The Lagos State Government has emphasised the need for the Federal Government to support its quest in the development of critical projects and infrastructure across the State.
The Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 45, 2023 of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPPS), noting that most of the major projects initiated by the present administration are beyond what a State can execute without the support of the Federal Government.
He stated that support from the Federal Government is essential for the State to effectively execute some infrastructure, citing the rail project which is currently being executed as one of such projects which requires funding from the Federal Government, stressing that Lagos State is the only sub-national in the world that is funding a rail line project by herself.
His words, “If you notice, in New York, Addis Ababa, or anywhere else in the world it is the Federal Government that funds their rail project, Lagos is the only sub-national in the world that is funding rail line projects from her balance sheet”.
“We cannot have a population that is growing at a rapid rate and we don’t have a rail line system There will always be congestion, the rail is key and that is why we are doing it, however, it is a huge project financially”, he said.
Speaking further, Hamzat highlighted other infrastructural efforts put in place by the government, including the recently purchased electric buses that are presently being tested. Another important project undertaken by this administration is the Imota Rice Mill which can process 32 tons of rice per hour.
While describing the visit by the Institute to the State as very important, he urged the delegation to push the narratives to the public and ensure that citizens understand that they must grow what they eat and must eat what they grow.
The Director-General, National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPPS), Prof. Ayo Omotayo commended the activities of the State Government in making remarkable strides in every sector of the State.
The Professor explained that the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 45, 2023 was on a state visit to Lagos to learn and understand how the following namely industrialization, energy, security and climate are impacting on the development of the state, as well as collate data that will help in compiling a detailed report on Lagos State.
He noted that the team had visited the Ministries of Economic, Planning and Budget; Science and Technology; Office of Special Duties and Imota Rice Mill amongst others during its tour of the State.