Politics

WE’LL RESTORE LOST GLORY OF LAGOS ISLAND- AMBODE …Performs Ground-Breaking Ceremony Of J.K Randle Centre For Yoruba Culture And History …Commissions Multi-Agency Safety Arena In Oshodi, New Model College In Ikorodu

Published

7 years ago

January 10, 2018

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday said his administration was making strategic efforts to transform Onikan-Marina axis to a world class tourism hub that would go a long way to restore the lost glory of Lagos Island.

The Governor, who spoke at the foundation laying ceremony of the J.K Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Onikan, Lagos, said the Centre was part of a grand plan by his administration to turn the Onikan axis into a critical tourist hub, not just in the country but in the continent.

He said the Centre, originally built in 1928, was one of the centres that provided avenues for recreation and entertainment, but that the State Government has embarked on projects to regenerate, redesign and reactivate special cultural and tourist infrastructure in the State and convert them to centres of recreation, tourism and entertainment.

“In recent times, the centre has become redundant serving uses other than those for which it was built before falling to great neglect and disrepair. As a result, the Lagos State Government decided to redevelop the Centre and we are here for the ground-breaking ceremony of the new J. K. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History. In the past, the Centre provided recreational services to the Lagos populace but the new J. K. Randle Centre will do a lot more,” the Governor said.

According to him, the new Centre, among other things, consists of an Exhibition Centre, a Library, a Multi-Purpose Hall, Learning Spaces, Restaurant and Lounges, while the Centre will also retain its swimming pool and sports facilities as well as a pavilion for stage performances.

Governor Ambode said aside the J.K Randle redevelopment, his administration has also embarked on the development of the Eko Park which will comprise of the Lagos Heritage Centre for Leadership at the former Presidential Lodge Marina, the Lagos History Center at the former State House Marina and a Lagos Museum as well as the erection of a 55-feet Eyo Statue at the Lagos History Centre.

Besides, the Governor listed the ongoing upgrading of the Onikan Stadium to a standard sports arena, regeneration of CMS Marina and Multi-Layer Car Parks around Onikan as other developments coming to the Onikan-Marina axis.

“All these will serve as a catalyst for the rest of the regeneration of Lagos Island, restoring it to its former glory, while reinforcing the position of Lagos State as one of the world’s most vibrant, cosmopolitan and exciting places to experience,” he said.

While noting that the State Government decided to retain the name J. K. Randle in recognition of the exploits of the late Lagos socialite, Governor Ambode thanked the present Board of Trustees comprising Chief Femi Majekodunmi, Mr. Femi Adeniyi-Williams and Bashorun J. K. Randle for their support and cooperation towards the redevelopment initiative.

He said the in course of the project, the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund would collaborate with Construction Kaiser to use the construction site as a training ground for over 200 Artisans and construction Entrepreneurs’ under the Lagos State Employability Support Project.

In his goodwill message, one of the members of the Board of Trustees of the Centre, Dr Femi Majekodunmi, thanked Governor Ambode for redevelopment of J.K. Randle Centre as envisioned by the late J.K Randle, who was a close friend of his father.

“There are two performing two Governors that I know that have made up of their pledge, you are one of them, the other, I’ll keep the other 35 guessing”, Majekodunmi said.

He recalled his time as a resident in Lagos Island and had his primary and secondary education within the area, saying that he would pass the Centre every morning on his way to school and back.

“Every day, I walk pass there and in the afternoon, I swim over there. We use to know how it was then till the time it was demolished.

“But after his death, his very good friends and committed Lagosians, which included my father, Dr M.A. Majekodunmi, Chief Alhaji I.S. Adewale and other trustees decided to immortalise this illustrious son of Lagos, J.K Randle. But with this what you have done, you have beat us to it,” Majekodunmi said.

Earlier, Governor Ambode while commissioning the Safety Arena in Bolade Oshodi, housing over 12 departments and agencies responsible for safety and emergency management in the State, said it would engender better synergy among them and a significant improvement in the response time to most safety and emergency issues.

“By providing ‘The Safety Arena’, we are not only institutionalizing inter-agency co-operation and collaboration but we are moving our emergency response mechanism to a new level with a more robust approach to emergency rescue through improved coordination and faster response time.

“Let me assure you that we are not only determined to institutionalize inter-agency collaboration but we are equally desirous of improving the inter-sectorial cooperation and synergy for Emergency Responders required for an effective Incident Management System,” the Governor said.

While charging management and staff to sustain the existing synergy among the various safety and emergency agencies, Governor Ambode urged them to desist from treating residents inhumanly, warning that professional misconduct would not be tolerated.

Meanwhile, speaking in Ikorodu where he commissioned the Lagos State Girls’ Junior Model College, Agunfoye, Igbogbo and newly constructed block of 20 classrooms with state-of-the-art facilities at Anglican Primary School, Isawo, Governor Ambode said the resolve of his administration was to make qualitative education available and accessible to every child of school age in the State.

The Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr Idiat Adebule, said the opportunity being provided for children at the foundational stage with massive investment in education in the State, was crucial to the development of the country and as well designed to mould them into better individuals.

Governor Ambode said it was gratifying that the huge investment in education by his administration was already yielding positive results as evidenced by the improved students’ performance in examinations, national/international competitions, as well as improved morals and confidence in public speaking.

Besides, the Governor said the unveiling of the new Model College was another statement of his intention to take the education sector to a higher level and expand opportunities for girl child education.

The new college, which increased the number of Model Colleges in the State to 31, is equipped with 9 ultra-modern classrooms, library, laboratory, computer room, toilets and conducive offices for teachers, among others.

Politics

2025: There’s Hope On The Horizon For Nigeria, Lagos – Sanwo-olu

Published

12 hours ago

December 28, 2024

Sahara Weekly

2025: There’s Hope On The Horizon For Nigeria, Lagos – Sanwo-Olu

By Ifeoma Ikem

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has spread a message of hope and optimism for Nigeria and Lagos as the world celebrates Christmas.

Speaking at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu assured citizens that 2025 holds promise for a better future.

The governor expressed gratitude to God for the country’s resilience despite its challenges. He commended residents for their faith in his administration, pledging to continue working towards a safe, secure, and prosperous Lagos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of living in peace and harmony, urging families and friends to support one another.

“As a government, we’ll continue to provide enabling environment for growth and advancement, especially infrastructure development.

“Nigeria will be better eventually just like our President assured us in his media chat, and everyone will smile,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Rt. Revd. Ifedola Senasu Okupevi appealed to the federal and state governments to alleviate the suffering of the masses.

He called for policy relaxation to bring peace and prosperity to the land.

According to Dr. Okupevi, the citizenry must jettison tribal sentiments and embrace unity, stressing that by so doing, “we will realize the country of our dreams.”

Politics

Prince Adesegun Rallies Support For Senator Adeola’s Gubernatorial Bid

Published

14 hours ago

December 28, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Prince Adesegun Rallies Support For Senator Adeola’s Gubernatorial Bid

…Donates 100 bags of rice , five million to ijebu North APC Leaders

In a remarkable demonstration of his commitment to the welfare of party members and the development of Ijebu North Local Government, Prince Fatai Adesegun convened a strategic meeting with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the local government area.

The meeting provided an opportunity for Prince Fatai to commend the APC leadership for their steadfastness and dedication to the party’s progress. He emphasized the importance of unity, grassroots mobilization, and proactive engagement to ensure the APC’s continued success in future elections.

As part of his goodwill gesture, the Ago Iwoye Prince donated 100 bags of rice and a sum of N5 million to support party members across Ijebu North. He further contributed N1 million toward the renovation of the APC Secretariat in the local government, underscoring his commitment to strengthening the party’s administrative structure.

In his remarks, Fatai Adesegun expressed his appreciation for the exemplary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun, and Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola YAYI. He commended Senator Adeola for his dedication to the welfare of the people and his visionary leadership.

Adesegun also used the occasion to rally support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola’s 2027 gubernatorial bid, describing it as the best path forward for Ogun State. He highlighted Senator Adeola’s wealth of experience and his relentless quest for massive development across the state.

“Senator Adeola has proven himself as a visionary leader with the experience and passion required to transform Ogun State. His gubernatorial ambition is a golden opportunity for us to secure a brighter future for our state,” Adesegun said.

The meeting witnessed the presence of notable APC leaders and stakeholders, including Hon. Mosun Oladipupo, the Ijebu North Local Government Chairman, who led the Local Government Secretary, other executives of the party, and all 11 Ward Chairmen. Chief Dele Mogaji, a two-time Vice Chairman of the Local Government, and Mrs. Bukky Onadeko, a frontline women leader in the Local Government, were also in attendance.

Party members expressed their gratitude to Adesegun for his generosity, foresight, and leadership, pledging their unwavering loyalty and commitment to the party’s vision and goals.

Adesegun’s actions and advocacy for a united front resonate as a call for collective responsibility, setting the stage for a prosperous future for Ijebu North and Ogun State under the APC banner.

Politics

“‘Our Lives Matter’: Nigerians Demand Justice After Brutal Attack in Johannesburg”

Published

1 day ago

December 28, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Nigerians in South Africa: Struggling for Justice Amid Violence and Xenophobia

In a revealing interview with Biodun Busari, Frank Onyewekelu, President of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa, sheds light on the challenges facing Nigerians in the country, from violent xenophobic attacks to systemic injustices. The recent killing of Julius Chukwunta, a Nigerian national, has reignited calls for diplomatic intervention and justice.

The Death of Julius Chukwunta

The tragic death of Julius Chukwunta unfolded in Midrand, Johannesburg, on December 7, 2024. According to Onyewekelu, Chukwunta was returning home with his South African partner, Miss Lumka, when an altercation occurred. After attempting to resolve a parking dispute with four individuals, Chukwunta was brutally attacked, sustaining fatal injuries.

“They inflicted heavy injuries on him by hitting a brick on his head, which led to a massive loss of blood,” Onyewekelu recounted. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Chukwunta succumbed to his injuries on December 10.

Legal Actions and Concerns Over Justice

Chukwunta’s partner reported the incident to the Midrand Police, leading to the arrest of the four suspects. However, Onyewekelu expressed disappointment in the judicial process after three of the suspects were granted bail for 10,000 rand each.

“The prosecutor had the right to oppose bail, especially when there is a risk of the suspects fleeing the country. Three of the attackers were Zimbabweans with South African residency, making them flight risks,” Onyewekelu explained.

The fourth suspect, yet to appoint a legal representative, is expected to apply for bail in the next hearing, scheduled for February 2025.

A Pattern of Violence and Neglect

Chukwunta’s death is not an isolated incident. Between November 2023 and December 2024, Onyewekelu reported 15 to 20 similar cases of Nigerians dying under questionable circumstances in South Africa.

“Many Nigerians have died in police custody or from brutal attacks, with little to no justice served,” he said. He cited incidents where Nigerians died during police raids or while in detention, often without explanations or follow-ups.

The Role of the Nigerian Government

Onyewekelu emphasized the need for stronger intervention from Nigerian authorities, urging the government to address these recurring issues diplomatically and publicly.

“We need more steps, such as media briefings, to make South Africans understand that Nigerian lives matter,” he stated. He also called for increased collaboration between the Nigerian consulate and South African authorities to ensure justice and prevent further incidents.

Debunking Stereotypes About Nigerians

Onyewekelu addressed the common misconception that Nigerians are taking jobs or resources from South Africans.

“Nigerians in South Africa are largely self-employed, running businesses and even employing South Africans,” he said. He also highlighted that accusations of Nigerians ‘stealing’ jobs are unfounded and often perpetuated by individuals unwilling to pursue legitimate work.

On relationships, he noted, “When love happens, it happens. Nigerian men are caring, and that’s why many South African women choose them.”

Efforts to Foster Safety and Awareness

The Nigerian Citizens Association organizes workshops, seminars, and town hall meetings to educate Nigerians on legal and cultural expectations in South Africa.

“We teach our people about the rule of law, documentation, and how to live legitimately. We want them to stay on the right side of the law,” Onyewekelu said.

The association also works closely with Nigerian cultural groups to disseminate information, ensuring unity and shared responsibility within the diaspora community.

A Plea for Justice and Peace

As the Nigerian community in South Africa continues to navigate a challenging environment, Onyewekelu’s message is clear: justice and fairness must prevail. He hopes for stronger diplomatic ties, increased awareness, and a commitment to protecting lives and fostering peace between Nigerians and South Africans.

“We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re asking for fairness and the right to live safely and thrive in a foreign land,” he concluded.