OUTGOING Governor of LagosState, Babatunde
Fashwola, yesterday, handed over the administration of
the state to Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, as the 8th elected
governor of the state alongwith his deputy, Dr Oluranti
Adebule at a colourful and well attended inauguration
and swearing-in ceremony, held at TafawaBalewa
Square, TBS, Lagos Island.
The dignitaries at the ceremony were former governors
of the state; Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson, Alhaji Lateef
Jakande, Rear Admiral Nduisi Kanu while former deputy
governorsin attendance were; Mr. Femi Pedro and
Adebisi Sosan.
Also Senator GbengaAshafa, Senator Remi Tinubu and
Senator Solomon Adeola, Oba of Lagos Rilwanu Akiolu,
members of the Diplomatic Corps, Captainsof
Industries, state lawmakers, All Progressives Congress,
APC, stalwarts, members of trade associations,
students among otherswere in attendance.
Ambode, decked in white attire (Agabada) with a red
cap to match, was sworn in by the Chief Judge of
Lagos, Justice Funmilayo Atilade, at about 11.25am
Ambode:
Ambode’s deputy, Mrs. Oluranti Adebule, had been
sworn in at about 11.19am by Atilade.
The governor, after inspecting the guard of parade
mounted by members of the Nigeria Police Force, said,
“As we collectively face the challenge to make Lagos
abetter place to live in, we must recognize our strength
in diversity.
A common national identity where everybodycounts. I
shall run an open government of inclusion that will not
leave anyone behind.
No matter your age, s*x, tribe or any other Status, as
long as you reside in Lagos, we will make Lagos work
for you.
“I want to assure all of us that I will make your taxes
work for you.
You will surely get a transparent and incorru-ptible
government that will give you good value for your taxes
paid.
“We shall embark on continuous reforms in the public
service. I am determined to demonstrate that the
government belongs to the citizens.
You have put us here as servants to serve you and not
you servingus. Today we are committed to that creed.
Moving forward, the Civil Service will be strengthened
and made to respond to the needs of all citizens in the
same manner, quality services are rendered in the
private sector.
Creation of new ministry, offices
Highpoint of the inaugural speech which attracted
ovation from the crowd was the announcement by the
newly sworn in governor of the creation of a new
ministry and two offices.
According to Ambode “I want to assure the business
community and corporate Lagos that the ease of doing
businessin Lagos will be improved upon earnestly.
Lagos is open for greater business.
To this end, a new Office of Overseas Affairs and
Investment (LAGOS GLOBAL) shall be created under the
Governor’s Office.
“We want you to fly into Lagos, start your business,
find your way, live, work and enjoy in Lagos.
“As part of our reforms, a new Ministry of Wealth
Creation and Employment shall be established.
This would specifically address the promise I made
during the campaign on employment trust fund, labour
exchange and entrepreneurship. This goal, we shall
pursue vigorously.
“Allso, the Office of Civic Engagement shall be created
under the Deputy Governor’s Office to strengthen and
enhance our promise on government of inclusion.
Everyone must have a voice in my administration.”
Source: Vanguard
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