Lagos Deepens Data-Driven Governance to Fast-Track SDGs

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to evidence-based governance as part of efforts to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the State.

Speaking at the Annual Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja, the Special Adviser to the Governor on SDGs, Oreoluwa Finnih, said the State is strengthening coordination and accountability by integrating data systems across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

According to her, the initiative is aimed at ensuring that development policies and interventions are guided by reliable evidence and deliver measurable impact on residents’ lives.

“Data is the bedrock of sustainable development; it allows us to move from intuition to impact,” she said. “By strengthening inter-agency data frameworks, we are not only tracking progress but also deepening accountability to every resident of Lagos. Our focus is to use these insights to close gaps in inclusion and economic opportunity.”

Dr. Finnih noted that the State’s data-driven governance model is already producing results through Lagos’ leadership role in the Human Capital Development (HCD) 2.0 Core Working Group. She explained that the platform has supported the design and implementation of people-focused interventions in health, education, and social development.

She also highlighted the successful coordination of Lagos State’s second Voluntary Local Review (VLR), describing it as a major step in assessing progress on the SDGs at the local level while strengthening stakeholder participation and community engagement.

According to the Special Adviser, the review process has further positioned Lagos as a leading voice in the global conversation on localising the SDGs.

Other achievements highlighted during the briefing included the second edition of the Advocacy for Women’s Financial Inclusion programme targeted at underserved communities, improved policy alignment among MDAs to support the 2030 Agenda, and expanded awareness campaigns such as SDG Clubs in primary schools and social impact cinema initiatives aimed at promoting positive behavioural change among young people.

Dr. Finnih added that Lagos continues to maintain a strong presence in international sustainability engagements through participation in major global forums, including the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), as well as the Rabat, Khartoum, and Niamey Processes.

As the Office of Sustainable Development Goals marks its 10th anniversary, she said preparations are underway to strengthen institutional capacity through the 2025 Annual Strategic Retreat and other development-focused initiatives designed to address the evolving needs of the rapidly growing megacity.

She reiterated the State Government’s commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development.

“As we look to the future, our goal is to further strengthen our systems and accelerate progress through measurable action,” she said. “We remain committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey toward a resilient and prosperous Lagos.”

NO VACANCY IN KOSOFE: MASSIVE CROWD AS AGBOYI-KETU APC STRUCTURE RALLIES BEHIND HON. KAFILAT OGBARA”

The atmosphere at Tem Royal Event Centre, Alapere, came alive with excitement, solidarity and political unity as the Executive Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Hon. (Mrs.) Adetola Adunni Abubakar, hosted a historic “Meet Your Aspirants” stakeholders engagement where the entire political structure and stakeholders of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA publicly declared total support for the second term re-election bid of Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development and Member representing Kosofe Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives.

The event turned into a massive endorsement gathering as party faithful, APC leaders, ward executives from Wards A-G, councilors, women groups, youths, market leaders, religious bodies, community development associations (CDAs), artisan groups, professionals, royal fathers, elders, transport unions, political stakeholders and residents spoke in one voice in reaffirming their support for Hon. Kafilat Ogbara ahead of the APC primaries scheduled for May 15, 2026.

From the very moment Hon. Kafilat Ogbara arrived at the venue, the hall erupted in loud cheers, songs of praise and chants of “Mama Kosofe!”, “Yeye Sewa!”, and “No Vacancy in Kosofe!” as hundreds of party members and supporters rose to welcome her with visible joy and genuine affection.

The energy in the hall reflected the deep connection the lawmaker has built with the grassroots through her impactful representation, accessibility and people-centered leadership.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Hon. Adetola Adunni Abubakar, publicly reaffirmed her unwavering support for the second term ambition of Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, describing her as “a dependable voice of the people and a true ambassador of Kosofe Federal Constituency.”

According to Hon. Adetola:

“Hon. Kafilat Ogbara has represented Kosofe with passion, courage, intelligence and results. She has remained connected to the people and has continued to facilitate impactful programmes and interventions across our communities. As Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, we are united in our support for her second term because leadership with results deserves continuity.”

The endorsement was echoed by APC leaders across the LCDA, ward chairmen from Wards A to G, party executives, elders and community stakeholders who unanimously assured Hon. Ogbara of their total support and votes during the APC primaries and beyond.

Many speakers at the event praised the federal lawmaker for her legislative excellence, women empowerment programmes, youth development initiatives, educational support projects, healthcare interventions and her strong advocacy for social development at the National Assembly.

Stakeholders noted that under Hon. Ogbara’s representation, Kosofe Federal Constituency has witnessed quality democratic dividends and stronger federal presence.

During her emotional address, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara expressed deep appreciation to the people and leadership of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA for the overwhelming love, endorsement and confidence reposed in her.

Clearly moved by the massive show of support, she thanked the Executive Chairman, party leaders and residents for standing firmly with her political journey.

“I do not take this love for granted. The support and trust from the people of Agboyi-Ketu and the entire Kosofe Federal Constituency continue to inspire me to do more. Together, we have achieved a lot, but there is still more work to be done. By the grace of God, we will continue to build a stronger and more progressive Kosofe,” she stated.

The gathering ended with loud chants of solidarity, renewed commitment to the APC and strong declarations of support for the re-election of Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, further cementing what many political observers described as a powerful grassroots movement ahead of the APC primaries.

Indeed, the message from Agboyi-Ketu LCDA was clear and unmistakable Hon. Kafilat Ogbara remains the people’s choice.

YUSUF ADEBISI CONGRATULATES IBADAN SOUTHWEST AS MAKINDE PICKS BIBIIRE, SAYS SECURITY IN SAFE HANDS

The appointment of renowned security expert and seasoned grassroots politician, Mr. Abayomi Fagbenro popularly known as “Bibiire,” as Special Adviser on Security to the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has been described as a perfect decision capable of further strengthening the security framework of the state.

Honourable Yusuf Oladeni Adebisi, Deputy Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly, said the appointment of Bibiire is a clear case of putting a round peg in a round hole, considering his vast experience in security matters, grassroots mobilization, and community relations.

According to Hon. Adebisi, the people of Oyo State can now sleep with their “two eyes closed,” knowing fully well that a tested and trusted hand has been saddled with the responsibility of complementing the giant strides of Governor Makinde in the protection of lives and property across the state.

He noted that Abayomi Fagbenro’s wealth of experience, strategic thinking, and deep understanding of the security dynamics of Oyo State would undoubtedly bring more efficiency and proactive coordination into the state’s security architecture.

“Your appointment did not come as a surprise to many of us who understand your commitment, competence, and dedication to public service. This is indeed a well-deserved recognition of your years of sacrifice and service to humanity,” Hon. Adebisi stated.

On behalf of the Office of the Deputy Chief Whip, Oyo State House of Assembly, and the good people of Ibadan Southwest Constituency I, Hon. Yusuf Oladeni Adebisi congratulated Abayomi Fagbenro Bibiire on his new appointment and wished him a successful and impactful tenure in office.

He also appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for once again demonstrating visionary leadership through appointments that reflect competence, capacity, and dedication to the progress of Oyo State.

OPC New Era Declares End to Internal Crisis, Elders Reaffirm Support for Rasak Arogundade

The leadership of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC New Era) has declared that peace and unity have been fully restored within the organisation following recent internal misunderstandings.

This was made known during a press conference held at the organisation’s secretariat in Lagos, where leaders and stakeholders reassured members that all issues affecting the group had been amicably resolved.

Speaking on behalf of the leadership and concerned stakeholders, the Chairman of the Council of Elders, Comrade Atanda Monsure, said the Congress remains united and committed to its core objectives despite the recent disagreements.

According to him, misunderstandings are inevitable in every human organisation, whether within families, political parties, or large associations, stressing that differences in opinions and orientations often lead to occasional disputes.

He apologised to members for the tension and anxiety caused by the incident and commended the maturity displayed by leaders and members across all levels of the organisation during the period.

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We are here to assure all members that all is well within our organisation. The misunderstandings and related issues have been completely settled,” Monsure stated.

He explained that one of the issues that triggered the disagreement was the constitutional provision imposing tenure limits on leaders from the zonal level to the National Executive Council.

Monsure noted that experience had shown that the tenure limitation was not suitable for a revolutionary organisation like OPC New Era, adding that leadership in such organisations requires charisma, courage, commitment, and dedication rather than strict dependence on electoral processes.

He, however, clarified that members would not be denied the right to choose their leaders, noting that the organisation’s constitution already provides room for amendment and review in line with international best practices.

According to him, the constitutional review process has already commenced in order to remove grey areas capable of causing confusion or manipulation within the organisation.

“Change is constant in life, and as an organic organisation, the Oodua People’s Congress (New Era) cannot be excluded from necessary reforms,” he added.

The Council of Elders also called on members to continue supporting the President of the organisation, Alhaji Rasak Arogundade, while passing a unanimous vote of confidence in his leadership.

“We remain fully committed to the noble cause that binds us together as one family. We appreciate the sincerity, commitment, and love shared among members, which continue to strengthen our unity,” Monsure said.

He further appealed to aggrieved members to embrace peace and place the interest of the Congress above personal grievances.

“In the name of all major stakeholders, our ancestors, and the gods of our land, we passionately appeal to anyone with grievances to allow peace to reign for the progress of the Congress,” he stated.

Responding, the President of OPC New Era, Alhaji Rasak Arogundade, expressed appreciation to the Council of Elders for intervening in the crisis and for their continued support.

Arogundade assured members that he remained committed to doing more for the growth, unity, and progress of the organisation.

He also promised to continue providing effective leadership for the development of OPC New Era.

OPC New Era Declares End to Internal Crisis, Elders Reaffirm Support for Rasak Arogundade

The leadership of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC New Era) has declared that peace and unity have been fully restored within the organisation following recent internal misunderstandings.

This was made known during a press conference held at the organisation’s secretariat in Lagos, where leaders and stakeholders reassured members that all issues affecting the group had been amicably resolved.

Speaking on behalf of the leadership and concerned stakeholders, the Chairman of the Council of Elders, Comrade Atanda Monsuru, said the Congress remains united and committed to its core objectives despite the recent disagreements.

According to him, misunderstandings are inevitable in every human organisation, whether within families, political parties, or large associations, stressing that differences in opinions and orientations often lead to occasional disputes.

He apologised to members for the tension and anxiety caused by the incident and commended the maturity displayed by leaders and members across all levels of the organisation during the period.

“We are here to assure all members that all is well within our organisation. The misunderstandings and related issues have been completely settled,” Monsuru stated.

He explained that one of the issues that triggered the disagreement was the constitutional provision imposing tenure limits on leaders from the zonal level to the National Executive Council.

Monsuru noted that experience had shown that the tenure limitation was not suitable for a revolutionary organisation like OPC New Era, adding that leadership in such organisations requires charisma, courage, commitment, and dedication rather than strict dependence on electoral processes.

He, however, clarified that members would not be denied the right to choose their leaders, noting that the organisation’s constitution already provides room for amendment and review in line with international best practices.

According to him, the constitutional review process has already commenced in order to remove grey areas capable of causing confusion or manipulation within the organisation.

“Change is constant in life, and as an organic organisation, the Oodua People’s Congress (New Era) cannot be excluded from necessary reforms,” he added.

The Council of Elders also called on members to continue supporting the President of the organisation, Alhaji Rasak Arogundade, while passing a unanimous vote of confidence in his leadership.

“We remain fully committed to the noble cause that binds us together as one family. We appreciate the sincerity, commitment, and love shared among members, which continue to strengthen our unity,” Monsure said.

He further appealed to aggrieved members to embrace peace and place the interest of the Congress above personal grievances.

“In the name of all major stakeholders, our ancestors, and the gods of our land, we passionately appeal to anyone with grievances to allow peace to reign for the progress of the Congress,” he stated.

Responding, the President of OPC New Era, Alhaji Rasak Arogundade, expressed appreciation to the Council of Elders for intervening in the crisis and for their continued support.

Arogundade assured members that he remained committed to doing more for the growth, unity, and progress of the organisation.

He also promised to continue providing effective leadership for the development of OPC New Era.

Adebisi Prioritises Community Development Over Political Rantings and Shanties

The Deputy Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman, House Committee on Youth and Sports, Honourable Yusuf Oladeni Adebisi, has continued to demonstrate that governance is beyond political rantings and endless pep talks, but about delivering meaningful development to the people.

Ongoing Secondary construction for 1st secondary in Ib. Constituency 1

While the primary constitutional responsibility of a lawmaker is to make laws, Adebisi has carved a distinct path for himself through massive community-based projects aimed at improving the living standard of residents in Ibadan Southwest Constituency I.

With the support and assistance of the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, the lawmaker has embarked on several developmental projects that have transformed many communities within the constituency.

Through the immeasurable grace from His Excellency, Engr Seyi Makinde , One of the landmark projects is the conversion of Seventh Day Adventist Primary School into a combined primary and secondary school through extensive renovation and expansion. The project includes perimeter fencing and construction of six blocks of classrooms, out of which three have already been completed while the remaining three are currently under construction, alongside additional classroom facilities.

In the health sector, Honourable Adebisi also facilitated the renovation of the once moribund Foko Primary Health Centre into a standard healthcare facility through the intervention and support of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration. To further support maternal healthcare, birthing kits were distributed to pregnant women and expectant mothers across the constituency.

Security infrastructure has equally received priority attention. The lawmaker personally funded the construction of a newly built ultra-modern police station equipped with modern facilities to strengthen security and curb criminal activities within the constituency.

Beyond infrastructure, Adebisi has consistently empowered residents economically. Several artisans have benefited from distribution of working tools, equipment, and cash support to enable them establish businesses and become self-reliant.

In a bid to improve public welfare and basic amenities, solar-powered streetlights have been installed across all six wards in the constituency, while boreholes with generator support have also been provided to ensure regular water supply for residents.

The lawmaker has also maintained periodic distribution of cash support to constituents during festive periods and other difficult economic times, providing relief to many vulnerable families.

Residents and political observers alike believe that Honourable Yusuf Adebisi has achieved more visible developmental projects than many previous representatives of the constituency, describing his style of representation as practical, people-oriented, and result-driven.

For Adebisi, thanking the party leaders across board, he maintained that development remains the focus, leaving little room for distractions, unnecessary controversies, or political noise, as he continues to channel his energy towards improving the lives of the people he represents.

Hon. Yusuf Adebisi Resigns from PDP Cites Internal Crisis: New Party Platform To Be Revealed.

A member of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Deputy Chief Whip, Yusuf Oladeni Adebisi, has formally resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), citing unresolved internal crisis within the party.

In a resignation letter addressed to the Ward Chairman of the PDP, Ward 6, Ibadan Southwest Local Government Area of Oyo State, the lawmaker stated that his decision to leave the party was taken after careful consideration of the lingering challenges affecting the party’s internal structure and operations.

Hon. Adebisi explained that the prolonged crisis within the PDP had made it difficult for him to continue his political activities under the platform of the party.

Despite his resignation, the lawmaker expressed appreciation to the PDP for the opportunity given to him to serve the people as a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly. He also thanked the leadership, members, and supporters of the party for their cooperation and support during his time in office.

The Deputy Chief Whip noted that his resignation takes immediate effect and urged the party leadership to accept his decision in good faith and with respect.

Political observers say the development may further shape the political landscape within Oyo State ahead of future political activities and alignments.