The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday reiterated his determination to continuously review the dynamic demands of managing Central Business Districts in the State towards making the business environment as conducive as possible.
The Governor stated this through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tunji Bello, at the 2017 Stakeholders Forum of the Lagos Island Central Business District, themed: “Revitalization of Central Business Districts for Economic Growth”, held at the Onikan Youth Centre, Lagos.
He stated that this year’s interactive session will review the progress recorded in the implementation of resolutions made at last year’s edition, adding that the Government is currently implementing reforms that would deliver an effective intermodal transportation system through a public-private partnership.
In his words, “For the benefit of Lagosians, the present administration’s commitment to the provision of a robust water transportation system would serve as a major boost to the tourism sector of the economy, provide empowerment and job opportunities for many across the State”.
Ambode informed that the Government is also making appreciable progress on the blue line rail, which when completed, would ease movement into the Lagos Island Business District from Okokomaiko and Mile 2 axis.
While maintaining that the BRT system has proved to be a success, especially with the modernization and expansion of bus terminals across the metropolis, he noted that the State government has put in place a community inspired security infrastructure to synergize with the police and other security agencies with a view to ensuring significant reduction in crime rate across the city.
The Governor, therefore, urged all residents to support the neighbourhood Safety Corps with necessary information that will preempt crime as well as lead to the arrest and prosecution of criminals.
He said the Lagos Island Central Business District remains the heartbeat of the State and National economy with the presence of all major financial and non-financial organizations operating in Nigeria, including Conglomerate and Multinational Corporations.
He averred that the Lagos Island District also hosts small and medium scale entrepreneurs as well as the various markets resulting in major financial transactions that impact the lives of all residents, stakeholders and the ordinary man on the street.
“I must express my appreciation to you all for the support you have given to our administration by cooperating with the management of the Office of the Central Business District in the implementation and enforcement of decisions jointly taken at the last interactive Stakeholders Forum in 2016”, he stated.
Speaking earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Central Business Districts, Mr. Agboola Dabiri gave an assurance that the present administration is keen on developing the Lagos Central Business District to an enviable level much better than its present state.
The occasion attracted members of the State Executive Council and stakeholders in the Central Business Districts.
