12th November, 2012
As Lagosians marked this year’s Community Day last Thursday, the Lagos State Government says it needs N1.1 billion to build 17 jetties in rural areas.
Commissioner for Rural Development, Cornelius Ojelabi disclosed during the celebration at the Police College, Ikeja, Lagos, southwest Nigeria, that there had been requests for government to build 17 rural jetties which have been estimated at a cost of N1.1 billion.
He stated that the needs for the communities were enormous but that the resources to meet them were unavailable.
“On rural roads, we received 334 requests estimated at N268 billion, 17 jetties at an estimated cost of N1.1 billion while we have requests for the provision of concrete foot bridges in our riverine areas to the tune of N288 million.
“In the area of potable water for our people, despite the state government’s huge investment through the Lagos State Water Corporation and our ministry, 112 communities are requesting for modified type ‘A’ water scheme at an estimated cost of N1.08 billion. We also request for public toilets in our rural areas at an estimated cost of N59.5 million,” he disclosed.
The commissioner said the celebration was another commitment of the state government in its efforts to uplift the grassroots people.
He said the occasion was to celebrate, encourage and appreciate community associations for partnering with the government through self-help projects to improve their communities.
The high point of the celebration was the presentation of 11 new Hilux Patrol vehicles to members of the Neighbourhood Watch by Governor Babatunde Fashola while prizes were presented to the best three Community Development Associations, CDAs.
The first position went to Ladegboye CDA in Ikorodu Local Government Area with a cash prize of N2.5 million while the second prize was won by Graceland CDA from Olorunda Local Council Development Area, LCDA, which got a transformer while the third prize went to Mabel CDA from Ikotun/Igando CDA, winning a cash prize of N1.5 million.
Those present at ceremony include the Deputy Governor, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, members of the State Executive Council, including the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Mr Babatunde Hunpe, traditional rulers including the Akran of Badagry, Aholu Menu Toyi I of Badagry and several members of the CDA and Community Development Council, CDC, who turned out en masse in their colourful uniforms.