In a strong push to bridge the urban-rural divide, the Lagos State Government has launched a series of transformative projects targeting infrastructure, electrification, clean water, and agricultural development in rural communities.
This was revealed by the Honourable Commissioner for the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert, during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa-Secretariat on Thursday.
Mr. Robert reaffirmed the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, noting that Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu remains dedicated to inclusive governance that leaves no community behind.
From rehabilitating rural roads to powering underserved areas and supporting grassroots farmers, the government’s interventions are designed to uplift rural livelihoods.
He commended the Office of Rural Development, led by the Special Adviser, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, for championing projects that ease movement, stimulate local economies, and improve living standards.
“Communities such as Ijede, Ikorodu, and Ibeju-Lekki have benefitted from tailored infrastructure upgrades that respond directly to their unique needs,” Mr. Robert stated.
Highlighting key milestones achieved in the past year, Mr. Robert noted the completion of over 80 water projects, installation of 42 transformers in rural communities, empowerment of more than 2,000 residents through targeted initiatives, and extensive rural road rehabilitation.
These efforts, he said, contribute significantly to the administration’s goal of transforming Lagos into a 21st-century economy.
He further disclosed that new rural road construction has commenced across the state, including projects on Alhaji Jimoh Street, Abudu Rasheed Street, and the grading of feeder roads in Ikorodu and Agbado/Oke-Odo.
Several ongoing projects are also progressing steadily: Ijake Street, Oto-Awori LCDA (66% completion), Ganiyu-Oduntan/Lamidi-Agoro Street, Ikorodu (60%), Ayubu-Bashorun Street, Ikorodu (20%), and Onishon Street, Ibeju-Lekki (30%).
Additionally, the Office of Rural Development has energized rural communities by installing 63 transformers and deploying solar-powered streetlights in areas like Elepe Estate, Lafiaji, and Igbogbo, thereby improving security and social life through clean energy.
In the water sector, the Ministry has delivered 80 new water projects, rehabilitated existing infrastructure, and installed 54 new schemes, including 13 modified systems and 10 solar-powered units.
In agriculture, Mr. Robert highlighted the positive impact of rural empowerment programs, including initiatives in fish processing, goat rearing, apiculture (bee farming), and bio-fortified crop production.
Farmers in areas like Isheri Integrated Farm and Ketu-Epe Farm have received hands-on training, orchards, and modern farming tools to boost productivity and food security.
Responding to media questions, Dr. Agbaje emphasized the Ministry’s strategic collaboration with Community Development Associations (CDAs), describing them as pillars of grassroots development.
With over 5,000 CDAs and Community Development Councils (CDCs) engaged statewide, the Ministry has fostered active community participation through initiatives like the Annual Community Day Celebration.
He also noted that in 2024, the Ministry awarded buses and grants to several CDAs in recognition of their contributions to grassroots development, reinforcing the state’s commitment to community-led progress.
“As previously noted, the Office of Rural Development, through CERUD, purchased 63 units of 300kVA transformers, which have been distributed across rural communities in the state.”
“More recently, Mr. Governor has procured an additional 11 units of 500kVA transformers to further enhance the standard of electricity infrastructure.”
“These projects underscore our dedication to a Lagos where every citizen—irrespective of location, faith, or background—benefits from inclusive and impactful governance. Our journey continues, and the pace is only increasing,” Dr. Agbaje affirmed.
INN-HOUSE☆ 