.

He further assured that Law Enforcement Agencies including the Nigeria Police and officials from LAWMA, LASTMA and KAI have been fully mobilized to enforce the restriction.

CABINET RESHUFFLE:

CABINET RESHUFFLE: AMBODE DROPS COMMISSIONERS FOR TOURISM, FINANCE, TRANSPORTATION

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday effected a reshuffle of his cabinet, with the dropping of the Commissioners for Tourism- Mr Folorunsho Folarin-Coker; Finance, Dr. Mustapha Akinkunmi and Transportation, Dr. Ekundayo Mobereola.

This development comes exactly one year after the Governor constituted his Executive Council, precisely on October 19, 2015.

In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tunji Bello, the Governor also directed the Special Adviser, Arts and Culture to take over as the Acting Commissioner for Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Special Adviser on Transportation will take over as Acting Commissioner for Transportation while the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance takes over as the Acting Commissioner for Finance pending the appointment of new Commissioners in the respective ministries.

The Statement adds that the Governor expresses his appreciation to the former Commissioners for their service to the State and wished them well in their future endeavours.

SIGNED

TUNJI BELLO

SECRETARY TO THE STATE GOVERNMENT (SSG)

OCTOBER 19, 2016

Proposed Pen Cinema Flyover Bridge: Agege React

VOX POP:

It is no more news that Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode recently approved the construction of a flyover bridge at Pen Cinema in Agege LGA. According to authorities, the bridge would be constructed from Oba Ogunji via Ijaiye road into Agunbiade road. The news of the 700meters long bridge has generated mix reactions from residents and commuters around the area. Below are some of the reactions:

Babatunde Josua:
It will ease traffic, it will be bring development and open Agege more for Businesses.

Opeyemi Oretuyi:
It will bring a monumental development to Agege, It is long overdue to have a bridge at Pen Cinema. Though it will affect some structures in the area, we can only hope that Lagos state government will compensate those affected.

Yomi Omoyele:
The proposed Agege Flyover will, in no small measure, transform Agege and its environ. This will be visible, especially, in three key areas, viz: social, economic and aesthetic. As a basic item of infrastructure, it has become a necessity to ease the Pen Cinema/Agunbiade axis, being a multi-directional link road, of seemingly intractable traffic congestion. If this is achieved, social value accrues naturally to the entire Agege Township. People get more attracted to Agege for habitation and livelihood. Beyond these, the bridge would be an aesthetic structure.

Alhaji Maikudi: 
It is a progressive gesture for commuters. Whether you are coming from Iju or Alimosho side heading towards Lagos, you have to pass through Pen-Cinema. But on a bad day, you may become locked up inside Pen Cinema traffic for two to three hours. However, with the proposed bridge, it is going to be smooth ride. We really appreciate the effort of Gov. Ambode to bring such huge development to Agege.

Alhaji Shakiru Balogun Hamburger: 
It is good news needed for the improvement of the Agege community and Lagos state at large. The bridge will definitely reduce the incessant traffic jam in the area and make the road more beautiful.

Alhaja R. Komolafe:  
The bridge has been proposed and cancelled before but thanks to Hon. Obasa and other prominent members of Agege who were able to convince the governor on the relevance of the bridge. The bridge will be very essential to white collar workers in and around Agege who pass through Pen Cinema daily. It will ease the ugly traffic lock down experience they are forced to witness day and night in the area. The bridge will be constructed from Pen Cinema to Ahmed Nursery and Primary School which is the main center for traffic jam.

Ogba Elephant Club Elects New Executives and also receives an Award

The prestigious Elephant Club of Ogba, Agege has elected new executives to paddle the affairs of its members from 2016 to 2018.The newly elected executives are to lead Elephant Club for the 19th edition of imparting and touching lives in the communities ranging from sports, education, health and youth engagement amongst others.

The election held on Sunday September 4th, 2016 at the Palace of Ogbaland, Agege was presided over by the Regent of Ogbaland Mr. Jeleel Kehinde Ashade, staff of Agege LGA, Mr. Yakuba Owodina, Matron, Kehinde Orejoko, Mr. GbengaBamgboye and Otunba Yomi Durojaye of AgegePulse Magazine as returning officers.

Observers say the election was free, fair, credible,transparent and flawless. It was also confirmed best ever by stakeholders who witnessed the historic poll that brought in Mr. Moroofdeen Ashade and Miss Ronke Abimbola as new chairman and vice chairman of the club respectively.

Others are General Secretary, Mr. Musbaudeen Ashade, Asst. Sec. Mr. Alilu Salaudeen, Treasurer, Mr. Umar Muhammed, Financial Secretary, Alhaji. Lukman Ashade, Public Relations Officer, Mr. Gafar Busari and Organising Secretary, Miss Tanwa Ashade.

Chief Whip, Mr. Yusuf Ashade, Social and Welfare, Mr. Aruna Ashade, Ex- Officio, Alhaji Yusuf Salaudeen complete the new executives.

The Elephant Club of Ogba, Agege is a humanitarian group formed by jolly friends within the royal community about 20 years ago. Ever since its establishment, the club has been giving complementary support to the youths and elders of Ogbaland along with the effort of government whose resources is limited to the people.

The club has bagged several awards and recognitions for its relentless efforts towards ensuring a functional environment through effective engagement of youths in their community. One of such accolade was the special recognition award for youth community service bestowed on them by the Discovery for Youth initiative.

Lagos Speaker Obasa Hands Over Report Of Constituency Meeting To Ambode

Lagos Speaker Obasa Hands Over Report Of Constituency Meeting To Ambode; Gov Says it’ll Form Part Of 2017 Budget

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa has handed over the reports of the constituency stakeholders’ meeting organised by the House to the state Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode for implementation.

The constituency stakeholders’ meeting, second in the series, took place simultaneously in all the 40 constituencies in the state.

The reports contained the requests and recommendations of the people of the state spread across the 40 constituencies on how the state will continue to achieve development and growth.

On Friday during the Executive-Legislative Parley organised by the state government, Obasa told the Governor that the reports contained the wishes and recommendations of the people of the state urging him to ensure their implementation.

“We decided to feel the pulse of our people through the constituency stakeholders’ meeting and what I’m presenting to you today is their aggregate demands and recommendations collated by our field officers who worked in the 40 constituencies,” the Lagos Assembly Speaker said.

Governor Ambode while receiving the reports from the Speaker assured that the contents would form major components of the 2017 budget.

“These are the wishes of Lagosians and these will help us greatly in preparing the 2017 budget. These reports will save time because they are the direct requests of the people so we have something to work on,” Ambode said.

He commended the state Assembly for the initiative boring that the initiative complements the efforts of state government to bring dividends of democracy closer to the people. “This is a very unique initiative which has been complementing the efforts of the government to improve the welfare of our people and bring dividends of democracy closer to them,” he said.

Ambode later handed over the reports to the state Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr Akinyemi Asade for implementation.

When Sylvester Igbonu Hosts Pasuma, Malaika, Super Eagles Stars In Agege

Super Eagles midfielder, Sylvester Igbonu is in the news. This time, it is not about his professional football career rather a lifetime achievement for the attacking midfielder. He recently played host to top entertainers and football stars at the house warming celebration of his newly built country home in Agege, Lagos Nigeria.

Fuji stars, Pasuma, Malaika, Small Doctor alongside Super Eagles stars Ogenyi Onazi, Gbolahan Salami, Dele Alampasu, Benin Republic star, Rasak Omotoyosi, veteran goal keeper, Dosu Joseph amongst others marked attendance at the colourful event.

Prior to the house warming gig, Sly as Igbonu is fondly called, along with some other top stars played a novelty match inside the prestigious Agege stadium. The match attracted lovers of the round leather game across the country and overseas. However, it was sumptuous dining and wining when friends, families and well wishers of Igbonu converged at his new edifice to felicitate with him. The guests were treated to all sorts of tasty continental delicacies and assorted drinks as they danced to several songs from DJ stand.

Sly made his international debut in a 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualification game against Tanzania on 5 September 2015, replacing Moses Simon as a substitute in the 69th minute. He started his professional career football with Ebedei from 2004 to 2006 and between 2006-2010, he played for FC Midtylland that won the Championship in Denmark in 2015 before moving to FC Ufa of Russia

He celebrated his last birthday on September 8, 2016