BABAJIMI BENSON COMMISSIONED 2 BLOCKS OF SIX CLASSROOMS IN IKORODU DIVISION | Shakiru Seidu ....Celebrates Birthday in Grand Style

It was a day to be reckoned with, Thursday, 30th of March, 2017, when a wind of authentic change blew in Ikorodu Division, a day that the people of Ikorodu federal Constituency enjoyed the dividend of democracy.

Hon. Babajimi Benson, MHR, on that day commissioned two blocks six classrooms at Maya primary school and Community primary school Ori-Okuta, in Ikorodu North and Imota LCDA respectively. This also went along with his birthday celebration.

At Maya primary School, Hon Babajimi Benson firstly went round the classes to greet the pupils and encouraged them to pay more attention to their studies, after which he went on a minute silent with others to honor late Koro, who was murdered recently at Maya.

He however applauded the people of Maya Community and Ikorodu North LCDA for the undiluted support given towards his aspiration.

The SUBEB Chairman, Dr. Oluremi Ganiu Shopeyin, who was ably represented by one of the Board members, Barr. Shodeyi, Education Secretary Ikorodu, Mr Taiwo Oduloye, former Commissioner for Information, Lagos State, Otunba Ayodele Elesho, expressed joy and enthusiasm towards the performance of Hon. Babajimi Benson and for his tenacity of purpose.

After cutting the tape, the attention shifted to Community Primary School, Ori-Okuta, where another 3 Classrooms block was commissioned.

It was however difficult for Rev. Col. Titilayo Bolaji Onafowokan and the Sole Administrator, Imota LCDA, Hon Femi Okedeyi to hide their feelings about the quality representation of Hon. Babajimi Benson.

Some of the people who witnessed the commissioning include: the SUBEB Chairman, who was represented by Barr. Shodeyi, Baale of Maya, Hon. Alade Olukoya, Mr Taiwo Oduloye, Otunba Ayodele Elesho, Chief Adewunmi, Chief Sulaimon Ogidi, Princess Folashade Oba, Comr. Daini Olusesan, Adewale Bolowotan, Sole Administrator, Ikorodu North, iCARE Team, APC faithfuls among others.

When Igbogbo/Baiyeku Info Magazine and some other Press men engaged Hon. Babajimi Benson in an interview, he thanked Hon SOB Agunbiade, Hon. Nurudeen Sholaja and others who have made it possible for him to achieve the laudable project, not forgetting the vibrancy and doggedness of Ikorodu Division which has been a motivating factor.

He also established that each project commissioned cost about #14 million of which the benefit will surely go round. Very soon. He further affirmed that  another structure of such magnitude will be commissioned at Primary Health Centre, Igbogbo.

Concerning the Lagos at 50, Hon Babajimi Benson, appreciates the passion of Ikorodu division and established that the move had been taken to fashion out solution. He therefore enjoined the people of Ikorodu Division to be calm and appreciate the 2017 budget of Lagos State that favoured our division.

The programme attracted encomium as people of high and mighty and of unquestionable repute gathered at the constituency office of Hon JB to felicitate and with him as he celebrate his Birthday. Some of the notable dignitaries at the party were the Majority Leader, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. SOB Agunbiade, Hon. Nurudeen Sholaja, former SSG, Princess Adenrele Ogunsanya, Otunba Ayodele Elesho, Hon Saheed Ibikunle, Lagos East Senatorial Youth Leader, Alhaji Adekoya Bashir, and Hon. Sogo.

Others were Princess Folashade Oba, Comrade Daini Olusesan, Hon Owolabi Anifowose, Adewale Bolowotan, Kunle Odumade, Prof. Abiodun Baresi, Hon. Kazeem Ogunfodunrin, Odumbo Taiwo, the iCARE Team under the leadership of Mayor Seen Sanwoola and Mr Bayo Oteju, Party leaders, youth leaders and other well wishers.

SHAKIRU SEIDU
The Publisher, Igbogbo/Baiyeku Info Magazine
The genuine VOICE of Ikorodu Division

AMBODE HAS MADE ME PROUD- TINUBU | Shakiru Seidu …Commissions Aboru-Abesan Link Bridge, Network of Roads, Health Centre …Gov Commences Construction Of Seven Lagos-Ogun Boundary Roads

National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday poured accolades on the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode over his sterling performance in the last 22 months, saying that the Governor has made him proud.

Speaking while commissioning network of roads, link bridge and health centre in Alimosho area of the State as part of activities to mark his 65th birthday, Tinubu said the achievements of Ambode in office was a reflection of a Governor who is not only a thinker but a doer, and expressed satisfaction that he was delivering on the promises to the people.

He said: "Akinwunmi Ambode has reflected that clearly here today. I want to say thank you because experience is a great teacher and I am experienced. I am on the spot and I have watched things in Lagos since my tenure ended.

"I was worried hell when you (Ambode) took over, not about your credibility, character or capacity, but because however wise or smart a man is, if there is no resources to back the ideas, production would be zero, progress would be zero.

"When you (Ambode) took over, I know you inherited a burden of debt. The debt profile of Lagos was high, I was wondering how you will reengineer and face the challenges to make progress.

"Today, I can see your report card, you have scored well, and you have shown prudency especially in the judicious use of resources of the State.

 "You didn't disappoint us. Ambode is silently achieving, meticulously planning, religiously executing and brilliantly giving results for Lagos State,” the former Lagos governor said.

Tinubu said all over Lagos, the results of good governance was being felt by the people, and wished Ambode sound health and wisdom to continue to lead the State.

"All over Lagos, we are seeing the results. At Oshodi, on our way down here, you can see what is happening there, that place is a construction site. It used to be a den of robbers but what is going on there now is developmental activities for the benefit of the entire country.

"Ambode is very quiet, very peaceful, not a noise maker, but he is delivering on the job.

"Today, you (Ambode) have given me a good birthday present. This is a great opportunity for me to be very proud again. Therefore, if we can continue in this direction of infrastructural development in the manner Governor Ambode is moving, Lagos will soon match international states or country anywhere in the world" Tinubu said.

In his remarks, Governor Ambode described the event as a historic day in the life of the people of Alimosho and the State in general.

He recalled his visit to the Aboru area in March 2016, saying that aside the state of the road which was totally unacceptable, there were reports of series of deaths and fatal accidents caused by the presence of a valley, adding that he immediately directed that work should commence in the area.

“Exactly one year after, we are here to keep our promise to the good people of Aboru, Abesan and other communities and reaffirm our commitment that no community or area will be left behind. Every Lagosian counts. We are a government of inclusion,” the Governor said.

He said the 480 metres bridge linking Aboru to Abesan, both in the Agbado Oke-Odo Local Council of Alimosho Local Government Area would significantly ease the burden of travel between the two communities by reducing travel time and eliminating the risks associated with its non-existence.

Governor Ambode said aside the Bridge, additional adjoining inner roads to create an efficient road network that will aid connectivity permanently were also constructed.

He listed the roads to include Church Street, Giwa Street, Victor Fagbemi Road, Ogunfayo Road, Ogundare Street, Salami Kazeem, all totalling 5.5km with drainage, walkways and street lights adding that the road network would ease the pressure on the Abeokuta Expressway and links residents with Iyana Ipaja, LASU-Iba Expressway.

Governor Ambode also flagged off the commissioning the construction of a network of roads within the boundaries of Lagos and Ogun States, saying that it was in honour of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as the brain behind the 21^st century Lagos.

He expressed optimism that the roads which have been identified for immediate construction and rehabilitation would complete the new face of Alimosho constituency, saying that work would commence next week.

He listed the roads to include Ikola Road with Odo Obasanjo Bridge – 6.4km (from Ipaja/Command to Ilo River); Ogunseye Road – 1.75km (from Ajasa/Command to Ikola Road);Oko Filling Road – 1.5km (from AIT to Ilo River); Osenatu Ilo road – 620m (from Ibari Road to Ilo River); Amikanle road – 3.1km (from AIT to Ogunseye Road); Aina Aladi road – 1.9km (from AIT to Ilo River) and Aiyetoro Road with a bridge– 1.4km (from New Market/Ishefun Road intersection to Ilo River).

He however appealed to the residents of the communities to cooperate with the contractors so as to enable them deliver the network of roads not later than the scheduled completion date.

Also, State of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and Senator representing Lagos West at the Senate, Solomon Olamilekan Adeola said it was obvious that Governor Ambode started well and is doing well, and solicited the cooperation of the people to engender further dividends of democracy and good governance.

TINUBU, A MADE IN NIGERIA PRODUCT THAT IS WORKING - AMBODE …FG Copying Lagos Template To Revive Economy, Says Finance Minister …As Buhari, Osinbajo, Sambo, Others Honour Ex-Lagos Gov At 65

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday described the former Governor of the State and National Leader of All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a great Nigerian political product and a successful leader who not only mentored many leaders in the country but laid the solid foundation for the sustained progress of the State.

Speaking at 9th Colloquium held at Eko Hotels & Suits in Lagos to mark Tinubu’s 65th birthday, Governor Ambode said the test of any successful leader all over the world was in the number of leaders such leaders created, and that using the said globally accepted parameter, Tinubu without doubt, is a winner.

Ambode likened Tinubu to a coconut blessed with divine task to be fruitful and useful to humanity, versatile, courageous, which could bear fruit for a long time.

"Like the coconut, some by-products/fruits will get bad along the way or after being sold in the market; in actual fact, the political product may not be the favourite of some other people.

"The bottom line, however, is simple.  If Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, were a coconut; I dare say, with all simplicity, I would be among the forefront liners that will eat, drink and sleep B.A.T. 24/7," Ambode said.

While alluding to Tinubu’s contribution to the growth of the State, Governor Ambode said: “There is no doubt the Asiwaju political dynasty is a made in Nigeria product.  The foundation laid and blueprints developed during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State which cuts across all sections of the State’s economy have actually simplified the process of governance till date.

“His blueprint has continued to serve as a road map to achieving the Lagos of his and our dreams.  This same political product without doubt, traverses the Nigerian landscape and that is evident with the emergence of the APC at the centre in 2015. Asiwaju is a made in Nigeria product. We should make more products out of him,” the Governor said.

Besides, Governor Ambode described the theme of the Colloquium which is: “Make It In Nigeria: Use What We Make; Make What We Use,” as apt, adding that the partnership between Lagos and Kebbi States which culminated in the production of Lake Rice was an eloquent testimony of the ability of Nigeria to be a producing nation.

He, however, assured that his administration would continue to improve on indices of the ease of doing business to ensure that more products are made in Nigeria for the development and growth of our nation.

On his part, President Muhammadu Buhari described Tinubu as an outstanding politician, great mobilizer, effective in conceiving and planning governmental policies.

"Chief Bola Tinubu is an outstanding Yoruba politician of his generation," he said.

Speaking on the economy, Buhari, who was represented by the Minister of Interior, Abdulrahman Dambazau said that the Federal Government was already putting policies in place to encourage and facilitate Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to promote made in Nigeria goods, adding that same was part of his administration's overall national economic policy.

In her remarks, Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun assured Nigerians that the country would soon be out of the economic recession, revealing that the Federal Government was already copying the Lagos template to revive the economy.

She said the Federal Government recently released N1trillion for capital expenditure to make the economy productive, adding that measures were being taken to bring about multiple streams of revenue.

“The economic template we copied from you (Lagos) is now being implemented for economic recovery of the country and we are not ashamed to say it. The impact of that template is that many of the states are now copying it especially in the area of IGR,” Adeosun said.

Also speaking, the celebrant (Tinubu) said it was time for the Federal Government to press forward with its national industrial policy and national infrastructural plan, especially by creating infrastructural funding from financial institutions.

Tinubu, who commended the present leadership of the country, also advocated the need to embrace other forms of power generation and incentives to bring back some of the manufacturing companies that hitherto left Nigeria due to unfriendly business environment. 

Dignitaries at the event included Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo; former Vice President, Namadi Sambo, former and serving governors, Senators, politicians, entrepreneurs, among others.

LAGOS UNVEILS 50-DAY EVENT PLAN FOR GOLDEN JUBILEE CELEBRATION …To Feature Fela Musical Concert, Eyo Festival, Carnival, Jazz Festival, Others

The Lagos @ 50 Planning Committee on Monday unveiled range of activities for the final celebration of the State’s Golden Jubilee anniversary.

Addressing a world press conference at the Banquet Hall in Lagos House, Ikeja, Co-chair of the Lagos @ 50 Planning Committee, Mr Habeeb Fasinro said the final lap of the celebration would kick off on Saturday, April 8 and culminate on Saturday, May 27, 2017.

Fasinro, who was joined at the conference by other members of the Committee including Professor Ademola Abass, Hon. Adebimpe Akinsola, Mrs. Sarah Boulos, Mrs. Chika Balogun, said the events lined up for the celebration has been carefully selected to tell the story and journey from 1967 when the State was created till date.

He said the event would kick off on April 8, with a special Musical Play tagged “Wakaa” produced and directed by ace producer and director, Bolanle Austen-Peters at the Muson Centre, Onikan Lagos.

He said the celebration would continue on April 13 with a three-day Broadway Musical Concert tagged “FELA” that would feature the life and times and the Afrobeat creator, Fela Anikulapo Kuti and celebrate his pioneering music to be performed by a combined cast of the original Broadway production and the Royal National Theatre production under Bill T. Jones.

The Co-chair said a Boat Regatta parade would also hold on April 15 in Epe, Badagry and Lagos Island to showcase the State’s aquatic asset to residents and visitors alike, while a Jazz Meets Fashion event would take place on April 30 and would see Grammy award winning Jazz artistes share the stage with Nigerian musicians while the evolution of fashion in Lagos State over the past 50 years will also dominate the runway.

Fasinro said the celebration would continue on May 1 with a Special Workers’ Day celebration by both active and retired civil servants with a special parade in the morning at the Agege Stadium and a dinner in the evening, adding that on May 5, five of the highest box office films and five evergreen films would be screened to local audience in the five divisions of the State including Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe.

He said a Lagos Carnival would also hold on May 13 in both the Island and Mainland zones of the State and extend to the different communities and ethnic groups in Lagos, while the Eyo Festival, last staged five years ago, would make a grand return on May 20 at the Tafawa Balewa Square.

He also said on May 24, all former Governors of the State will join Governor Akinwunmi Ambode in council for a Special State Executive Council Session, while the Judiciary and House of Assembly would hold same on May 18 and May 22 respectively.

He said among other events, the grand finale slated for May 27, which coincides with Children’s Day Celebration would feature a historic gala night that would have a rich blend of good music and the best of Lagos cuisine, photo exhibition and the unveiling of a special coffee table book that captures the essence of Lagos through the lens of 50 accomplished photographers.

He said though the 50-day celebration ends on May 27, the celebration of the State’s Golden Jubilee would continue beyond throughout the year with series of festivals and events to celebrate the State’s rich cultural heritage.

Fasinro also enjoined residents to key into the various events, adding that the anniversary is “a celebration of Lagosians, by Lagosians, for Lagosians”.

Earlier, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, said May 27, 2016 when the events flagged off, there had been series of events that had held on the 27^th of every month to mark Lagos @ 50.

SAFETY OF LAGOSIANS NOW NON-NEGOTIABLE – AMBODE …Empowers Neighbourhood Corps With 177 Vehicles, 377 Motorcycles, 4,000 Bicycles, Others …Says Bill To Regulate Domestic Workers, Security Guards Underway

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday launched the rebranded Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, with a pledge that the security of lives and property in the State is now non-negotiable.

A total of 177 Salon Cars and Vehicles equipped with necessary communication gadgets, 377 motorcycles, 377 helmets, 4,000 bicycles, metal detectors for ensuring that illegal weapons are not smuggled into public places, among other operational equipment were handed over to the Corps by the Governor. 

Speaking at the official launch held at Agege Stadium, Governor Ambode said the move was another giant step towards enhancing security all over the State and a vital part of the ongoing efforts of his administration to reform the security and justice sector.

The Governor, who on August 15, 2016 assented to the law that created the Neighbourhood Safety Corps, said the Corps had been designed to provide a second layer of policing in order to ensure that the State and communities are more secure.

He acknowledged the fact that the Nigerian Police had been very supportive to the State Government especially in fighting crime, but that the need for the Neighbourhood Corps arose from the identified security challenges confronting the State due to huge population, adding that the members of the Corps would complement police especially in areas of community policing. 

“Let me, however, make it abundantly clear that the Neighbourhood Safety Corps is not in any way in competition with the regular Police Force.

“In actual fact, they are expected to assist and complement the Police by providing useful intelligence for crime prevention and to facilitate the arrest of perpetrators of criminal activities in our communities,” Governor Ambode said. 

He added that in realization of the fact that nothing can be more important in law enforcement than educating the people in charge of enforcing the law, the rebranded Neighbourhood Corps have been trained and equipped with the requisite knowledge and skills to complement the good work of the Nigerian Police.

He said in addition to the induction on orthodox community policing techniques, the Corps were also trained on how to mediate disputes and the art of negotiating for peaceful resolution; balancing communal interest in resolving disputes and proactive policing engagement instead of reactive policing.

“Special hotlines have also been created direct to the Executive Secretary and senior management of the Neighbourhood Safety Corps Agency for easy communication with our communities in the event of any crime.

“Any valuable information given to the Corps will attract handsome rewards from the State Government. I therefore call on all Lagosians to join hands with us to say a final NO to crime in our State.

“All these equipment have been made possible through the judicious use of tax payers money and funds from the State Lottery Fund for good causes. Please continue to pay your taxes for a better Lagos.

“I am very happy to state that through this Safety Corps initiative the State Government has created over 7,000 jobs for officers of the Corps, artisans and other support staff. Job creation is at the heart of economic prosperity and we remain fully committed to a more prosperous Lagos for our citizens,” the Governor said.

The Governor, however, charged the Corps not to indulge in brutalizing citizens, but that they should exercise lot of restraint, patience, understanding and maturity while carrying out their duties.

Besides, the Governor said in order to further strengthen security, a new executive bill to regulate employment of domestic workers and security guards would soon be forwarded to the State House of Assembly, explaining that the bill, among others, will prescribe regulations for the set of workers and other details to monitor their activities.

While noting that there is no longer any room for child abuse or under aged workers, Governor Ambode said it had been discovered that domestic workers were largely undocumented and pose a grave security threat in the State.

He also said the recruiting agencies, under the bill, would be licensed and regulated to ensure safety.

The Governor also handed over four vans fitted with Close Circuit Television Cameras (CCTVs) to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of the State Police Command.  

Earlier, Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Mr Oluseye Oladejo said the launch of the Neighbourhood Corps and the handing over of several equipment to the agency was an eloquent testimony of a visionary government which had decided to move ahead of emerging challenges of crime.

FASHOLA’S ACHIEVEMENTS AS GOVERNOR COMMENDABLE - AMBODE …Pledges To Collaborate With FG On Projects …As Minister Visits Gov, Pledges To Refund Debt Owed State

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Saturday lauded his predecessor in office and Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola for his achievements during the eight years he spent as Governor of the State.

Governor Ambode, who spoke when he received Fashola and some top officials of the Ministry on a courtesy visit at the Lagos House, Ikeja, described the visit as historic, adding that it was gratifying to receive the Minister for the first time at the Lagos House, Ikeja since he left office on May 29, 2015.

He said: “On behalf of the people of Lagos State, I would like to wholeheartedly welcome Mr. Babatunde Fashola, my predecessor and now Minister for Works, Power and Housing and especially back to the Alausa office where he actually left about 22 months ago.

“I want to say that this is a historic moment for us, notwithstanding that the Honourable Minister lives in Lagos, this is the first time he is stepping his feet into the Alausa premises and we need to honour him for that and say a big thank you for coming back home.”

Governor Ambode also lauded Fashola for serving the State meritoriously, saying that his administration improved on the template already laid down during the previous administration. 

“We want to say that whatever it is that we have done in the last 22 months is just more or less a fall out of the great achievements the former governor had already put in place.

“We have decided that we would carry on with a sense of continuity in all the things that have been done. I had always said that what we wanted was this continuity of the last 18 years, but continuity with improvement and we are happy that all that has been done in the last 22 months is just a continuation of the template the former Governor left behind.

“We are happy that the sense of collaboration that we have expressed here is what we believe can carry whatever it is that Lagos stands for, moving forward. As you may be aware, Lagos is celebrating its 50 years of existence this year.

“The last 18 years has been so dramatic and historic in terms of the growth and development that we have seen in Lagos, commencing from 1999 when Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu came into office and the eight good years spent by you and the two years we have done. So, obviously, there is a remarkable change between 1999 and now,” Governor Ambode said.

The Governor also pledged to expand the existing collaboration with the Federal Government, saying that it would not only benefit Lagosians, but Nigerians in general.

He assured that the requests made by the Minister in regard to Housing projects of the Federal Government and other road construction would be accelerated, while also expressing optimism that the debts owed Lagos would be refunded.

“I continue to say that we would support the Minister in every way that is possible, everything that we have actually talked about in terms of debt by the Ministry as it relates to projects, the Minister is actually more vast than me in these areas and in this agitations having done the same thing for eight years, obviously he is not somebody that we would want to convert to our passion or our request because he used to be part of what we have always asked for,” Ambode said.

Earlier, Fashola who described the visit as home-coming for him, said he had come with his team to Lagos as part of a nationwide project monitoring exercise to inspect the job done so far on Federal Government projects.

He assured that the Ministry had made representations to the Federal Executive Council on modalities to pay debts owed State Governments including Lagos State for rehabilitation of federal roads over the years, saying that the debts would be paid through bond instrument.

The Minister also expressed readiness to assist Lagos State power initiative, especially in the rural areas.

It would be recalled that Governor Ambode recently set machinery in motion to attain 24-hour power supply through generation of 3,000 megawatts of electricity by 2022.

AMBODE UNVEILS PLANS TO CONSTRUCT 6,000 BED HOSTEL IN LASU ...As 36,540 Students Graduate From Institution

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday revealed plans by his administration to build a 6000-bed hostel within the campus of Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo in partnership with the private sector to improve on the learning experience in the institution.

Speaking at the 21st Convocation ceremony of LASU held at the university's auditorium complex, Governor Ambode said government will continue to invest in infrastructure in tertiary institutions in the State including LASU to make them emerge as great citadels of learning and pride of all.

While commending the management and governing council of the institution for the professionalism with which the affairs of LASU had been piloted, Governor Ambode charged them to build on the ranking of the institution as the Best State University in Nigeria to become one of the best five universities in the country by 2020.

The Governor particularly encouraged the management to work assiduously to make LASU emerge as the preferred university of choice by 2025.

He said: “You will recall that at the 20th Convocation of this institution last year, I made a commitment that our Government will invest massively here and upgrade its status to that obtainable anywhere around the world provided all stakeholders can ensure that peace reigns on Campus.

“One of the results of that is the accreditation of this institution’s School of Dentistry; the only State University to have an accredited School of Dentistry.

“We will continue to invest in physical and social infrastructure in this University. We have many projects nearing completion and these legacy projects when completed will no doubt change the entire overview of the landscape of the university. One of these projects is a PPP arrangement to deliver a 6,000-bed hostel for LASU.”

Besides, Governor Ambode urged students of the institution to take advantage of the Ready.Set.Work (RSW) initiative of the State Government to learn necessary entrepreneurial skills to be self-dependent and employer of labour, rather than looking for job after graduating from school.

He said with programmes such as RSW, government will continue to develop the capacity of tertiary institutions in the State to produce graduates who are immediately employable upon entry into the labour market.

While congratulating the eminent Nigerians who were deservedly honoured at the convocation ceremony, the Governor admonished the graduands to be good ambassadors of LASU and the State, especially by conquering the world.

Earlier, LASU Chancellor and retired justice of Supreme Court, Justice Adesola Oguntade, and Chairman of Governing Council of the Institution, Professor Adebayo Ninalowo, in their respective speeches, commended Governor Ambode for matching his words with action in terms of huge investment in infrastructure and academic excellence in the Institution.

They observed that the repositioning of LASU initiated and sustained by the Governor was already yielding results with the recent ranking of the institution as the Best State University in Nigeria in 2016 by the National Universities Commission (NUC), and the first State University to secure full accreditation of its Faculty of Dentistry by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, among other numerous achievements.

Also, Vice Chancellor of LASU, Professor Olanrewaju Fagbohun thanked the Governor for progressively implementing reforms in the institution, saying while the management of LASU was not resting, it nonetheless can conveniently assert that graduates of the institution have been imbued with cutting-edge ethics and intellectual capabilities to contribute meaningfully to the society.

He also urged public spirited Nigerians to come to the aid of the institution especially in building additional lecture halls, among others.

A total of 36, 540 students graduated from various faculties and obtained certificates ranging from diploma, first degree and higher degrees.

Honourary awards were also presented to some eminent Nigerians. They are former NUC Executive Secretary, Professor Peter Okebukola; foremost industrialist, Sir Adebutu Kessington; and one of the richest black women in the world, Chief Mrs Folorunsho Alakija.

OTODO GBAME: WE’LL NOT HESITATE TO SAVE ENVIRONMENT FROM DEGRADATION- LASG …Says Govt Willing To Explore Channels For Amicable Resolution

The Lagos State Government on Wednesday said it would not fold its arms and watch the continuous breach of Environmental and Urban Planning laws of the State, which could pose serious danger to public health and safety of residents.

State’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, in a statement, also said the Government would neither be stampeded nor blackmailed into abdicating its constitutional responsibilities to guard against a potential health and environmental hazard in the area by condoning what amounts to a breach of environmental and urban planning laws.

Clarifying its position on why illegal shanties and unwholesome habitation were cleared around Ilado and seafront areas beside Freedom Road, in Lekki, Lagos, Ayorinde said the Environment Ministry’s action was carried out in order to forestall an environmental disaster and another round of deadly skirmishes that led to the razing of the Otodo Gbame Community in November 2016.

The Government denied flouting any court judgment as incorrectly alleged, insisting that it owes a duty to the larger population of the State to ensure that public health and safety is maintained.

According to the statement, the Otodo Gbame Community is one of the 39 claimant communities that had commenced action to enforce their fundamental rights pursuant to Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules 2009 before Onigbanjo. J of Lagos Division of the High Court of Lagos State in Suit No. LD/4232MFHR/2016..AKAKPO & 38 ORS vs. AG L/S & 3 ORS.

It added however that the trial judge did not deliver judgment on the matter but rather referred the parties to Multi-Door Court House for mediation.

Ayorinde said: “The leave granted to enforce their rights was tantamount to an order of status quo ante bellum on the parties, which amongst other things, required that the claimants do not take any action within the area after it was destroyed by fire.

“The undisputed fact is that Otodo Gbame was engulfed by fire that razed down the entire community in November 2016, which rendered the area uninhabitable.”

According to the Commissioner, since the claimants had submitted the case for adjudication, it would be unacceptable for them to return to the area or to erect shanties and perpetuate unsanitary and environmentally dangerous conditions, hence, the need for the government to maintain order and public safety.

The statement maintained that the State Government was mindful of the welfare of the affected citizens and had indeed expressed its concerns and willingness to explore an amicable resolution in so far that the demands of the claimants are reasonable and lawful.

The statement reminded the public that Lagos State Government had swiftly responded through its fire services and emergency rescue operations as well as the Police to assist the residents and nearby locations when the entire community was razed down in November 2016 as a result of inter-ethnic clashes there.

Ayorinde stated that the State Government had no interest in the area other than to ensure that the delicate ecosystem of the waterfront remains safe, clean and secure.

He added the State Government appreciates the understanding of the general public and assures its unflinching commitment to the development of the State as an ideal megacity that is sensitive to the needs of the public as well as open and continuous dialogue.

IGBOGBO INDIGENE MAKES WORLD CUP FIFA REFEREE HISTORY

Big things they say happen to those who are brave enough to chase their dreams.

Such is the case of Igbogbo, Ikorodu division born football referee, Ogunmuyiwa Jelili who would make FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup history in Bahamas come April 2017.

For being part of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup scheduled to hold in Nassau, Bahamas, from April 27 to May 7, 2017, alongside 23 other referees from different confederations, Ogunmuyiwa would become the first man from Africa to handle World Cup matches at five different tournaments.

Also, he would become the referee with the highest number of FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup appearances only behind Moraes Ivo of Brazil who is attending his sixth Beach Soccer World Cup Tournament.

Before now, Ogunmuyiwa who was badged a FIFA Referee in the year 2008 made his first FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup appearance in Marseille in 2008. Following an eye-catching debut, he attended his second World Cup tournament in Dubai in 2009 after he was listed by the football governing body.

The lanky referee was again part of the beach soccer tourney in Ravenna, Italy 2011 before attending his fourth tournament in Portugal in 2015.

Apart from officiating at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup level, Ogunmuyiwa Jelili has consistently handled top level matches in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL).

Since the commencement of the annual beach soccer event, COPA Lagos in 2011, he has officiated in every edition of the annual tournament till date.

Ogunmuyiwa’s credentials also include; FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, AFCON Qualifiers DURBAN (2008), FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, AFCON Qualifiers DURBAN (2009), FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup, AFCON Qualifiers, Eljadida (2013), and African Beach Soccer Qualifier (Egypt Vs Tanzania, Cairo) 2015.

Other major tournaments he has officiated include African Beach Soccer Championship, Seychelles (2015), and AFCON Beach Soccer Qualifiers (Cape Verde Vs Senegal, Cape Verde) 2016 and African Beach Soccer Championship, Nigeria (2016).

Furthermore, this will be the first time ever that the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup will be held in the CONCACAF region.

To determine the winner of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2017, a total of 32 games will be played among 16 teams that qualified for the tourney.

SHAKIRU SEIDU
Igbogbo/Baiyeku Info Magazine

STATES MUST EXPLORE COMPARATIVE ADVATANGE TO DRIVE ECONOMIC GROWTH – AMBODE ...As FG Lauds Lagos-Kebbi Partnership On Food Security

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday identified the need for States to learn from each other and explore their various areas of strength and strategic partnership to engender economic development.

The Governor, who spoke at Lagos House in Ikeja when he received members of the National Economic Council (NEC) Implementation Monitoring Committee on Retreat on the Economy led by the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Hajiya Zainab Maina, also urged the Federal Government to create a framework that would allow States to benefit from each other with the view to fostering concentric cycle of growth in the country.

Governor Ambode commended the Committee for choosing Lagos as the first State to visit, saying that it was a confirmation of the success of the partnership between Lagos and Kebbi State on commodities production.

He said: “The essence of this is that beyond the things that we say in NEC in terms of project, we should be able to find a common platform and a framework that allows every other State to benefit from the comparative advantage that each State is bringing to the table and the choice of Lagos as the first State to visit by the Committee in terms of the project signified how serious we have been able to carry out most of the things we have been doing and what underscores that is what we have been able to achieve in our little time on the partnership with Kebbi State on commodities production in the country.

“We believe strongly that the way to go forward is for us to bring out our comparative advantages in our various States and be able to learn from each other. So, I want to recommend to this Committee that beyond the fact that you are doing visitation, let it end up to be part of the framework to work around peer-review mechanism amongst States and then for us to take advantage of what we are doing.”

The Governor added that beyond partnership with Kebbi State, his administration has also significantly improved on the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Lagos in terms of improving on the productivity of citizens and making life more comfortable for them.

“We have improved so much on security to create that platform to allow people to do their business more comfortably and in doing that, the end result is that when more people are doing their trade and distributing goods and services, it is likely to touch on our IGR and that means more people will pay taxes which at the end of the day we would use to provide more infrastructures.

“So, I want to recommend this template to this Committee that you should observe it and document it also and use it to encourage other States to create that concentric cycle of growth and development in the country,” Governor Ambode said.

The Governor also commended the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo who also doubled as NEC Chairman for taking strong steps to actualize deliberations and conclusions reached at NEC meetings for the greater benefit of the people.

Earlier, Miana said her team was at Lagos House as part of the flag-off of the Implementation Monitoring Visit in line with NEC resolution and the retreat which the Vice President had with Governors in 2016.

She recalled that at the retreat, participants agreed to address 71 key items, noting that Lagos State, out of others, had already presented a good plan to the Committee.

The Minister also commended the partnership between Lagos and Kebbi States, especially the new Rice Milling Plant being developed, saying that the partnership was a sterling example of cooperation to expand growth.

CONFERENCE OF IGBOGBO INDIGENES IN CIVIL/PUBLIC SERVICE RUBBING MINDS WITH THE ADEBORUWA OF IGBOGBO

Success they say is guaranteed when its meets with adequate preparation. This is no doubt what our noble King is set to entrench as he gathered virtually all the Civil Servants who are Igbogbo indigenes to his Palace on Sunday, 19th of March, 2017.

Mr Jide Dankuwo kick started with an opening prayer while proper introduction was done immediately by all and sundry.

In no time, the founder of Hassibunalahi private schools, Alhaji Jelili Abubakri, emphasized the importance of the regular meetings held at Lagos State Public Service Forum, Ikorodu branch. He further affirmed that overtime, Igbogbo has been shortchanged and maligned in terms of Permanent Secretaries in Lagos State. Moreover, he was so passionate of the fact that when it comes to placement in the civil service, Igbogbo indigenes are left out. He therefore sued for utmost importance of Igbogbo indigenes to whom it may concerned.

Furthermore, Mr Yusuf Sanni pleaded with the grassroots political leaders to embrace solidarity and positively accelerate the growth and development of Igbogbo community. He encouraged everyone to brace up and promote unity, peace and progress, while they shun political hullabaloo and unhealthy sentiments that have ran Igbogbo community aground.

HRM Oba Abdulsemiu Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo, in his charismatic manner appreciated everyone and advised them to be excellent and  proactive in their professions. He equally encouraged them to imbibe the spirit of forgiveness by dissolving their grievances to foster unity and progress.

Kabiyesi did not hesitate to scold the youths with nonchalant attitude and their unreadiness to work. Henceforth, he reaffirmed that anyone arrested on any cult related issues will face the full wrath of the law as plead bargain will not surface.

Nevertheless, the Chairman and PRO of the Conference, Mr Gbenga Ogunlewe and Idris Adesina (Adido), who initiated the encounter were delighted simply because Igbogbo has potential. Adido further thanked the Publisher, Igbogbo/Baiyeku Info Magazine, Mr Shakiru Seidu, for his good work and efforts being put together to project and promote Igbogbo positively.

On the final note after Kabiyesi had blessed the participants, Mr Yusuf Sanni was specially called upon to give a closing prayer.

The meeting was graced with the presence of Mr Jide Dankuwo, Dr. Wole Ogunyemi, Engr. Dankuwo, Idris Adesina, Mr Sheriff Jinadu, Barr. Adeboye Dankuwo, Engr. Fatai Disu, Alh. Jelili Abubakri, Mr Mukadeen Idowu, Aroyewun Hameed, Kazeem Ogunmuyiwa, Bisi Ogunlewe, Adeola Jinodu, Engr. Biodun Abayomi, Gbenga Faniyi, Shonubi Francis Mani, and Oduniyi Gbenga to mention but a few.

SHAKIRU SEIDU
The Publisher, Igbogbo/Baiyeku Info Magazine
The genuine VOICE of Ikorodu Division

INCULCATE YORUBA LANGUAGE IN SCHOOL CURRICULUM: OBA KASALI ADVISED AUTHORITY IN EDUCATION SECTOR

The Palace of Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom played host to Zytoon Montessori Schools, Igbogbo, on Tuesday 14th of March, 2017, when the School visited the Palace in a bid to understand the norms and value of the Palace.

Chief Jelili Oduntan, the Balogun of Igbogbo, officially introduced the Palace Chiefs and thereafter taught the pupils the Palace mannerism and how Oba is being greeted in Yoruba land.

Shortly after that, Otunba Lanre Obayomi carefully explained the Palace protocol and advised the School Authority to endeavour to effectively instill Yoruba language speaking in the pupils.

Furthermore, Chief Tajudeen Alade Onasanya, the Odofin of Igbogbo Kingdom, identified a costly mistake being made by all and sundry as foreign language is being preferred to our language, which is gradually driving our cultural heritage into extinct. Moreover, the High Chief did not hesitate to educate the guests on the paraphernalia being used to decorate a king.

There was a perfect decorum when the King, HRM Oba Abdulsemiu Orimadegun Kasali emphasized that the language of the Palace in Lagos State must be our mother tongue according to the new law of Lagos State. He further explains the functions, roles and the etiquette of the Palace. Afterwards, he prayed for the pupils, teachers and the school.

The teacher that led the team, Mrs Olusanya, thanked the King for gladly accommodating them. She thereafter advised that the parents have vital role to play on effective usage of Yoruba language.

Ustas Taofeek Audu, another teacher who accompanied the pupils to the Palace did not hesitate to specially pray for the King and Igbogbo community at large.

SHAKIRU SEIDU
The Publisher, Igbogbo/Bayeku Info Magazine
The genuine VOICE of Ikorodu Division

iCARE FOOD BANK: JB CONTINUES HIS MAGNANIMOUS GESTURE

It was another moment of joy on Saturday, 11th of March, 2017, for the elderly, widows, needy and the vulnerable people in Ikorodu division, when Hon Jimi Benson, MHR, repeated his magnanimous attitude to dole out food at his constituency Office, Igbogbo.

This and some other pleasant gestures of course, had qualified Hon Jimi Benson, MHR, as a symbolic representation of humility and good conscience in Ikorodu division. By his character, JB is repugnant to illiberal and inequitable principles.

The food was accordingly given to the 300 beneficiaries across the whole Ikorodu division, while the process was being monitored by a man of uncommon ideology, Mayor Deen Sanwoola and the entire iCARE Team.

SHAKIRU SEIDU
The Publisher, Igbogbo/Bayeku Info Magazine
The genuine VOICE of Ikorodu Division

GEN. ADEBAYO LIVED A FULFILLED, WORTHY LIFE, AMBODE TELLS WIDOW …Pays Condolence Visit To Family

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday said the late former military governor of defunct Western Region, General Adeyinka Adebayo (rtd) who died on Wednesday morning, lived a fulfilled life worthy of emulation.

Governor Ambode, who spoke when he paid a condolence visit to the widow and family of the late nationalist, Mrs. Dupe Adebayo at their Lagos residence, said though Pa Adebayo passed away on the eve of his 89th birthday, his life and times would continue to be celebrated by Nigerians.

He said the late general was totally committed to unify the Yoruba nation, urging leaders in the region to strive to sustain his legacies.

He said though his death had brought top leaders of the Yoruba nation together to his residence, it was more than a coincidence, but a greater call for those he left behind to protect the unity of the region.

“On behalf of the people of Lagos State, I bring my deepest condolences to the family of a great leader of the Western Region, of a nationalist, of a part finder, of a God fearing man, a trail blazer that set this new set of Yoruba leaders in the right part, that we are able to come here not by coincidence, but the mere fact that he would ordinarily have been marking his 89th birthday today.

“So while we share with mama, this deep sense of loss, we also say congratulations that on a day like this there is a convergence of those that have gone through the school of General Adebayo to be able to come here and wish you well, wish the family well and also celebrate a life that is exemplary, that the younger ones like us have the joy to follow.

He expressed optimism that Pa Adebayo’s death would unify the Yoruba nation more than ever before, a course which he spent the greater part of his life fighting for.

“If he had any last wish, he would have wanted this convergence here in his presence, but I know he is present with u here. The only thing we can do for him is to make that fundamental wish they’ve always had together in the last nine decades that  he was alive, that people like us and the rest of our leadership  will bring to fore the wishes that he ever had for the Yoruba race and the Nigeria nation,” Governor Ambode said.

Those present during the visit include National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former interim Chairman of the APC, Chief Bisi Akande, former governor of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, former governor of Ekiti State and son of the deceased, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Rtd Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe, among others.

AHEAD THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION IN IGBOGBO/BAIYEKU LCDA: HON BOSUN AGORO EMERGED AS CANDIDATE IN THE PRIMARY ELECTION CONDUCTED BY THE JUSTICE FORUM

The atmosphere was not the same at Elder Dawodu's House on Thursday, 9th of March, 2017 as the APC Justice Forum under the leadership of the former LGA Chairman, Pastor Ola Ayetoba, conducted a peaceful, free and fair election for the five aspirants contesting for the Chairmanship Seat in Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA.

The position which had been seeded to Justice Forum by the Mandate Group, Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA to produce a capable and acceptable candidate for the general election.

This was no doubt led to the primary election organized by the Justice Forum at Elder Olatunji Dawodu's house, under the affairs of Pastor Ola Ayetoba.

However, the election was democratically conducted under the chairmanship of Mr H. A. Opere, while Alh. Afolabi, Mr. Issa Ajenifuja, Mrs Akintunde F. A, Mrs Agnes Steven and Mr Akinyanju John Abiodun assisted as members of electoral committee.

Six Party Chieftains from Igbogbo/Baiyeku were present to observe the proceedings, the names include, Mrs Esther Obayomi, Alh. Jamiu Benson, Mr Ashifat Rafiu, Alh. W. A.. Yusuf, Alhaja Jeminat Bakare and Alh. Omotayo Daisi

Moreover, the five contestants include Hon Rotimi Olowonisaye, Hon Bosun Agoro, Hon Olamide Olowu, Hon. Shakiru Orefuwa and Hon Yemisi Odusoga and they were all given plain sheet of paper by the electoral committee to write and sign the oath of allegiance that they will all abide by the result of the election, which they all complied in good faith for the progress of the party.

36 delegates were accredited, 6 delegates from ward C1, 7 delegates from ward C2, 8 delegates from ward C3, 8 delegates from ward C4 and 7 delegates from ward C5. They were all ward excos from their various wards.

Before the commencement of the election proper, Pastor Ola Ayetoba advised the five aspirants to comply with the oath of allegiance and embrace the spirit of love and oneness among themselves.

Furthermore, the election went smoothly with the total number of 41 people voted including the five aspirants. When the ballot papers were counted, they recorded 40 valid votes while one vote was voided, the result is as follows;

Hon Rotimi Olowonisaye  11 votes
Hon Bosun Agoro.              13 votes
Hon Olamide Olowu.          11 votes
Hon Shakiru Orefuwa.       1 vote
Hon Yemisi Odusoga.        4 votes

Having satisfied the required votes by the electoral committee, the electoral Chairman, Mr H. A. Opere declared Hon Bosun Agoro as the winner and candidate to be presented by the Justice forum for the APC, Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA.

Madam Esther Obayomi however thanked the leadership of the Justice forum at Elder Dawodu's house under the leadership of Pastor Ola Ayetoba, for the wisdom they used to manage the five aspirants. She then advised Hon Bosun Agoro to embrace his co-contenders in order to conquer the future challenges.

The wife of the late Justice forum Leader, Mrs Dawodu also thanked everybody and implored them to work together for better achievement.

SHAKIRU SEIDU
The Publisher, Igbogbo/Bayeku Info Magazine
The genuine VOICE of Ikorodu Division