Ayodele Olalere
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on all Community Associations to promote peace and unity within their communities, emphasizing the importance of working together for the progress of the state.
The governor spoke at the 2024 Community Day celebration, held on Thursday at the Police College in Ikeja and organized by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development with the theme “Stronger Together: Building a Resilient Community.”
Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted that the annual event has become a key platform for recognizing the invaluable contributions of community development bodies across Lagos.
He stressed the need for peaceful co-existence, particularly in light of global challenges, and urged Lagosians to remain united, regardless of their religious, cultural, or social backgrounds.
“As we celebrate today, I urge all Lagosians, represented by the over 5,000 Community Development Associations here, to continue supporting our shared vision for a peaceful and prosperous Lagos.
“Let us stay vigilant and united against any actions that may jeopardize our investments, infrastructure, or heritage. The consequences of destabilization would be devastating for all of us”, the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of the people and ensuring their voices are heard.
He emphasized that the theme of the event aligned with the Lagos resilience strategy, which seeks to create a stronger, more adaptable city capable of overcoming both local and global challenges.
The governor outlined several initiatives his administration has undertaken over the past five years to help Lagosians adapt to economic and social pressures.
These include the EKO CARES programme, designed to cushion the impact of economic reforms, a 25% reduction in BRT transportation fares, a 35% wage increase for civil servants, and other targeted interventions to support the people.
In his welcome address, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekini, praised the vital role of Community Development Associations (CDAs) as key stakeholders in the socio-economic development of Lagos.
He highlighted the administration’s investments in critical infrastructure projects, including rural roads, electrification,
Brand new buses were presented to the best four community associations while some received N500,000 cash reward.