LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT REFUNDS 145 FORMER SUBSCRIBERS OF EGAN HOUSING ESTATE
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged all community associations to promote peace and unity within their communities, emphasising the importance of working together to safeguard the state’s progress.
Sanwo-Olu made the call during the 2024 Community Day celebration, held at the Police College ground in Ikeja. It was organised by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, with the theme ‘Stronger Together: Building a Resilient Community’.
The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, noted that the annual event has become a key platform for recognising the invaluable contributions of community development bodies across the state.
He stressed the need for peaceful co-existence, particularly in the light of global challenges, and urged Lagosians to remain united, regardless of their religious, cultural, or social backgrounds.
“As we celebrate today, I urge all Lagosians, represented by the over 5,000 Community Development Associations (CDAs) here, to continue supporting our shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous Lagos.
“Let us stay vigilant and united against any actions that may jeopardise our investments, infrastructure, or heritage. The consequences of destabilisation would be devastating for all of us,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of the people and ensuring their voices are heard. He emphasised that the theme aligned with the Lagos Resilience Strategy, which seeks to create a stronger, more adaptable city capable of overcoming both local and global challenges.
The governor also outlined several initiatives his administration has undertaken in the last five years to help Lagosians adapt to economic and social pressures. These include the EKO CARES programme, designed to cushion the impact of economic reforms, a 25 per cent reduction in BRT transport fares, a 35 per cent wage increase for civil servants, and other targeted interventions to support the people.
“Through these innovative policies and interventions, we are working to mitigate the effects of both global and local economic challenges on our citizens.
“Additionally, we have established the Non-Partisan Special Dispensation Advisory Council, which includes human rights activists, religious leaders, youth representatives, and members of opposition parties. This council ensures that our intervention programmess are inclusive, fair, and effective.”
The Governor’s Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekini, praised the vital role of Community Development Associations (CDAs) as key stakeholders in the socio-economic development of Lagos.
He highlighted the administration’s investments in critical infrastructure projects to include rural roads, electrification, among others.