The Lagos State Government has launched an ambitious plan to transform the Incidental Open Space (IOS) at Sabo-Ikorodu near Ile Epo Oba into a vibrant, eco-friendly urban hub aimed at enhancing security, sustainability, and economic activity.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, during a stakeholder engagement meeting at the newly commissioned Multipurpose Hall in Isiwu, Ikorodu North LCDA.
Organized by the Lagos State Planning and Environmental Monitoring Authority (LASPEMA) in collaboration with Ikorodu North LCDA, the meeting served to engage stakeholders and inform the community about the project’s goals.
Welcoming attendees, the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu North LCDA, Builder Adeola Adebisi Banjo, highlighted the challenges posed by the current state of the IOS, describing it as a hotspot for criminal activities like gunrunning and drug trafficking.
“This transformation is not just about aesthetics; it’s about reclaiming our community from insecurity and creating opportunities for growth,” Banjọ emphasized.
He praised LASPEMA for its forward-thinking initiative and assured attendees of an inclusive and transparent process aligned with the state government’s vision for sustainable urban development.
Tpl. Daisi Osho, LASPEMA’s General Manager, provided a detailed presentation on the IOS project, showcasing its current state and the proposed transformation.
He described the project as a response to longstanding demands from Ikorodu stakeholders to address the space’s challenges.
The envisioned transformation includes improved lighting, waste management, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and essential services such as a police post, LASEMA and LASAMBUS units, and a primary healthcare center.
These plans align with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEME+ agenda for infrastructure renewal and sustainable development.
Dr. Olumide Oluyinka, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, commended the project’s ambition, stating, “This is another step toward positioning Lagos as a world-class city.”
He emphasized the need for collaboration across all levels of government to achieve lasting results.
Dr. Nurudeen Yekini Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence that the project would elevate Ikorodu to semi-urban status.
Prince Adeseye Ogunlewe, former Lagos State Head of Service, praised the initiative as a long-overdue intervention for Ikorodu. Similarly, Prince Olasunkanmi Tijani, APC Ikorodu LGA Chairman, described the project as a transformative opportunity to enhance Ikorodu North’s image and curb social vices.
CSP Geoffrey, head of the anti-kidnapping and anti-cultism unit, lauded the project’s potential to improve security in the area.
He urged residents to continue supporting law enforcement efforts to maintain peace.
Addressing concerns about current occupiers of the IOS, Tpl. Osho reassured stakeholders that inclusivity was central to the project.
He revealed that records of occupiers had been collated to ensure their interests would be protected.
This assurance was well received, with Agbala Ward Councillor Hon. Niran Adeyemi expresses relief that the project would support existing market operators.
The meeting brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including transport unions, market associations, youth groups, CDC leaders, traditional chiefs, and IOS occupiers.
Discussions underscored a shared commitment to embrace the project as a catalyst for positive change in Sabo-Ikorodu.
In closing, Builder Adéọlá Banjọ thanked LASPEMA and the Lagos State Government for their leadership and reiterated the commitment of Ikorodu North LCDA to ensuring the project’s success.
“Together, we can turn this space into a beacon of progress,” he said, calling for collective action to make the vision a reality.
The meeting concluded on a hopeful note, with stakeholders pledging support for the transformation, which promises to position Ikorodu North LCDA as a model for sustainable urban renewal in Lagos State.
INN-HOUSE☆ 