PeakNews Online
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on journalists in the state to increase coverage of government activities, emphasizing the need for greater public awareness of the administration’s efforts.
This appeal was made during a courtesy visit by the Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by its Chairman, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi.
Representing the governor, Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat highlighted various interventions aimed at improving the lives of Lagos residents. “The Lagos State Government has been making significant strides in various sectors, yet much of the public remains unaware. We need the media to amplify these efforts,” Hamzat said.
He noted several government initiatives, including the Ogbonge Women Initiative, distribution of free cows to abattoirs, and the provision of eggs at subsidized rates. Hamzat also mentioned the state’s capacity-building efforts, pointing out that the government’s 27 training facilities are consistently at full capacity.
The Deputy Governor extended gratitude to NUJ National President, Chief Chris Isiguzo, for appointing Governor Sanwo-Olu as the Grand Patron of the NUJ.
Commendation from NUJ
In his remarks, NUJ Lagos Chairman, Mr. Adeleye Ajayi, praised the Sanwo-Olu administration for its achievements over the past five years, particularly under the Themes Agenda and the subsequent Themes Plus Agenda. Ajayi outlined key accomplishments across various sectors, including:
Transportation: The commissioning of the Red and Blue rail lines and the construction of eight train stations, as well as the introduction of high-capacity ferries and new jetties.
Health: Over 1 million Lagos residents are now covered under the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme (Ilera-Eko).
Environment: Successful efforts to clear illegal occupants from black spots across the state.
Education: The establishment of nine new public schools and the recruitment of over 3,000 teachers to enhance the quality of education.
Technology & Innovation: Investments in technology, which have attracted trillions of naira, aimed at making Lagos a 21st-century economy.
Entertainment & Tourism: The groundbreaking ceremony for the Lagos Film City in Epe.
Security & Governance: Over 3,000 people with disabilities (PWDs) have been nominated for empowerment and skills acquisition programs.
Ajayi also highlighted the state’s humanitarian response, particularly the compensation of victims of the Docemo Fire Incident. He assured the governor of continued collaboration and support from the Lagos NUJ, proposing quarterly media engagements with the state government.
NUJ Requests Further Support
The NUJ Chairman urged the state government to address certain needs, including the provision of furniture and a generator for the NUJ secretariat, pilgrimage opportunities, and improved welfare for contract staff. Ajayi also requested that a housing scheme be considered for journalists in Lagos.
Top government officials present at the meeting included Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso; Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Segun Ogundeji; and Special Advisers to the Governor, Mr. Gboyega Akosile and Mr. Jubril Gawat. NUJ officials at the event included Mr. Philip Nwosu, Vice Chairman; Mr. Tunde Olalere, Secretary; and several other key members.
