The Lagos State Government under the present administration of Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, doled out N500 million as grant to 275 Community Development Associations (CDAs) to enable them complete their on-going self-help projects, ranging from Community halls, street light, transformers, police posts etc.
Governor Ambode, who presented the grant to the CDAs at De Blue Roof, LTV, Agidingbi, said it was not in doubt that the various self help projects, ranging from community halls, street light, transformers, police post, drainage and health centres by these communities were complementing the efforts of the State and Local Government to engender growth and development.
He said his administration was totally committed to supporting CDAs in the initiation and implementation of community based development projects, adding that apart from being in line with his administration’s policy of inclusive governance, such approach would guarantee ownership of such projects by the communities.
“These projects have contributed immensely to make our communities to be more liveable for residents. I must commend all of you for the various projects you have initiated and funded from your voluntary levies and donations by members.
“I thank all of you for appreciating the fact that voluntary community effort is required to facilitate growth and development,” Governor Ambode said.
He said the decision to aid the CDAs with grant was based on the report gathered from monitoring of some of the ongoing community projects, which showed that some of the projects were on the verge of being abandoned due to paucity of funds, noting that the gesture was therefore compelling.
“Today’s occasion is historic; we are presenting financial support of N500million Grant to 275 Community Development Associations to enable them complete their various self-help projects which had been executed to an appreciable level. Let me emphasise that this will be a continuous exercise. Other deserving Community Development Associations will also be considered in the next phase of this presentation,” the Governor said.
“The message remains the same. We are committed to good governance and inclusive leadership. We know your efforts remain selfless to all your communities. We are partners in governance and we will always support you.
“I congratulate the leadership and members of the CDAs that are benefitting from this support initiative. It is my expectation that all the self-help projects covered by this grant will be completed as soon as possible for the usage and benefit of residents,” he said.
The Governor also charged residents in the communities to take ownership of the projects and protect them against vandalisation and all acts that would result in the reduction of the life span of the facilities.
Some of the communities that benefitted from the grant include Olera CDA, Ojokoro; Anifowoshe CDA, Ikeja; Onibaba CDA, Ajeromi Ifelodun; Ogoitan Phase I CDA, Epe; Ifelodun Surulere CDA, Olorunda; Ofiran Phase 1 CDA, Ibeju Lekki; Equitable Estate CDA, Igbogbo Baiyeku; Anuoluwapo CDA, Ojota, among others.