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STATE POLICE: YOUR POSITION UNACCEPTABLE, LAGOS ASSEMBLY TELLS IGP EGBETOKUN ®™√ INN Nigeria © — 6 May 2024

STATE POLICE: YOUR POSITION UNACCEPTABLE, LAGOS ASSEMBLY TELLS IGP EGBETOKUN ®™√ INN Nigeria ©

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The Lagos State House of Assembly has kicked against the position of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP, Olukayode Egbetokun, that Nigeria is not ripe for the establishment of state police.

Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, directed the Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, to write the Inspector-General and the National Assembly stating that the state lawmakers reject Egbetokun’s position.

Recall that the IGP, represented at a recently held one-day dialogue on state policing, themed, ‘Pathways to Peace: Reimagining Policing in Nigeria’, opposed the establishment of state police, arguing that it would increase ethnic tension and cause divided loyalty in states of the federation.

The IGP also suggested that the Federal Road Safety Corps and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps be merged with the police force.

However, speaking at plenary on Monday, Dr. Obasa, who noted that the FRSC and the NSCDC have not been able to solve the problems of accidents on roads and pipeline vandalism respectively, wondered how effective they would be if they are merged with the police force.

“In Lagos State, we have the Security Trust Fund through which successive administrations starting from that of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu have provided enormous support to the police command in Lagos State. Yet, crime of different dimensions has continued.

“This shows that no matter what Egbetokun has proffered as solution, such won’t solve our problem. The position of the IGP is unacceptable.

“We strongly believe that if we have state police, we would be able to solve the issues of crime in our nation or reduce it to the minimum.

“As we have seen in other climes, the United Kingdom has different levels of policing just like the United States of America. So why should ours be different?

“The lives of our people are very important and we must do everything possible to make sure we protect lives and property. We want to state categorically that we believe in state police and we want to urge the National Assembly to continue with its intendment to establish state police through the process of constitutional amendment,” Obasa said while praising President Tinubu for his resolve to end insecurity in the country.

Commending the Speaker for his stand on the issue of state police, the lawmaker representing Badagry Constituency 1, argued that with its current structure, it would be difficult for the Nigeria Police Force to effectively secure the country.

Also declaring his support for state police, another lawmaker, Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh (Ajeromi/Ifelodun 1), said each Nigerian state currently has a local security outfit in the semblance of state police.

“Today, which state does not have state police one way or the other? This is a cause that should be supported. For the IG to come out and say state police is not in the interest of Nigeria shows he is not considering the reality of insecurity on Nigerians,” he said.

LAGOS STATE ASSEMBLY’S EXPLORATION OF LOCAL GOVERNANCE PROGRESS – DR AGBAJE ®™√ INN Nigeria © — 3 May 2024

LAGOS STATE ASSEMBLY’S EXPLORATION OF LOCAL GOVERNANCE PROGRESS – DR AGBAJE ®™√ INN Nigeria ©

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Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development, explained the significance of the recent visit by the Lagos State House of Assembly’s Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development to the Ministry.

Led by Hon. Sanni Okanlawon, the committee’s visit on May 2, 2024, was a proactive step towards assessing the progress of local governance initiatives within the state.

The primary objective of the visit was to gain insight into the Ministry’s efforts in advancing Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E.S. Plus Agenda, particularly concerning the development of local government areas.

The agenda encompasses various key areas, including transportation, health, education, and other critical sectors aimed at improving the lives of Lagosians.

During the visit, committee members familiarised themselves with the Ministry’s ongoing projects and programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life in local communities.

The engagement was crucial for strengthening collaboration between the Ministry and the House Committee, fostering a closer working relationship to better serve the people of Lagos State.

Dr. Agbaje reiterated the importance of such interactions in ensuring effective governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to all residents across the state’s 57 Councils.

He emphasized the need for continuous dialogue and collaboration between government agencies and legislative bodies to address the evolving needs of the populace.

“The exploration of local governance progress by the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee signifies a commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsive governance”.

“As the state continues its journey towards sustainable development, such initiatives play a vital role in shaping policies and programs that positively impact the lives of its citizens” Dr Agbaje asserted.

WORKERS’ DAY: SANWO-OLU PROMISES TO PAY NEW MINIMUM WAGE, NLC, TUC, OTHERS HAIL GOVERNOR’S WELFARE FOR WORKERS, RESIDENTS ®™√ INN Nigeria © — 1 May 2024

WORKERS’ DAY: SANWO-OLU PROMISES TO PAY NEW MINIMUM WAGE, NLC, TUC, OTHERS HAIL GOVERNOR’S WELFARE FOR WORKERS, RESIDENTS ®™√ INN Nigeria ©

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Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has assured workers in the State that his administration will implement the new minimum wage that is approved by the Federal Government.

He made the commitment in response to the demands of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) during the Workers’ Day celebration held on Wednesday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

The Governor, while speaking on the current fuel scarcity, advised Lagos residents against panic buying and storage of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly known as petrol, saying the Federal Government and the major stakeholders in the oil sector are working round the clock to end the fuel scarcity.

He said he has received assurances from the authorities that there is enough fuel at tank stations, and the distribution of the product will be intensified to ease the current fuel scarcity across the country.

The Governor promised to look at some of the demands of various unions in the State, saying that his administration will continue to ensure good welfare packages for all the workers in the State.

He praised all the committed, dedicated, resilient, and passionate workers in Lagos State for their contributions across all sectors in building and shaping the State, even in the face of challenges.

He said: “This year’s theme, ‘People First,’ resonates deeply with our administration’s philosophy, which is underpinned by our firm belief in prioritizing the welfare of our people.

“Through various measures, policies, and initiatives, we have demonstrated that the interest and welfare of the people come first and remain the ultimate goal of all our actions. Our response actions are geared towards mitigating the impact of these trying times and offering support to both our workers and citizens alike.

“We have been steadfast and intentional in implementing our social intervention programmes, providing crucial assistance to those in need throughout the state. From subsidised food items through our Ounje Eko, and Eko Cares initiatives to incentives on social services, we have made tangible differences in countless lives.

“Healthcare initiatives that ensure access to quality medical services for all, transportation support, and educational opportunities for our children exemplify our commitment to creating a Lagos where everyone has a fair chance to thrive. Our dedication to putting people first extends beyond mere words.”

Speaking on his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “As we look towards the future, I want to reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society in which the interests of workers receive the attention it deserves.

“We will continue to invest in education, training, and skills development to equip our workforce with the tools they need to succeed in their places of work because we recognize the vital role that workers play in driving progress and prosperity in our society. And we pledge to build a future where every worker is respected, empowered and able to live with dignity and pride.”

In their respective speeches, the Chairperson of NLC, Lagos State Council, Comrade Agnes Funmi Sessi and her TUC counterpart, Comrade Gbenga Ekundayo, praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for making workers’ welfare a priority of his administration.

They urged Governor Sanwo-Olu to implement the agreed minimum wage, expected to be announced by the Federal Government.

Sessi said: “Let me use this unique occasion of May Day to commend and appreciate our Mr. Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for all his interventions to cushion the effect of the economic problems and ameliorate the suffering of the workers in the State.

“We all witnessed his policy on the last reduction in BRT transportation, the setting up of a discounted food mart, the three-day working policy, the payment of a 20 percent increment in salary, the full implementation of N35,000 Wage Award as approved by the Federal Government, and prompt payment of salary.”

Comrade Ekundayo commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his prompt action in implementing the Wage Award for all public servants in Lagos State, noting that the swift response has provided much-needed relief to mitigate the adverse combined effects of the recent subsidy removal and devaluation of the Naira.

“Lagos has been at the forefront of implementing welfare programmes that positively impact workers, and your (Governor Sanwo-Olu) dedication to this course is deeply appreciated. Your commitment to prioritising the welfare of your people is perfectly aligned with our core belief of placing citizens first,” he said.

Speaking earlier, Lagos State Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, commended the leadership of the Organised Labour for their maturity, understanding, and steadfast support for the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration.

He said: “The theme of this year’s May Day, which is “People First,” resonates profoundly with the resolve of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration in placing the welfare and empowerment of every worker within Lagos State beyond other considerations.

“Under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Government has implemented a plethora of social intervention programmes that are targeted at enhancing the well-being of the populace.”

Also speaking, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, said the theme of the 2024 May Day celebration, which is “People First,” reflects the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to prioritising the well-being, welfare, and prosperity of workers and citizens at large in Lagos State.

During the May Day celebration attended by thousands of workers from the public and private sectors, over 50 unions from different sectors took part in the march past.

YORUBA WEEK: SANWO-OLU’S ADMINISTRATION WRITES LAGOS ASSEMBLY, SETS DATE FOR CELEBRATION ®™√ INN Nigeria © — 30 Apr 2024

YORUBA WEEK: SANWO-OLU’S ADMINISTRATION WRITES LAGOS ASSEMBLY, SETS DATE FOR CELEBRATION ®™√ INN Nigeria ©

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A letter from the executive arm of the Lagos State government to the state House of Assembly has announced a decision to set the last week of September every year for the celebration of the Yoruba culture.

The decision of the government followed a resolution passed by the Lagos Assembly at a sitting held on September 19, 2023.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, who signed the letter dated April 8, 2024, told the lawmakers that the state would start the plan ahead of the celebration.

“Sequel to the resolution of the House at its plenary of Tuesday, 19th September, 2023, on the activation of Yoruba cultural heritage and a special day to be assigned as Yoruba day, I have the directive to officially convey Mr. Governor’s approval for the last week of September as Yoruba Week,” a part of the letter, which was read by the Clerk of the House, Barr. Olalekan Onafeko, stated.

Commending Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his cabinet for the decision, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, described it as a good development.

He described the Yoruba culture and heritage as very important just as he stressed the need for its preservation.

The Speaker said the House is ready to support the executive to ensure the success of the planned Yoruba Week.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday held a minute silence in honour of the late former Governor of old Anambra State, Chukwuemeka Ezeife, who was buried recently while the House was on recess.

Speaker Mudashiru Obasa described the late politician as a pan-Nigerian who supported the Yorubas and the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) especially during the dark days of military reign and following the struggle for Chief MKO Abiola.

“We remember how he proudly stepped down for Olu Falae back then in 1999,” Dr. Obasa said.

LAGOS STATE UNIVERSITY (LASU) COMMENDS GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU’S ELECTRIFICATION INITIATIVE ®™√ INN Nigeria © — 26 Apr 2024

LAGOS STATE UNIVERSITY (LASU) COMMENDS GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU’S ELECTRIFICATION INITIATIVE ®™√ INN Nigeria ©

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Lagos State University (LASU) representatives visited the Office of Rural Development on the 25th of April 2024, to extend gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his pivotal role in advancing the institution’s infrastructure.

The focal point of their appreciation was the recent provision of a transformer to the university, made possible through Governor Sanwo-Olu’s Electrification Initiative.

Led by representatives acting on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the LASU delegation was warmly received by the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor On Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje.

Expressing their profound appreciation, the LASU team explained the transformative impact of the electrification initiative on the university community.

The delegation hailed the initiative as a significant milestone that would alleviate the longstanding challenges of power supply within the university premises.

They emphasized the pivotal role the new transformers would play in enhancing the learning environment, enabling students to engage in academic pursuits for longer hours without interruption.

Furthermore, the LASU representatives highlighted the broader societal implications of the electrification initiative.

By illuminating previously dimly lit areas on campus, the initiative is poised to deter antisocial behavior and uphold a zero-tolerance policy towards miscreants.

This aspect is crucial in ensuring the safety and security of students, faculty, and staff members within the university community.

Members of the LASU delegation included prominent figures such as Prof. M.O.B. Mohammed, the Director of the Centre for General Nigerian Studies, along with Dr. M.D. Rufai, Dr. T.O. Shittu, Mrs. H.I. Onasanya, and Mrs. M.A. Abudu.

“Our collective visit and expression of gratitude serve as a testament to the tangible benefits derived from Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure and fostering a conducive learning environment within Lagos State University”.

“The electrification initiative not only illuminates physical spaces but also symbolizes the illuminating path towards progress and development in the educational sector, displaying Governor Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to the advancement of higher education in Lagos State” the team collectively explained.