The Lagos State government’s office of Rural Development, under the guidance of Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development, disclosed an array of community-based projects aimed at transforming rural areas and propelling Lagos State towards becoming a 21st-century economy.
These efforts were reeled out by Dr Agbaje during the annual ministerial press conference (of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and office of Rural Development) held in Alausa on the 27th of May 2024, which encompassed vital infrastructure, water schemes, electricity enhancements, community development initiatives, agricultural support, and training programs.
Infrastructure Improvements:
The Technical Services Department has played a pivotal role in improving road infrastructure across rural communities.
To date, 24 road projects have been awarded, with 18 successfully completed, covering a total of 18.55 kilometers.
Notable completed roads include Eyita Road in Ikorodu, Rasheed Olayiwola Road in Ibeju-Lekki, and Unity Road by Bale Crescent in Alimosho.
Current projects are ongoing in Iganke, Agbowa LCDA. Recently, construction commenced on a 400-meter road in Ijake Community of Oto Awori LCDA and a 510-meter road on Ganiyu Oduntan/Lamidi Agoro Street in Ikorodu.
Water and Sanitation Projects:
Water schemes and sanitation services have been prioritised, with plans for 93 new projects recently approved by Mr Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
This includes 65 water schemes and 10 communal toilets. The water schemes include various configurations such as Type A (2 Tanks), Modified Type A (4 Tanks), Solar-Powered Type A (4 Tanks), and Micro Water Schemes.
Electricity Enhancements:
To improve electricity access, the Office has distributed 300KVA transformers to various communities, including Yologbo Estate and Igbe-Lara in Ikorodu.
Out of the 20 transformers approved by the Governor, 10 have already been distributed, with the remaining units in the process of allocation.
Community Development Initiatives:
The Community Development Department has fostered strong partnerships with Community Development Associations (CDAs) and the Community Development Council (CDC), overseeing over 5,000 CDAs.
The Annual Community Day Celebration on December 14th underscored the theme “Community Engagement: A Veritable Tool for Infrastructure Development in Rural Communities,” and featured the presentation of new buses and grants to outstanding CDAs.
Support for Rural Agriculture:
The Office supports rural farming through demonstration projects and integrated farms in the State’s five divisions.
These initiatives are designed to enhance economic well-being and combat malnutrition among children.
Centre for Rural Development (CERUD):
CERUD continues to enhance rural life through social amenities and agricultural training.
Recent activities include the provision of transformers and aquaculture and honey bee production training programs for 200 participants in Lagos Island, Badagry, and Epe.
Dr. Agbaje’s comprehensive performance which according to him aligns with the Lagos State government’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, aims to boost food security, socio-economic development, and the overall quality of life in Lagos State, complimenting the vision of creating a modern, efficient, and sustainable economy.
INN-HOUSE☆ 