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AMBODE CELEBRATES DEMOCRACY DAY WITH SPECIAL RAMADAN TAFSIR IN EPE
…Vows To Continue To Make Lagos A Better Place For The Citizens
Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday evening celebrated Democracy Day with Muslim faithful, saying despite all that had been achieved in the past, Lagos was still a work in progress, and that conscious efforts would continue to be made to further invest in infrastructural development to make life easier for the citizens.
Governor Ambode, who spoke at a special Ramadan Tafsir and prayer held in Epe to commemorate the three years of his administration and Democracy Day, justified the massive infrastructural renewal across the length and breadth of the State, explaining that the huge investment in upgrading and providing amenities for the people was part of the greater vision towards making Lagos a smart city.
He said deliberate efforts have been made since assuming office to place the State on sound pedestal for growth and development, and as well align the State with other smart cities across the world.
“Lagosians have seen what we have done in the last three years but like we have said, there is a greater vision to make Lagos a Smart City. So, Lagos is a work in progress and that is why you see a whole lot of infrastructure project going on.
“Every day is a race towards making Lagos a better place for the citizens and that is what we would continue to do in the next 365 days,” the Governor said.
He said the special prayer, which was attended by both political and Islamic leaders from all the five divisions of the State, was organised to appreciate God for His goodness to the State and the feats attained by his administration so far.
“Exactly three years ago today, by God’s grace we took oath of office at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) and today is also Democracy day. In celebrating today, I decided that the best way is to come together with my Muslim brothers and sisters and share word of prayers with them through this special Tafsir to appreciate God for the success of the journey so far.
“You would recall that we had a Church Service on Sunday and I just think the best way to end it is to get prayers from Muslim clerics also, and that is what the unity we are preaching is all about. There is nothing bigger than prayer and that is why I am so happy that we started this journey with prayer and we are celebrating three years with prayer.
“For me, there is nothing more to say than to give thanks. I thank God and I also appreciate you all that our prayers have been answered. What we have done and still doing in Epe, Badagry, Ikorodu, Ikeja and every other part of the State will continue and we pray that God will give us the grace to do more for the people,” Governor Ambode said.
In his remarks, Chief Imam of Lagos, Alhaji Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nollah represented by Sheikh Tijani Gbajabiamila commended Governor Ambode for the transformation and development witnessed in the State in the last three years, saying one good turn surely deserves another.
“We appreciate our Governor who has been doing well in the last three years for the State and we pray that the second term will be a success. There is a saying that one good turn deserves another and we pray that that is how it will be,” he said.
Also, Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Dr. Abdulhakeem Abdullateef, said the entire Muslim Community in Lagos was at the prayer to rejoice with the Governor on his third anniversary and also to celebrate Democracy Day.
“Today is a day of commemorating good governance, rule of law, constitutional democracy, happiness for the people and the enhancement of their living condition. So, the entire Muslim Community in Lagos are here and that is what the Chief Imam of Lagos just said that they have come to even endorse the Governor entirely for second term and also to give thanks to almighty Allah who has given the Governor the ability and the capability to deliver on his electoral promises,” Abdullateef said.
There were prayers for the State, the first family and the people from Islamic clerics including Dr Saheed Timeyin of Lagos State University (LASU); Chief Imam of Ikorodu, Sheik Serifudeen Oloworibi; Chief Imam of Epe Division, Sheikh Kolawole Sanni Ligali; Chief Imam of Ikeja Division, Sheikh Tijani Olayiwola Balogun; Sheikh Abdulbariu Shaba from Lagos Island; and Sheikh Thaoban Adam Abdulah, Founder of Markazul Uloom, Agege, among others.
The Lagos State Government, in its continued effort to promote cultural heritage and deepen tourism footprints, has concluded plans to host the Lagos Cultural Weekend.
A three-day cultural extravaganza, scheduled to take place across multiple strategic locations, including the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Freedom Park, National Theatre, Badagry Heritage Museum, Lekki Arts and Crafts Market, and Tafawa Balewa Square, from November 14th to November 16th, 2025.
This weekend-long celebration will spotlight the richness of Nigeria’s traditions through curated events that blend history, culture, and local artistry.
Speaking on the initiative, Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, noted that the event is a key part of a broader framework of the Lagos Cultural Mission.
“We aim to use the Lagos Cultural Weekend as a true reflection of Lagos culture, a herescope for tourists and visitors from across the globe to witness just how rich our culture is.
“The three days will be a cultural baptism, a deep, meaningful introduction to who we are. As a government, we now understand prioritising cultural representation as a driver for economic growth.
”On the initiative’s impact, the Special Adviser explained that it goes beyond showcasing culture, but investing in cultural artisans, talented enthusiasts, and key stakeholders to foster real engagement and growth.“Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration values collaboration and inclusiveness, which is why we want to work closely with Lagosians who truly understand our culture to help us achieve these goals.
“From the historians, to creatives, curators, artisans, culinary experts, performers, fashion designers, community leaders, and traditional institutions, we need them to join us in making a lasting impact.“So that, in the end, our guests and friends from many nations will carry home an authentic story of Lagos and enriched cultural literacy,” Mr. Aregbe said.
Attendees will enjoy array of activities, including live music performances, DIY sessions, contemporary art exhibitions, traditional dance showcases, fashion shows, culinary tastings, and craft demonstrations.
Also lined up are symposiums and cultural lectures designed for tourists and enthusiasts who wish to dive deeper into the Lagos cultural identity.
The weekend will be animated by diverse local performance groups representing the rich ethnic landscape of Lagos, with a special emphasis on language, literature, and indigenous storytelling.
Lagos Cultural Weekend 2025 reaffirms the state’s commitment to building a thriving creative economy while celebrating the depth of Nigerian traditions.
Through strategic partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and community engagement, this initiative will set a new benchmark for inclusive cultural programming in Lagos and Africa at large.
Lagos Cultural Mission….Preserving Our Heritage, Advancing The Future
Aare Adetola Emmanuel King Congratulates Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on Election Victory
The Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuel King KOF, has congratulated Hon. Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji on her resounding victory in the just-concluded by-election for the Remo Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.
In a goodwill message issued by him, he described the victory as “a historic moment for the Remo people, coming at a time when the constituency yearns for a leader with vision, courage, and genuine commitment to service.”
He noted that the outcome of the election was an attestation to the trust and confidence reposed in Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji by the people, adding that her sterling qualities, integrity, accessibility, and compassion for the grassroots had endeared her to the electorate.
“The overwhelming support you garnered at the polls is proof that you are the right voice at the right time to carry the aspirations of Remo to the national stage,” he stated.
While acknowledging that the by-election followed the painful demise of the late Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga (Ijaya), Aare Adetola Emmanuel King said Hon. Ayoola-Elegbeji’s emergence symbolizes the continuity of purposeful representation. He expressed confidence that she would not only sustain the legacy of her predecessor but also surpass it with new energy, innovative ideas, and progressive leadership.
The Adron Group Chairman further prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and compassion for the Member-Elect as she assumes office, expressing confidence that her tenure will usher in meaningful development, economic empowerment, and greater opportunities for the people of Remo Federal Constituency.
Olowu Celebrates Former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, At 84
Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Hammed Oyelude Makama, CON, Tegbosun III, has congratulated former military president, Gen Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, rtd, who is 84 today.
Olowu, in a statement he signed, eulogised the former military ruler for his modest achievements while he was in power.
According to Olowu, ” IBB is an enigma. He has carved a niche for himself as a former military president. His tenure witnessed the completion of many monumental legacy projects that are still visible today. His Hill Top Mansion in Minna has become a Mecca of sorts for those who aspired to lead Nigeria.”
Olowu, who described Gen Babangida as being grossly misunderstood, said history would be kind to him.
He said, “The launch of Gen Babangida’s Autobiography: ‘A Journey In Service’, and the testimonies from the likes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, Abdusalam Rabiu, Oil Magnate, Arthur Eze, and many others, testified to his goodwill despite leaving public office three decades ago.
” On behalf of myself, my Oloris and Olowu-In-Council.
All members of the defunct IBB Vision 2003 and Vision 2007, I wish President Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, a happy birthday. I also wish him all the best as he aged gracefully,” Olowu added.
Born on August 17, 1941, Gen Ibrahim Babangida, rtd, ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993.
His presidency was marked by significant political and economic reforms.
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