One year into Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term, Lagos continues to solidify its position as a national leader in economic development and infrastructural advancement.
Amidst challenging macroeconomic indices and other pressures affecting the country, Governor Sanwo-Olu has done a lot in Lagos to cushion the effects on residents.
Early on in this second term, he hit the ground running like never before, setting himself light years apart from other governors. Building upon the successful foundation laid by his THEMES agenda (Traffic Management & Transportation; Health & Environment; Education & Technology; Making Lagos a 21st Century Megacity; Entertainment & Tourism; Security & Governance), Sanwo-Olu’s revamped THEMES+ agenda promises an even brighter future for Africa’s most populous city.
The early signs are encouraging. Let’s look into some of the key wins from the first year under THEMES+.
Transportation Takes Center Stage: A City on the Move
Lagos’ notorious traffic congestion has long been a challenge. However, the expansion of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) is a game-changer. The completion of the Red Line will offer a high-speed, congestion-free alternative for commuters. Additionally, the Blue Line project is progressing steadily, daily ferrying passengers across the ever-busy city, this is promising further connectivity across the sprawling metropolis.
Major highways like Lekki-Epe and Lagos-Badagry Expressways, along with the various bridges constructed along the Red Line Rail Red are enhancing traffic flow. Investments in BRT infrastructure, with a focus on LagRide and better bus shelters, are improving public transportation in Lagos.
Education Empowers the Future: Investing in Lagosians
Education remains a cornerstone of the THEMES+ agenda. The EkoExcel initiative, a flagship program, is transforming public schools through improved learning environments, teacher training, and technology integration. This year, over 1000 classrooms were equipped with interactive whiteboards and tablets, fostering a more engaging learning experience for students.
The government has also placed renewed emphasis on vocational and technical education, with the launch of new trade centers and increased funding for existing ones. This empowers Lagosians with in-demand skills, bolstering the state’s workforce and boosting employability.
Healthcare for All: A Healthier Lagos
The focus on healthcare delivery is another highlight of the first year under THEMES+. The rollout of the “Ilera Eko” health insurance scheme has expanded access to affordable healthcare for vulnerable populations. Additionally, the construction and renovation of hospitals and primary healthcare centers across the state are improving healthcare accessibility for all residents.
Furthermore, the “Healthy Lagos Initiative” continues to promote preventative healthcare through community health talks, free screenings, and vaccination drives. This proactive approach lays the foundation for a healthier and more resilient Lagos.
A City Transformed: Environmental Stewardship
Environmental sustainability takes high priority under THEMES+. The “Green Agenda” focuses on waste management, sanitation, and environmental protection. Notably, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has implemented innovative initiatives to improve waste collection and recycling. Additionally, the “One Million Trees” campaign aims to combat climate change and beautify the city.
The ministry of Environment and water resources recently signed waste processing deals with global conglomerates to convert the mountain of waste in the state into usable materials or energy.
Lagos isn’t focusing solely on urban development; the THEMES+ agenda also acknowledges the importance of food security. A prime example is the food agro-hub in Idi-Oro, Mushin. This state-of-the-art facility aims to revolutionize food distribution by tackling post-harvest losses, inflation, and traffic congestion. By providing farmers with centralized storage and streamlined access to markets, the hub fosters a more efficient agricultural sector, ensuring a steady supply of fresh produce for Lagosians. This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to not only being a commercial powerhouse but also a leader in sustainable food security practices.
Security and Governance: Building a Safer Lagos
The safety and security of Lagosians remain paramount. Increased police presence, improved patrol mechanisms, and investments in technology-driven crime prevention strategies are creating a safer environment. Additionally, initiatives like Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) are fostering community policing and promoting a sense of security within neighbourhoods.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to progress is evident. While challenges remain, Lagos is definitely making significant strides.
The city’s infrastructural development surpasses that of many other states, reinforcing it as a major economic hub for Nigeria and the continent. Its focus on education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability lays the groundwork for a more prosperous and livable future for all Lagosians.
With a state already taking in 41 trillion naira in GDP, making it the 5th biggest economy in Africa, the only way to go is up. The road ahead may not be without its bumps, but with continued focus and innovation, Lagos State, under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, appears well on its way to solidifying its position as a true megacity, setting a standard for other Nigerian states to emulate.
