The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring compliance with building regulations and promoting a safe and sustainable environment across the state.
During the inauguration of the new operational headquarters of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) in Ikeja, the Governor expressed his commitment to maintaining a sanitized built environment and enforcing strict adherence to building standards.
LASBCA’s primary mandate is to oversee the observance of basic minimum standards and quality control in building construction in the State. This is in line with the government’s agenda to achieve structurally sound, secure, and sustainable buildings.
The Governor emphasized that his administration is focused on providing a conducive workplace for state workers to enhance their performance. He highlighted that the newly commissioned building will further position the State for the effective regulation of construction activities across Lagos.
“The commissioning of this building today, the Lagos State Building Control Agency, which plays a crucial role in regulating construction activities, ensuring compliance with building standards, and promoting safety in our rapidly growing urban landscape has been further repositioned to effectively discharge its responsibilities in line with the THEMES + agenda for a greater Lagos.
“The newly commissioned office will serve as the nerve center for these vital functions, equipped with modern technology and skilled workforces to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.”
“In a rapidly evolving city like ours, it is imperative that we have robust mechanisms in place to address the challenges of urbanization.
“This LASBCA office will be at the forefront of this effort at collaborating with stakeholders, developers, and citizens to create a built environment that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also safe and sustainable,” he said.
In his address, the General Manager of LASBCA, Mr. Gbolahan Oki, assured the Governor that his team would elevate their performance to uphold the highest standard of construction. He also emphasized the importance of ensuring compliance with regulations, a commitment that will be further reinforced by the new facility.
Furthermore, Mr. Oki highlighted that the concept for the facility was conceived and executed by LASBCA staff, showcasing their dedication to delivering a world-class structure.
During the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu also addressed the controversy surrounding a procurement letter circulating on social media regarding the financial spending by his administration. He emphasized his government’s commitment to transparency and dismissed the unnecessary controversy, asserting that the State has nothing to hide in its expenditure.
He acknowledged the value of constructive criticism but raised concerns about individuals with “malicious intentions” hiding behind political opposition to distort the truth. The Governor pointed out discrepancies in the figures quoted on the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency (PPA) website, which led to misinformation and controversy.
“Over the weekend, we saw on social media how some people can politically turn around all of our attempts to be responsible, transparent and committed to good governance. We don’t have a problem with any individual. We, indeed, acknowledged that this is the way it should be. We appreciate the fact that people can look at us in the face and say you need to do well in this area.
“We don’t have a problem with the originator of the open letter; in short, we like him and we thank him. Indeed, if we are seen as the Government that is transparent and responsible, we should not be shy of criticism. But it is only when criticism is malicious and is misrepresenting the truth, that is when there will be a problem.
“Officers in Lagos State have come out to show that there could be mistakes on some lines of items. There was a particular issue where an item was meant to be N2 million, but was written as N2 billion. There are many discrepancies which have been corrected by PPA. We are not going to join issues with anyone on social media. All we are committed to is continuous service to the people of Lagos.”
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the State’s commitment to transparency and accountability, highlighting the open books for checks and balances. He reassured the public that the State has allocated funds judiciously to projects and services that benefit the residents.