SANWO-OLU RALLIES CDAS, DEEPENS COMMUNITY RESILIENCE ACROSS LAGOS

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has stated that his administration will continue to invest in initiatives that make Lagos communities safer, more accessible, and better equipped for sustainable development.

Sanwo-Olu said this today at the Year 2025 Annual Community Day Celebration, with the theme “From Strength to Impact: Deepening Community Resilience,” held at the Police College Parade Ground, Ikeja. He noted that his administration’s core focus is ensuring no community is left behind in the pursuit of a Greater Lagos

According to him, “We have continued to invest in initiatives that make our communities safer, more accessible, and better equipped for sustainable development. Our goal remains clear: to ensure that every resident and stakeholder thrives within a society that is economically viable, structurally supportive, and fully positioned to enhance the ease of doing business across the State.”

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, reassured his government’s unwavering commitment to deepen collaboration with Community Development Associations (CDAs), empower communities, and sustain initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

He added that Lagos remained intentional in sustaining the partnership tradition between the CDAs and the government, stressing that the state recognizes the CDAs as dependable partners in progress, whose numerous self-help projects, community-driven initiatives, and unwavering dedication have continued to illuminate the pathway towards a collective aspiration for a Greater Lagos.

The Governor, therefore, called on residents of every CDA to continue the exemplary work that has contributed immensely to making Lagos State a destination of choice for all, noting that the annual ‘Community Day’ programme served as a symbol of residents’ collective commitment to strengthening grassroots governance and increasing citizen participation in the development of the state.

His words: “It is for these reasons, and many more, that this Administration remains resolute in identifying with you, supporting, and recognising the invaluable efforts of our Community Development Associations (CDAs). You are the bridge between Government and the grassroots; the custodians of community harmony; and the champions of local development whose actions continue to strengthen our social and economic foundation.”

Speaking on the establishment of the Office of Rural Development to create; to coordinate, strengthen, and accelerate development at the grassroots, the Governor said since the inception of the Office, the government has recorded a remarkable increase in projects dedicated to uplifting and transforming the rural areas.

“From road rehabilitation and community electrification to water supply interventions, security improvements, and other essential infrastructure. These efforts stand as a testament to our unwavering commitment to building inclusive, resilient, and thriving communities across Lagos State. Our Administration remains determined to ensure that no community is left behind in the journey toward a Greater Lagos,” stated the Governor.

In his goodwill message, Chairman, Lagos State House Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Hon. Okanlawon Sanni, reaffirmed the State House of Assembly’s commitment to support policies that promote rural development, strengthen local government, and encourage citizens’ participation.

According to Sanni, “We are here today at the community day, this reflects our shared commitment to strengthening grassroots development and improving the quality of life in communities across Lagos State. It is a recognition of resilience, unity, and collective spirit that defines our local communities. It is also a moment to appreciate the contributions of our CDAs who continue to contribute to the growth and development of our dear state,” said Sanni.

Earlier in his welcome address, Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, noted that the celebration is to honour the spirit of unity, sacrifice, self-help, and resilience that continue to drive the consistent growth and development of communities across the State.

Dr. Agbaje added that the move is a stride toward creating lasting impact through collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility, adding that the current administration is deeply committed to and passionate about driving development in communities across Lagos State.

“The commitment of the Governor anchored on the THEMES Plus Agenda, continues to drive inclusive growth and sustainable development in our rural, semi-urban, and other communities across the State,” he said.