society

LAGOS TO ENGAGE 10 MAJOR BAKERIES FOR MASS PRODUCTION OF COCONUT BREAD …Says Efforts Ongoing To Rev Up Coconut Value Chain

Published

6 years ago

September 3, 2018

The Lagos State Government at the weekend said it has begun talks with 10 major bakeries to ensure mass production of coconut bread, “Eko Bread” as a means to provide more market avenue for coconut utilisation.

State Government, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode disclosed this at the 7^th Coconut Heritage Festival tagged ‘AGUNKEFEST’, an event held in collaboration with the African Coconut Heritage Initiatives to commemorate the 2018 World Coconut Day at the Suntan Beach Front, Badagry.

Alluding to the fact that Nigeria is ranked 18 in the world as a coconut producing country with Lagos State contributing 70 per cent of the total production, the Governor said his administration would continue to create the enabling environment for investments in coconut production, commercialization and utilization in the State.

Represented by the Special Adviser on the Environment, Mr. Babatunde Hunpe, Governor Ambode said his administration places high premium on sustainable food production which is the impetus driving the various activities in the agricultural sector with a renewed commitment to support initiatives geared towards revamping and developing the coconut industry to global standard and recognition.

“Coconut tree has been identified as the most useful single tree in the world in terms of versatility, product utilisation and longevity. Therefore, taking coconut to another level with this type of programme is long overdue.

“A major step taken towards achieving this goal is the establishment of the Lagos State Coconut Development Authority (LASCODA) to uphold the State’s comparative advantage in coconut production,” he said.

He said that the Model Coconut Processing Centre in Mowo Badagry has been fully rehabilitated and available for training of prospective coconut processors, as well as provide services to existing processors at affordable cost.

“To expand the scope of coconut processing operations and further collaborate with the private sector, the state government has distributed coconut processing equipment to coconut processors in twelve local governments and local council development areas in the State as part of its empowerment programmes in the coconut value chain,” he said.

Other efforts by the State Government to create an enabling environment for coconut production, commercialization and utilization, according to the Governor include, the rehabilitation of the coconut belt, massive production of improved coconut seedlings; capacity building/empowerment of coconut value chain actors; production of coconut derivatives on demonstration basis; encouragement of proliferation of coconut cottage industries for value addition and technological advancement in the coconut value chain.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Arts and Culture, Mrs. Aramide Giwanson said that the objective of celebration was to draw global attention and beam searchlight on Badagry division of the State thereby showcasing its rich cultural and traditional values to attract both domestic and international tourists to the division and the State.

Giwanson said the focus of the State Government was to create the needed environment that is private sector driven hence, the beginning of the collaborative and partnership effort between the Lagos State Government and the private sector, African Coconut Heritage Initiatives towards the promotion and celebration of the coconut festival this year which is a noble cultural asset in Lagos State.

In addition, the Special Adviser said the Festival was part of the promotion of the enormous Tourism potentials of Lagos State to the world, which according to her had started to yield monumental dividends, adding that the hosting of the event would further boost and sustain it.

Highlights of the event include exhibitions, parades, command performances by various cultural groups and cooking competition, while awards were presented to winners as well as presentation of Tourism Governor of Nigeria to Governor Ambode by the organizers.

SIGNED

FOLA ADEYEMI

PERMANENT SECRETARY,

LAGOS STATE MINISTRY OF TOURISM, ARTS AND CULTURE

society

LASBCA Seals Over 10 Buildings in Victory Estate, Ejigbo for Code Violations

Published

3 hours ago

December 18, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Sanwo-olu Distances Self from #IgboMustGo" Protest

LASBCA Seals Over 10 Buildings in Victory Estate, Ejigbo for Code Violations

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has sealed more than 10 buildings at Victory Estate in the Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) for failing to comply with the State’s building codes and regulations.

The General Manager of LASBCA, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, revealed that most of the affected buildings lacked the necessary building plan approvals from the State Government, which is a direct violation of the law.

Oki explained that the agency had previously issued multiple contravention notices to the property owners and developers in an effort to encourage compliance, but these warnings were ignored, prompting the enforcement action.

He urged building owners and developers to take advantage of the Lagos State Government’s ongoing Amnesty Programme, facilitated by the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority (LASPPPA), to regularize their building documents before the program ends on December 31, 2024.

Reaffirming the government’s dedication to ensuring safety within the built environment, Oki stressed that enforcement of building codes is crucial to protecting lives and property. He warned that violators would face the full weight of the law, serving as a deterrent to others.

The State Government remains committed to maintaining order in the construction industry through rigorous monitoring, supervision, and enforcement of regulations.

society

Ex-Military Officer and Lagos Prophet, Apostle Ayoola Oladele, Restores Mentally Ill Man Through Divine Intervention

Published

3 hours ago

December 18, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Ex-Military Officer and Lagos Prophet, Apostle Ayoola Oladele, Restores Mentally Ill Man Through Divine Intervention

By Oluwaseun Fabiyi

A remarkable scene of divine intervention unfolded recently in Lagos, as Apostle Ayoola Oladele, a Lagos-based prophet and founder of Let Us Worship Ministries Healing and Salvation, restored the sanity of a mentally unstable man at Oshodi. This miraculous act, which has left many in awe, serves as a testament to the enduring presence of God’s supernatural power on earth.

The event occurred near the Tax Force Office on Alasia Bolade Street, opposite the Arena Military Market, where the mentally unstable man had become a familiar figure. According to Oluwaseun Fabiyi, publisher of BethNews Media, Prophet Ayoola, led by the Holy Spirit, was moved to lay hands on the man while passing through the area—a route he had frequented for years. With fervent prayers, the man reportedly regained his memory, stunning onlookers and sparking widespread praise.

Apostle Ayoola Oladele, a retired military officer and native of Eruku City, Kwara State, has become renowned for his powerful ministrations and dedication to prayer. His ministry, which attracts over 3,000 worshipers weekly, is headquartered in Lagos and has grown rapidly due to his impactful deliverance sessions and commitment to intercession for the Nigerian government.

The healing at Oshodi echoes the scriptural accounts of Jesus Christ’s miracles, reinforcing Prophet Ayoola’s authenticity as a vessel of God’s power. Many who witnessed the event described it as a divine encounter, reigniting faith in the miraculous works of God through His servants.

As a visionary leader, Apostle Ayoola Oladele continues to inspire countless believers with his unwavering faith, humility, and dedication to the spiritual and physical well-being of others.

society

Kemi Badenoch: Enough of the Knocks By Kehinde Adeleye

Published

11 hours ago

December 18, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Kemi Badenoch: Enough of the Knocks
By Kehinde Adeleye

Who will tell Mrs. Olukemi Olufunto Adegoke Badenoch that enough is enough? It’s time to drink water, drop the cup, and let bygones be bygones.

Kemi Badenoch, a British politician with Nigerian roots, has often found herself in the spotlight for her controversial comments about Nigeria, her country of origin.

Back in 2022, during her campaign to replace Boris Johnson as Conservative Party leader, Badenoch stirred emotions when she harshly criticized Nigeria. She claimed:

“I grew up in Nigeria and saw firsthand what happens when politicians are in it for themselves, using public funds as their private piggy banks. I witnessed socialism for millions—it’s poverty and broken dreams. I came to Britain to make my way in a country where hard work and honest endeavor can take you anywhere.”

Her statements drew backlash, particularly from Nigerians who felt she was unfairly painting the country in a negative light. Fast forward to today, as Leader of the Opposition and head of the Conservative Party, Badenoch’s recent remarks have reignited the controversy. Even Nigeria’s Vice President has criticized her for seemingly denigrating the West African nation.

No doubt, Nigeria faces its challenges—corruption, underdevelopment, and social struggles—but many argue that Badenoch’s tone has been overly critical and counterproductive. While it’s valid to acknowledge Nigeria’s flaws, it’s equally important to recognize the strides the country has made, however gradual they may be.

Adding fuel to the fire is Badenoch’s preference to identify as Yoruba rather than Nigerian, alongside her negative comments about Northern Nigeria and the Nigerian Police. Such remarks have left many wondering if she understands the importance of unity in diversity.

While her critique of corruption in Nigeria holds merit, it’s worth noting that no nation, including the United Kingdom where she resides, is without its own challenges. From accusations of British banks funding terrorism to issues of police brutality, even developed nations grapple with their flaws.

Badenoch’s anecdote about her brother’s shoes being stolen by the Nigerian Police, for instance, might reflect her personal experience, but it doesn’t justify painting the entire law enforcement system with one brush. As a public figure, she bears the responsibility of exercising caution in her statements.

Her decision to distance herself from her Nigerian identity by claiming to be Yoruba is disheartening to many. After all, the Yoruba people are an integral part of Nigeria. As the Yoruba saying goes, “Omo ale ni o ma fi owo osi juwe ile baba re” (Only a bastard uses the left hand to point at their father’s house).

Would it not be more fitting for Badenoch to identify simply as a British citizen, embracing her chosen nationality without disparaging her roots? Her apparent disdain for Nigeria, despite the privileges and education she received there, raises concerns about her perspective. It also casts doubt on her suitability for higher political offices, such as Prime Minister, where empathy and understanding are key qualities.

Interestingly, Badenoch’s recent criticisms stand in stark contrast to her 2020 campaign appeals, when she courted Nigerians in the UK for support. At that time, she spoke out against discriminatory stereotypes associated with Nigeria and seemed to advocate for a more balanced narrative.

So, what changed? Her sudden shift in rhetoric raises questions about her motivations and the sincerity of her earlier statements.

Kemi Badenoch, if someone has upset you, address them directly. Leave the general population out of it. Your knocks are enough. It’s time to rest, drink water, and drop the cup.

Kehinde Michael Adeleye is a Lagos-based journalist.