The Lagos State Government has presented Land Allocation letters to 98 villages within Ito-Omu as well as other communities in Sangotedo and Ibeju-Lekki areas, with the Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu presenting the letters to each village leader during a ceremony held at Ito-Omu Link Bridge, Sangotedo Lagos.
The Land Allocation follows the acquisition of 16,300 hectres of land in Ito-Omu and surrounding communities by the New Towns Development Area (NTDA) under the State to maintain several developmental programs that cater to housing and other developmental activities.
Some of the benefitiaries include Oko-Keji, Okun-Abe, Orofun, Agadangba, Anwoye Oke, Anwoye Ebute, Ipesu, Oguntedo, Measan, Isan, Arapagilotu, Ibon, Lagada and Dingo, to mention a few.
The Governor assured that the growth of Ito-Omu and it’s surrounding communities is planned, purposeful and people-centered. He added that the initiative is designed to build dignified communities, which ensure thriving businesses for future generations.
“The future of Lagos cannot be built on unplanned expansion. It must be built on deliberate planning, appropriate infrastructure, secure communities and opportunities for our people to order”.
“This is why the development plan for Ito-Omu and adjoining communities is so important. It provides a framework for guiding growth in a rapidly developing part of Lagos ensuring that residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and recreational land uses are properly integrated so that infrastructure can be efficiently provided, investments can florish, and residents can enjoy a better quality of life.” He said.
The Governor then addressed his dedication to ensuring that planning brings about huge milestones in development while preserving the communities’ identities. He urged the communities to continue working with the government.
He also commended the commitment of the stakeholders involved in the project, which include the Lands Bureau, the New Towns Development Authority, the Office of the State Surveyor- General, the consulting firms.
The Permanent Secretary, Lands Bureau, Mr Kamar Olowosago who spoke earlier appreciated the villagers for their sacrifice.
Meanwhile, Onibeju of Ibeju-Lekki, Oba Razak Olasunkanmi appealed to the state government to ensure the availability of both residential and commercial buildings to strengthen connectivity among villages. He advocated for the establishment of a Technical College in Ibeju-Lekki axis for their wards.