Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to enforcing laws and regulations.
He admonished the people to respect rules because ‘they have been crafted to safeguard our lives and property’.
Sanwo-Olu spoke on Sunday, January 7, during the New Year thanksgiving held at the Tafawa Balewa Square.
The annual thanksgiving was organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs in conjunction with the first family, with the theme ‘The Righteous shall praise your name’s.
He told the people, ‘Nigeria will not fail’, but ‘we must live in an ordered society by obeying rules and pay taxes so we can implement the budget. We are responsible and will utilise finances prudently’, Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor said: “This year will be an important one for us in terms of enforcement of the various laws and regulations that have been meticulously crafted to safeguard our lives and property. Without adherence to the rule of law, no society can guarantee progress and prosperity.
“I, therefore, implore every one of us, as Lagosians, to play our part in respecting and obeying the laws of the land. From paying our taxes, to obeying traffic rules, to disposing of our waste responsibly, to speaking up when we see other people breaking the law. These are all responsibilities that we carry as good people of Lagos State.
“On our part, as government, we will continue to strive to make it easier for you to be law-abiding. Our transport reforms are all aimed at improving the commuting experience for Lagosians, just as our emergency hotlines are there to make it easy for you to ‘say something if you see something’.
We also have in place various reforms aimed at making it easier for you to pay your taxes, and generally making Lagos a more enabling place for business and investment. Together, we can all play our part in achieving a truly Greater Lagos.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu also promised to complete all ongoing projects because to make the people enjoy more dividends of democracy
He added: “The government is resolutely committed to fostering the robust growth of our state and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. We are dedicated to the successful implementation of pivotal projects.
“Last year witnessed the historic commencement of commercial operations for the first phase of the Blue Line of our Lagos Rail Mass Transit.
“Work is already in progress to ensure that the second phase, the extension of the rail line from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko, is completed in the life of this administration. Within the next few months, we will witness the formal launch and commencement of operations of the much-anticipated Red Line, from Oyingbo to Agbado
Furthermore, we are working very hard to finalise the project financing that will enable the construction of the Fourth Mainland Bridge, which will be one of the longest bridges in Africa, when completed.
“In every sector, we have major projects ongoing, that will define the legacy of our administration, and positively transform the economy and the landscape of Lagos State…”
The governor, in thanking God for the New Year, said: “We have every reason to give all the glory and thanks to the Almighty God because He has been faithful in the affairs of our dear state.
He has granted us great achievements and testimonies; he has given us peace and security; and mightily blessed the work of our hands. There is indeed so much to be grateful for. As we raise our voices in praise, adoration and supplication, let us also remember to continue to commit Lagos State and Nigeria to God, for his guidance, and his mercies…”
The thanksgiving we attended by Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, his wife Oluremi, former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and his wife Bolanle, traditional rulers, religious and political leaders, among others.
Commissioner for Home Affairs, Olanrewaju Layode, in his welcome address, urged the people to be ‘law abiding, do due diligence in carrying out our civic responsibilities and also continue to be our brothers’ keeper, while partnering with the government in making the state livable for all.
It is my prayer that this year will be way better and more fulfilling than last year. Please continue to commit Nigeria and Lagos State to God in prayers.”