Ambode Creates Ministry Of Employment, Two Other Offices In Lagos

OUTGOING Governor of LagosState,
Babatunde Fashwola, yesterday, handed
over the administration of the state to
Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, as the 8th
elected governor of the state alongwith
his deputy, Dr Oluranti Adebule at a
colourful and well attended inauguration
and swearing-in ceremony, held at
TafawaBalewa Square, TBS, Lagos Island.
The dignitaries at the ceremony were
former governors of the state; Brigadier
Mobolaji Johnson, Alhaji Lateef Jakande,
Rear Admiral Nduisi Kanu while former
deputy governorsin attendance were;
Mr. Femi Pedro and Adebisi Sosan.
Also Senator GbengaAshafa, Senator
Remi Tinubu and Senator Solomon
Adeola, Oba of Lagos Rilwanu Akiolu,
members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Captainsof Industries, state lawmakers,
All Progressives Congress, APC, stalwarts,
members of trade associations, students
among otherswere in attendance.
Ambode, decked in white attire
(Agabada) with a red cap to match, was
sworn in by the Chief Judge of Lagos,
Justice Funmilayo Atilade, at about
11.25am
Ambode:
Ambode’s deputy, Mrs. Oluranti Adebule,
had been sworn in at about 11.19am by
Atilade.
The governor, after inspecting the guard
of parade mounted by members of the
Nigeria Police Force, said, “As we
collectively face the challenge to make
Lagos abetter place to live in, we must
recognize our strength in diversity. A
common national identity where
everybodycounts. I shall run an open
government of inclusion that will not
leave anyone behind. No matter your
age, sex, tribe or any other Status, as
long as you reside in Lagos, we will make
Lagos work for you.
“I want to assure all of usthat I will make
your taxes work for you. You will surely
get a transparent and incorru-ptible
government that will give you good value
for your taxes paid.
“We shall embark on continuous reforms
in the public service. I am determined to
demonstrate that the government
belongs to the citizens. You have put us
here as servants to serve you and not
you servingus. Today we are committed
to that creed.Moving forward, the Civil
Service will be strengthened and made
to respond to the needs of all citizens in
the same manner, quality services are
rendered in the private sector.
Creation of new ministry, offices
Highpoint of the inaugural speech which
attracted ovation from the crowd was
the announcement by the newly sworn
in governor of the creation of a new
ministry and two offices.
According to Ambode “I want to assure
the business community and corporate
Lagos that the ease of doing businessin
Lagos will be improved upon earnestly.
Lagos is open for greater business.
To this end, a new Office of Overseas
Affairs and Investment (LAGOS GLOBAL)
shall be created under the Governor’s
Office.
“We want you to fly into Lagos, start
your business, find your way, live, work
and enjoy in Lagos.
“As part of our reforms, a new Ministry
of Wealth Creation and Employment
shall be established. This would
specifically address the promise I made
during the campaign on employment
trust fund, labour exchange and
entrepreneurship. This goal, we shall
pursue vigorously.
“Allso, the Office of Civic Engagement
shall be created under the Deputy
Governor’s Office to strengthen and
enhance our promise on government of
inclusion. Everyone must have a voice in
my administration.”