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Tag: Babajide Sanwo-Olu

  • Watch moment Tinubu snubs Sanwo-Olu’s greeting at Lagos-Calabar coastal highway phase 1 inauguration

    Watch moment Tinubu snubs Sanwo-Olu’s greeting at Lagos-Calabar coastal highway phase 1 inauguration

    A video showing the moment President Bola Tinubu snubbed the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, during the inauguration of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway phase 1 has surfaced on social media.

    TheNewsGuru reports that Tinubu on Saturday, May 31, 2025, commissioned the completed sections, Phase 1, Section 1 (30 km of 750 km) of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.

    The Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, Segun Dada, via social media on Saturday shared the video capturing the moment Tinubu visibly shunned Sanwo-Olu’s greeting.

    Tinubu, on his arrival at the venue, greeted all other All Progressives Congress (APC) governors who stood to greet him and ignored Sanwo-Olu when he reached out to him

    Watch the video below;

     

     

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  • How Lagos govt spent N8.5bn to sponsor festivals in one year

    How Lagos govt spent N8.5bn to sponsor festivals in one year

    The Lagos State Government on Wednesday said it spent N8.5 billion to sponsor over 143 festivals and events in the last one year.

    The Commissioner, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka, disclosed this at the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing in commemoration of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second year in office for second term.

    Benson-Awoyinka said this was aimed at reshaping the creative and tourism landscape of the state.

    “Through the ministry, the Creative Arts Department sponsored the festival with the sum of approximately N8,475,238,265 billion.

    “The ministry stands as a key driver in shaping the creative and tourism landscape, tasked with developing, implementing and promoting policies that unlock the full potential of the state’s vibrant culture, rich heritage and thriving hospitality sector.”

    She said that the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture and Lagos State Films and Videos Censors Board complemented the efforts of the ministry in fulfilling its mandates.

    “Over the past year, we have expanded our reach, deepened strategic partnerships both locally and internationally, and delivered impactful initiatives that not only showcase the beauty and diversity of Lagos but also empower our youth and creative entrepreneurs.

    “Today, I am proud to present the key achievements and milestones recorded by the ministry in the last 12 months, proof of this administration’s unwavering commitment to making Lagos the creative and tourism capital of Africa,” she said.

    Highlighting the government’s impactful achievements, Benson-Awoyinka said that the ministry continued to prioritise regular engagement with key stakeholders to assess the state of the tourism sector.

    She said it also explored viable avenues for governmental intervention.

    According to her, the ministry also issued endorsement letters to over 124 creative stakeholders to support their efforts in seeking sponsorship for their various initiatives.

    She added: “This robust investment reflects the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to positioning Lagos as the leading hub for arts, culture, and entertainment in Africa.

    “The supported initiatives span community festivals, cultural showcases, entertainment events, fashion weeks, art exhibitions, industry engagements, youth empowerment platforms, and global tourism summits.

    “Each initiative contributes significantly to cultural preservation, economic stimulation, job creation, tourism inflow, and global media visibility reinforcing Lagos’s brand as a dynamic creative capital and one of the continent’s most vibrant cultural destinations,” she said.

    She listed sponsored events, programmes and festivals which include, Brazilian Descendant Arts & Culture Association (BDACA), Lagos Shopping Festival, Twin Fest Africana, Groove and Food Festival, Nigeria Soup Festival, TM Perfume Launch and Sango World Festival.

    Others include Kenny Saint Ogungbe Concert, Go Culture, Ede Mi Asa Mi Festival, Africa Fashion Designers Award, NCCH Adire & Food Festival, Wear Nigeria Fashion Exhibition, Night of Tribute for Late Dejumo Lewis, Kurunmi: The Stage Play and Inter-Schools Cultural Quiz.

    According to her, the government’s investments align with the fifth pillar of the administration’s THEMES Plus Agenda, which prioritises “Entertainment and Tourism” as a critical sector for economic diversification and youth empowerment.

    “As part of its efforts to preserve Lagos’ rich cultural legacy, the government revived the historic Fanti Carnival in April 2025.

    “The event, which celebrates Afro-Brazilian heritage, was held at the Remembrance Arcade on Lagos Island and attracted thousands of local and international tourists.

    “The revival of the Fanti Carnival honours the legacy of Afro-Brazilians who returned to Lagos in the 19th century and showcases the enduring cultural fusion that defines our identity,” the commissioner said.

    Benson-Awoyinka said that the ministry also undertook the restoration of 30 heritage monuments, with 11 already completed.

    She said that efforts to rebuild critical cultural infrastructure are underway, including the reconstruction of the Lagos Theatre in Oregun, which was destroyed during the #EndSARS protests in 2020.

    “In November 2024, the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History was launched, drawing high-profile visitors such as Crowned Princess Victoria of Sweden and American cultural delegations.

    “Lagos is increasingly on the global map. From hosting BBC Studios executives to meeting with CNN’s Richard Quest and Global Tourism Head Zara Driss at the World Travel Market in London, our message is clear,” she said.

    She said the ministry had partnered with top-tier creative academies: Del-York Creative Academy, EbonyLife Creative Academy, and the African Film Academy, to train over 10,000 youths in film production, animation, screenwriting, and sound design.

    She added that Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board had also issued over 1,100 permits to filmmakers and actively engaged in digital content regulation conferences to uphold industry standards.

    Benson-Awoyinka said the 2024 Greater Lagos Fiesta featured major acts like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Tiwa Savage across five divisions.

    According to her, the Lagos Shopping Festival held at Onikan Stadium drew over 50,000 visitors and featured more than 400 vendors, demonstrating the economic synergy between tourism, culture, and commerce.

    She said that the ministry had continued to drive the growth of the creative economy, empower cultural entrepreneurs, promote heritage, and expand Lagos’s global footprint as a thriving tourism and cultural capital.

    “Lagos is not just a destination. It is a cultural awakening. The Fanti Carnival is an invitation to become part of a living history that dances, sings and celebrates resilience,” she said.

    According to her, Sanwo-Olu administration has shown unwavering commitment to cultural preservation, education, and the promotion of Lagos as a destination rich in history, heritage, and pride.

    She said that Sanwo-Olu was honoured with a Special Recognition Award at The Headies 2025 for his administration’s support for the creative industry.

    Benson-Awoyinka said that the ministry had been strengthening global ties and the state was honoured in San Francisco and where she bagged a Special Recognition Award for visionary leadership.

    “As Lagos expands its global footprint, such strategic engagements will continue to elevate the state’s profile, attract tourism investment, and showcase the ingenuity and vibrancy of its people to the world,” she said.

    She also listed as part of the ministry’s achievement the strategic partnership with BBC Studio to elevate Lagos Storytelling, the Greater Lagos Rising Tour, Promotion of Animations, the Badagry International Film Festival, among others.

    “I am personally committed to ensuring that Lagos is not only seen but also understood for the richness of its heritage and the brilliance of its people.

    “This partnership with the BBC is part of our larger vision to position Lagos as Africa’s storytelling capital, attracting both visitors and investors through the power of culture, media, and tourism.

    “With plans to expand the festival in coming years and make it a permanent fixture on the global retail tourism calendar, the Lagos Shopping Festival has truly set a new benchmark for city-led experiential retailing in Africa,” Benson-Awoyinka said.

    Earlier in his opening remarks, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, said that the ministry was dear to the heart of the governor.

    “We feel this ministry and wherever the ministry moves, Lagos moves. This ministry has revived culture and tourism to the benefit of Lagos, Nigeria and Black race,” Omotoso said.

  • Why I went to see Gov Sanwo-Olu – Jandor

    Why I went to see Gov Sanwo-Olu – Jandor

    The 2023  Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Gubernatorial Candidate for Lagos, Dr Olajide Adediran (a.k.a. Jandor), on Tuesday visited the state Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the Lagos House, Ikeja.

    Adediran met with the governor behind closed doors but spoke with journalists after the meeting.

    He congratulated the governor on his re-election and commended him for  warm reception.

    ”I have gone to my local government to do that. We had that on Friday. The next thing was to pay the number one citizen of the state an official visit to inform him  that we have returned to the party.

    ”I am back to be with my family. We will continue to consolidate on our collective strength. We all knew what happened during the last election. It was because the house was divided. Now, we are together and we are back,” he said.

    He described his reception by Sanwo-Olu as warm.

    “The reception was fantastic. Mr Governor is actually a gentleman. I commend your composure throughout the campaign. In a season marked by intense political tension, your calmness stood out, and, in my view, it played a significant role in your winning.”

    The gubernatorial candidate said that the visit was not just a political courtesy, but a demonstration of maturity and the need to foster unity beyond party lines.

    “Lagos deserves a political climate where leaders can engage constructively regardless of party affiliation.

    “I believe this gesture reflects the kind of politics we should be practising –  one that prioritises the development of our state above personal or partisan interests,” he said.

    Adediran was a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) before he left the party to join PDP.

    He is the Convener of  Lagos4Lagos Movement, a group within the APC that pushed for reforms and internal democracy.

  • Lagos Govt warns against assault on CBD officials

    Lagos Govt warns against assault on CBD officials

    The Lagos State Government has warned residents that anyone who assaults law enforcement officers, particularly those attached to the Central Business District (CBD), will face the full weight of the law.

    Mrs Bola Olumegbon-Lawal, the Special Adviser to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on CBD, said this at the Ministerial Press Briefing held at Alausa, Ikeja, on Thursday.

    She disclosed that three individuals had already been prosecuted for attacking CBD officials while they were discharging their duties.

    “We will not tolerate any act of violence against our officers. Anyone found guilty of assaulting law enforcement personnel will be brought to justice.

    ”In as much as we train our officers regularly on how to relate professionally with members of the public, we frown at any action of violence,” she said.

    Olumegbon-Lawal said that both the Lagos Island and Ikeja CBDs had been reopened for business activities.

    She called on traders and stakeholders in the area to take responsibility for safeguarding public infrastructure.

    “We urge all stakeholders to protect government assets in their environment and to obey all traffic rules. These facilities belong to all of us and must not be left at the mercy of vandals.

    “We keep appealing to street vendors to desist from showcasing their wares on CBD lanes,” Olumegbon-Lawal said.

    The special adviser revealed that 926 vehicles and 33 tricycles were impounded in the last one year for a range of traffic offences including illegal parking, driving against traffic and obstruction.

    She also warned against street trading, stating that goods seized would not be returned. Olumegbon-Lawal said that the CBD was taking internal discipline seriously as well.

    “We have five CBD officers currently undergoing disciplinary action for gross misconduct, which should serve as a deterrent,” she said.

  • 8,000 Lagos State staff on study leave – Commissioner

    8,000 Lagos State staff on study leave – Commissioner

    The Lagos State Government on Wednesday said that no fewer than 8,000 public servants were granted study leaves in order to improve their productivity and efficiency.

    The Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Mr Afolabi Ayantayo, stated this at the Ministerial Press Briefing on the administration of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second years in second term.

    At the event held at the Baguda Kalto Press Centre Alausa Ikeja, he said 70 per cent of those on foreign training are back while the rest opted to stay abroad.

    “For those that are still receiving their salaries, we didn’t pay for their courses, but those who no longer receive salaries, we paid for their courses and it has added to productivity.

    “These public servants came from 56 ministries, departments and agencies, they were granted approval to go on study leave in the last three years to enhance their professional skills and competences,” he said.

    The commissioner said that a total of 23,420 were trained between May 2022 and December 2024, while over 158 training programmes including in-plant and in-service training were organised.

    ”These cut across multiple cadres, skill levels and thematic areas relevant to public sector efficiency, leadership development and regulatory compliance.

    ”It covers areas such as digital transformation, emotional intelligence, policy analysis and project management.

    ”The ministry processed 742 signs off training request for various ministry, department and agencies,” Ayantayo said.

    He said these trainings were part of the state government effort aimed at boosting capacity, adding that Lagos state has some of the best-performing staff members in the federation.

    “The quality of service delivery in sectors such as transportation demonstrates the competence of personnel, many of whom possess not only relevant qualifications but also considerable experience and knowledge gained through continuous development.”

    The commissioner said that in 2024, only 15 candidates failed the state’s promotion exercise.

    “A total of 5,342 officers participated in the 2024 civil service examination in Lagos State, with only 15 candidates failing. The outcome is highly encouraging and reflects the quality of the state’s workforce,” he said.

    Ayantayo revealed that the state has a considerable number of staff on its payroll totalling about 101,108.

    He said that agency staff, especially ad-hoc staff engaged through contractual agreements, are not paid allowances and salaries by the state government.

    “Instead, these are guided by the terms of their contracts with local councillors or specific agencies.

    ”Some of these staff members work part-time or on short-term assignments, and their remuneration reflects the nature of their engagement.

    “The issue of staffing within Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union was also addressed.

    ”Challenges persist with some members from government-owned broadcasting stations such as LTV, Traffic Radio, and Radio Lagos seeking inclusion in the Oracle payroll system.”

    He explained that many of these staff members were not employed by the state government, but by the broadcasting stations, adding that negotiations are on to resolve these matters.

  • You are just as vicious and evil – Mr Macaroni slams Sanwo-Olu, APC loyalists over attacks on Peter Obi

    You are just as vicious and evil – Mr Macaroni slams Sanwo-Olu, APC loyalists over attacks on Peter Obi

    Mr Macaroni, a Nigerian comedian cum  activist, has taken to social media blast to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and its supporters of hypocrisy and online bullying.

    This comes shortly after Governor Sanwo-Olu’s criticism of Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023 election, Peter Obi.

    It would be recalled that Sanwo-Olu in a statement on Sunday berated Peter Obi’s recent remarks at Johns Hopkins University, accusing him of “de-marketing” Nigeria on the international stage and lacking the moral authority to criticize President Bola Tinubu’s handling of the economy.

    According to Sanwo-Olu,  Obi’s eight-year tenure was marked by a rise in poverty, and a lack of significant infrastructure development, including schools and hospitals.

    “Mr Obi talks a good game. But was he able to reduce poverty while he governed Anambra? Under Peter Obi, the poverty rate in Anambra jumped to 53.7 per cent,” Sanwo-Olu said

    The governor further argued that while Obi allegedly failed to deliver measurable development, Tinubu had lifted “millions out of poverty” during his time as Lagos governor, citing initiatives like the construction of schools and the provision of student loans.

    In reaction to the Lagos State governor’s criticism, Obi’s supporters, popularly known as Obidients, flooded the social media space accusing Sanwo-Olu of playing the role of Tinubu’s “loyal apprentice” and digressing from the real issues Nigerians are facing.

    Macaroni, on the other hand took a direct swipe at APC loyalists who have consistently attacked him online since his outspoken role during the #EndSARS movement.

    “Finally, APC Trolls are just as vicious and evil as any other online mob!” Macaroni wrote.

    He also said, “They have insulted, attacked and cursed me since 2020 up till now! They are not saints! They are evil and wicked! They are the real headless mob with a unique talent of gaslighting and playing the victim.”

  • Obe Ess 1957-2025: Sanwo-Olu, Osadolor, others pour encomiums on departed veteran cartoonist

    Obe Ess 1957-2025: Sanwo-Olu, Osadolor, others pour encomiums on departed veteran cartoonist

    It was tributes galore on Tuesday as the news filtered in that tOlaseinde Obe, popularly known as Obe Ess has passed on.

    The seasoned Cartoonist who served The Guardian for over three decades was also a major contributor to TNG before his demise.

    Read tributes below:

    Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described the death of former cartoonist with The Guardian, Mr. Olaseinde Obe (fondly known by his signature, Obe Ess) as a great loss to the media industry.

    In a condolence message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, on Tuesday, the governor said that the exit of the renowned cartoonist was heartbreaking, considering his contribution to journalism.

    Sanwo-Olu said: ‘The death of Olaseinde Obe is a great loss to the media industry and he will be greatly missed. He made lots of positive impacts during his lifetime, contributing meaningfully to the growth and development of journalism in Nigeria, especially using cartoons as illustrations and medium of expression. His landmark achievements in the media industry are unprecedented.

    Kingsley Osadolor, a former colleague of the cartoonist had this to say:

    Obe Ess showed me a different side of his persona. That side of him was the open, funny, chatty, and engaging conversationalist, ready to exchange ideas, to learn, and to share knowledge. Once we were comfortable with each other, we discussed a whole range of issues, including family and more.

    The passcode to that persona was a common passion he and I shared, regarding premium vehicle maintenance. In the early 1990s, when the Nigerian middle class struggled to overcome the lashing effects of the Structural Adjustment Programme, Tokunboh cars were the recourse, rather than any mint ride driven out of the showroom. I bought a skyblue Nissan Laurel, and Obe Ess expressed admiration for the car. Later, he acquired his own car, royal blue in colour. Year after year, season after season, Obe Ess’s car was sparkling, often neatly parked on the premises at Rutam House. If Obe Ess revved up his engine, it was noiseless. Whenever I teased him whether he ever rode the car, his retort was that he was also wondering if I ever moved mine. Obe Ess and I would discuss and later purchase what we learnt were the best accessories in the market. I was a fan of Pirelli tyres. Obe Ess discovered a top quality battery at the time, and he immediately convinced me to buy one. I got the battery—TRANE—which I used for many years. We were passionate about timely servicing of our cars, as a guarantee to the extended longevity of the Tokunboh variety; any scratches on the bodywork we considered eyesores and got them rectified immediately. When I discovered that a certain trader (Sylvester) at Oshodi market sold genuine NGK plugs, I bought some packets. I informed Obe Ess, and he too went to the shop and made his purchases. Every round of servicing was with a new set of plugs.

    Some years ago, Obe Ess had a near-death experience, when armed robbers invaded his residence in Lagos. When he narrated the encounter to me later, it was with a mixture of mirth and drama and thanksgiving. He said after the gangsters broke into his apartment and made to roughen him up, he held one of them whose upraised deadly assault weapon suddenly discharged. A bullet from the gun hit the decking and ricocheted to pierce one of the robbers who collapsed and died. The other accomplices took to their heels. Obe Ess relocated from the neighborhood.

    Obe Ess was a master of his craft. He knew and respected the imperative of deadlines in the newspaper business. His cartoons were high art, the product of a thinking and inventive mind fully conscious of the quality audience that patronized the paper. Obe Ess was an enlightened and brilliant commentator on contemporary issues using the strokes of his pencil.

    The shock of learning of Obe Ess’s death has been immense. Still, I pray that the Almighty will grant him eternal rest, and comfort the larger Obe family on the transition of their glorious son.

    Kingsley Osadolor, Esq.

    Ifeanyi Mbanefo also had to say about his friend:

    As Senior Sub Editor for The Guardian on Sunday, I admired two journalists for their unconventional style – Ake Didi Onu and Obe Ess. I considered them subversive, dropping their cartoons late on Friday nights, living in their own world, and occupying a spartan office that resembled a war room.

    Initially, I didn’t warm up to Obe Ess, suspecting he deliberately submitted cartoons late to sneak them past editors.

    However, his dark humor grew on me – he would skewer the words and actions of the powerful with effortless ease, like a black belt judoka redirecting energy to neutralize attacks.
    His cartoons were always a slam dunk!
    Laughter is a response we have when there’s a difference between what happens and what is expected.
    Obe Ess’s craft contrasted the ridiculous with the normal, wasting no words.

    Twenty years after leaving The Guardian, I discovered a surprising connection between Obe Ess and another friend named TO (Taiwo Obe) – they were brothers! My poor Yoruba skills and rearrangement of their first and surnames had blinded me to this fact. One was Taiwo Obe; the other One Ess. I didn’t know they were brothers until Obe Ess told me. Taiwo didn’t confirm it; he laughed mischievously when I phoned to confirm.

    Obe Ess remained a lifelong friend, admired for:
    1. His masterful editorial cartoons revealing great injustices
    2. Sharp perspectives delivered through flawless artistry, biting prose, and crisp wit
    3. Beautiful, daring cartoons tackling issues affecting disenfranchised citizens and calling out political hypocrisy
    4. Making complex issues accessible to wider audiences through unique storytelling
    5. And for his humanity and honesty.

    I called him a “scientist” for dissecting government policies and rearranging them into comprehensible pieces. A First Principles thinker who breaks issues down to their basic most fundamental truths.
    His dark humor was therapy to our compatriots – engaging with tragic situations without succumbing to depression.

    When I wrote profiles excoriating the powerful under pseudonyms, Obe Ess praised my work – high praise indeed from someone who didn’t flatter easily. He graciously drew accompanying caricatures. I was indebted to him.

    My experience with Taiwo Obe & Obe Ess taught me that brilliance and greatness are not monochromatic — they manifest in many forms, but there presence are instantly recognizable.

    I miss my friend Obe Ess.
    May his soul rest in peace.

    — Ifeanyi Igwebike Mbanefo

  • Traffic gridlock: Why independence bridge was closed down – Gov Sanwo-Olu

    Traffic gridlock: Why independence bridge was closed down – Gov Sanwo-Olu

    Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has stated that the ongoing work on Independence Bridge aims to prevent road users from sinking into the water, as the bridge is already old.

    Sanwo-Olu while speaking with newsmen on Thursday morning, appealed to Lagosians over inconveniences experienced as a result of the closed bridge.

    According to the governor who visited the bridge to inspect the work currently on-going,  the closure of the bridge was regrettable but necessary to save the lives of its users.

    He further urged Lagosians to support the government’s effort to make the bridge safe for road users.

    His words: “First, I think what is appropriate is really to first tender apologies to all our citizens and to all Legosians for the very, very difficult, erroneous practices that we experienced in the last 24 hours in the city and within the island of Lagos. I think this apology is important so that we can take full responsibility at the government, both at the national and sub-national level, for just taking our people’s duty. And unfortunately, it was all well intended, it was all of good causes, it was all for us to address the future disaster that was waiting to happen.

    “But you know how likely there’s never the best time for you to be able to do all you want to do. There will always be challenges, even when you think that this is the best time to do these things. So what has happened here is that the builder has a contract. This contract has been signed over three years ago, which is to preserve the integrity of the Independence Bridge.

    Independence Bridge today is one of the oldest bridges in the country. And if we put it to date, I’m sure you’ve got to check it, it’s maybe almost 80, 90 years old, Independence Bridge, which connects, you know, Victoria Island from the Bonny camp into the Marina side of Lagos Island. And it’s been, it’s been the oldest, even in this entire corridor. But what has happened is this approach end, from Victoria Island going into Marina, has been under severe threat.

    So what the builder had done over the past couple of years, first, was to stabilize beneath, which we can’t see. They’ve done a whole lot of sheet piling underneath the bridge to protect and to hold the integrity, you know, this well. But the real job is that there’s like a 15 to 20 meters span on the bridge, which is sitting on nothing.

    “Over the years, erosion has gone underneath and it’s sitting on nothing. So that is indeed an imminent disaster that’s just waiting to happen. One day, God forbid, if the part of the bridge just collapsed, it will take you right into the water. So they’ve been on this conversation on what is the best time for us to move in and solve this problem once and for all.”

  • Lagos Governor mourns Okupe

    Lagos Governor mourns Okupe

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passing of Dr Doyin Okupe, a former Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo.

    Okupe also served as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan. He was a physician and co-founder of Royal Cross Medical Centre.

    Sanwo-Olu described Okupe’s death, at the age of 72, as a significant loss to Nigeria, particularly the people of Ogun. He extended his condolences to the family.

    In a statement on Friday, issued by his Special Adviser, Mr Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu praised Okupe’s contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape.

    Okupe was also the Director-General of Peter Obi’s 2023 Presidential Campaign. He was a former National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC).

    Known for his bold positions and unfiltered opinions, Okupe was an accomplished politician and strategist, contributing greatly to political and national issues.

    Sanwo-Olu expressed his grief, saying, “On behalf of my family, the people, and the government of Lagos, I mourn the loss of Dr Doyin Okupe.

    “He was an experienced politician and strategist with over three decades of active involvement in Nigerian politics.

    “He was involved during the Third Republic as the National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC).”

    Sanwo-Olu highlighted Okupe’s work as Special Assistant to President Obasanjo, Senior Special Assistant to President Jonathan, and Publicist for Senator Bukola Saraki and Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

    As Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, Sanwo-Olu also commiserated with Ogun Governor, Dapo Abiodun, over the loss of a political icon.

    Sanwo-Olu further acknowledged Okupe’s medical contributions. “As a doctor, he positively impacted many lives and worked in both public and private hospitals across Nigeria.”

    He added, “Okupe co-founded Royal Cross Medical Centre in Obalende, Lagos. His passing is a great loss to Nigeria, especially the political community.”

    The governor prayed, “May Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and give his family, friends, and associates the strength to bear this irreparable loss.”

  • Lagos begins road projects, urges resident cooperation

    Lagos begins road projects, urges resident cooperation

    The Lagos State Government has urged residents of Lagos Island to cooperate with urban regeneration agencies as they begin demolishing illegal structures to rehabilitate roads and start 15 projects.

    The appeal was made during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Friday.

    Mr Olufemi Daramola, Special Adviser to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Infrastructure, made this known at the meeting.

    Ten roads set for reconstruction include Idumagbo Avenue, Ojo Giwa, Oroyinyin, Moshalasi, Okoya, and Iga-Iduganran Streets, as well as the completion of Adeniji Adele Road.

    Daramola said the Sanwo-Olu administration remains committed to urban regeneration, road rehabilitation, and improving drainage systems in the area.

    “I have carefully listened to all stakeholders. Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration is responsive, and our THEMES Plus Agenda remains our guiding principle.

    “We will keep providing residents with the necessary infrastructure. Our royal fathers mentioned the need for a recreational centre. I have spoken to my counterpart, and we will look into it,” he said.

    He added that at least 15 road projects would be carried out in collaboration with the Office of Enterprise Geographic Information Service (E-GIS) and Urban Development.

    Mr Gbolahan Oki, General Manager of Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), announced that demolitions of illegal structures would begin soon.

    “I always give a one-week notice before demolitions begin. We are coming, so please do what is necessary. Remove extensions to allow the right of way,” he said.

    Dr Olajide Babajide, Special Adviser on E-GIS and Urban Development, also urged residents to allow officers to carry out their duties without obstruction.

    “This meeting is crucial. We must continue to collaborate to provide essential infrastructure. Urban regeneration is necessary for creating a conducive environment,” he said.

    Mr Lateef Somide, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Infrastructure, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to inclusive governance through stakeholder engagement.

    “Lagos Island is a commercial hub, and flooding has been a major issue. These road projects will bring social benefits and reduce travel time,” he said.

    Similarly, Mr Mahmood Adegbite, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Drainage Services, urged residents to support the government’s efforts to improve drainage and enhance the area’s aesthetics.

    “I urge residents to install septic tanks, dispose of waste properly, and avoid illegal construction as the government works on road and drainage reconstruction,” he said.

    The stakeholders’ meeting was attended by community leaders, residents, transport unions, and White Cap Chiefs.