The Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, on Saturday restated the determination of his administration to develop the great potentials of the Lagos waterways, just as the celebration of Lagos at 50 continued with a colourful Boat Regatta.
Speaking at Oyinkan Abayomi Drive Waterfront, venue of the event, which held simultaneously in three other locations in Epe, Badagry and Ikorodu, through the Secretary to the State Government, Tunji Bello, Ambode added that he would also create a platform for the private sector to harness the opportunities that abound in the waterways.
He said: “Our administration has invested massively in the provision of facilities and infrastructures on our waterways.
“The issue of security, especially on our waters, is very important to us and resources have been deployed to ensure safety and security of the waterways as we well as the channelisation of the waterways.”
Ambode added that the celebration of Lagos at 50 will not be complete without showcasing the state’s culture and tradition, which is derived from the adaptation of its natural environment – the lagoons and creeks.
He said: “We are committed to the preservation and advancement of our water-based cultural heritage. Our state is blessed with great aquatic environment. Twenty-two per cent of the total geographical area of Lagos is made up of lagoons and creeks.
“These water bodies have become part of our culture and heritage and have influenced our culture, our trade and our lifestyle.”
The event featured a traditional Boat Reggata parade and display competition by 15 qualified boats and floats, at the end of which five finalists emerged.
It also featured search and rescue demonstration and manouvering by agencies like the Marine Police, NIMASA, LASWA and LASEMA and very culturally rich traditional performances.
Prominent dignitaries like the Commissioner for Employment and Wealth Creation, Babatunde Durosinmi-Etti; Acting Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Adebimpe Akinsola; former Finance Commissioner, Wale Edun; and Sole Administrators of many Local Government Councils and Local Council Development Areas graced the event.
Trending
- Flights diverted as fire breaks out at Lagos International Airport
- 118 inmates escape as Suleja custodial centre fence collapses
- How FRSC reduced Road Traffic Crashes by 42% – Corps Marshal
- FCCPC uncovers prices in Yen as it grills Chinese supermarket owners + Photos
- Reporters detained for airing music, taking calls from girls
- German police arrest 11 Nigerians laundering money made from dating scam
- Fernandes digs Man U out of hole in win over Sheff United
- Akintoye to Afenifere: Yoruba wants self-determination, not restructuring