Sanwo-Olu rallies CDAs, unveils stronger push for community resilience

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening grassroots development, saying the state will continue to invest in initiatives that make communities safer, more connected and better positioned for long-term growth.

Speaking at the 2025 Annual Community Day Celebration held at the Police College Parade Ground, Ikeja, the governor said Lagos was determined to ensure that no community is left behind in the quest for a Greater Lagos.

The event, themed “From Strength to Impact: Deepening Community Resilience,” brought together community leaders, government officials and thousands of residents from across the state.

Represented by his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu said the government’s priority remains creating an environment where residents and businesses can thrive.

He noted that investments in security, infrastructure and social development were deliberate efforts to ensure every community benefits from the state’s economic growth.

“We have continued to invest in initiatives that make our communities safer, more accessible, and better equipped for sustainable development,” he said in paraphrased remarks.

“Our goal remains clear: to ensure every resident thrives within a society that is economically viable and structurally supportive, while enhancing the ease of doing business across Lagos State.”

Sanwo-Olu praised the role of Community Development Associations (CDAs), describing them as indispensable partners whose self-help projects and community-driven efforts have continued to complement government interventions.

He emphasised that the administration would continue to expand its collaboration with CDAs, noting that they remain “the bridge between government and the grassroots, custodians of community harmony, and champions of local development.”

The governor highlighted the establishment of the Office of Rural Development as a strategic move to strengthen community-focused planning.

Since its creation, he said, Lagos has seen significant improvements in road rehabilitation, electrification projects, water interventions, security upgrades and other essential infrastructure in rural and semi-urban areas.

“These efforts stand as a testament to our unwavering commitment to building inclusive, resilient, and thriving communities,” he said.

“Our administration remains determined to ensure no community is left behind in the journey toward a Greater Lagos.”

Chairman of the Lagos State House Committee on Local Government, Hon. Okanlawon Sanni, echoed the sentiment, reaffirming the Assembly’s readiness to support policies that promote rural development and strengthen participatory governance.

He described the Community Day celebration as a reminder of the unity, resilience and civic spirit that define Lagos communities.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, said the celebration was designed to honour the collective spirit of sacrifice and self-help that continues to drive grassroots progress.

He said the THEMES Plus Agenda has reinforced the administration’s commitment to inclusive development across all parts of the state.

The event featured cultural displays, awards for outstanding CDAs, and the showcasing of community projects, underscoring the state’s belief that sustainable development begins from the grassroots.