Urban regeneration: Sanwo-Olu to work out proper model to ensure strong confidence

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has assured that his administration will work out a proper model before embarking on urban regeneration of identified communities in Lagos to ensure strong confidence.

This assurance was given early Saturday morning when he visited some locations in Lagos Island.

The Governor, who was accompanied by the Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Sanni Eshinlokun and some members of the State Executive Council went around the Onala playing ground; the demolished Jankara market; Isale gangan regeneration site; Adeniji Adele; Ebute Elefun and some areas around Idumagbo designated for redevelopment.

Sanwo-Olu assured residents of the affected areas that his administration will ensure a complete renewal of the entire community, especially building of drainage channels, road upgrade and construction to ease vehicular movements of people and goods.

Recall that Governor Sanwo-Olu, during electioneering, spoke on the need for urban renewal especially in some communities in Lagos Island. The Governor also said sincerity is the major issue militating against urban redevelopment in the State.

He assured Lagosians that his administration will provide a stop gap for at least two to three years, adding that “you need to do what we call proper enumeration”

“Once you can enumerate properly and determine who the original owners of properties are, and you sit and have an agreement, then the regeneration will start.”

“I have said, the major thing is sincerity of purpose knowing fully well that you are not out to circumvent them or to short-change them.”

“Once that is put on the table very clearly and transparently, we will get a success of it.”

Speaking on the Governor’s visit, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Idris Salako said Lagos Island regeneration plan is an important focal point for urban renewal of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration, noting that it is the heart of Lagos; Isale Eko, which is a historical centre.

Salako said the Government has also considered its potentials for socio-economic and cultural revival, noting that the regeneration of Isale Eko will bring up its thriving arts and cultural vibes with local markets and commercial activities.

He said, “Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu in line with the THEMES agenda of making Lagos a 21st Century Economy will tap into this dynamism and turn the potential into real investment opportunities and growth, in order to reverse the decay, slums and lack of effective services through the revitalisation programme for Lagos Island.”

He stated further that as part of the regeneration programme, the Government will commence immediate re-planning of Jankara by preparing an action plan for the area.