LAGOS MINISTRY OF INFORMATION HOSTS JOINT CITIZENS/MEDIA ENGAGEMENT FORUM…. PARTNERS WITH OGUN STATE TO BOOST WATER SUPPLY TO LAGOS , PAYS #600m UPFRONT….. TO COMMISSION NEW GENERAL HOSPITAL IN OJO LGA
…. PARTNERS WITH OGUN STATE TO BOOST WATER SUPPLY TO LAGOS, PAYS #600m UPFRONT
….. TO COMMISSION NEW GENERAL HOSPITAL IN OJO LGA
BY ADERONKE FAKEYE .
The Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy organized a one-day Joint Citizens/Media Engagement Forum to address the challenges faced by residents of Lagos and seek solutions in collaboration with media representatives and the public.
The event which held on January 24, at Alausa, Ikeja, is aimed to provide a platform for open dialogue and proactive problem-solving.
The Honourable Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, addressed several critical issues, starting with the challenge of ensuring adequate water supply to Lagos citizens. He announced that the Lagos State Government has signed an agreement with the Ogun State Government to supply 70 million gallons of water per day to Lagos, with a payment of ₦600 million already made. This partnership aims to alleviate water shortages and improve access to clean water.
In the health sector, Mr. Omotosho highlighted the upcoming commissioning of a new general hospital in Ojo Local Government Area, which will add to the existing healthcare infrastructure. Additionally, a 500-bed health center is being built at Ikosi Ejirin, and the ongoing construction of Mercy Hospital promises to be one of the best facilities in Sub-Saharan Africa, equipped to support safe deliveries for pregnant women.
The transportation sector also saw significant improvements, as Mr. Omotosho detailed the government’s commitment to enhancing all three modes of transportation: water, rail, and road. He mentioned the recent launch of the Red Line and the forthcoming addition of ten new ferries, bringing the total to twenty-five. Sixteen new jetties are ready for commissioning in areas such as Ibeshe, Ilashe, and Liverpool, further boosting water transport infrastructure.
Moreover, plans for a new international airport in Lekki were discussed, with all necessary preparations in place and agreements signed to reduce the pressure on Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Ikeja.
Addressing street lighting, Mr. Omotosho explained that the state has shifted from using costly generators to solar energy, with 2,000 solar lights already installed, resulting in significant cost savings.
The forum was attended by directors from the Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, media personnel from various outlets, and news editors, all contributing to a fruitful and engaging discussion on the way forward for Lagos State.
This event underscores the Lagos State Government’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement in addressing the needs and challenges of its citizens.
