The Lagos State Government says it is considering the possibility of establishing an airline for passenger operations as it gears up for the groundbreaking of its airport construction in Lekki.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu unveiled the plan at the Lagos West Senatorial District People’s Town Hall Meeting held at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Ikeja, where he showcased the achievements of his administration in the West of Lagos.
A Former Permanent Secretary and retired Auditor General for Local Government in Lagos, Pa Muhammed Hassan raised threw the poser to the Governor, saying, he believes the State was ripe to own an airline.
Responding, Sanwo-Olu revealed that the plan had been in the pipeline for months, and that th state is finalising the financing model, while awaiting Federal Government approval, and operational contingency for the airline.
Commendations however poured in from citizens at the town hall meeting as Governor Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat took feedback, emphasizing public input in decision-making.
The governor highlighted completed infrastructure projects, including 42 new roads and two flyovers in the District, with the combined length of the infrastructure spanning over 72 kilometres.
He also mentioned that the last four and half years had seen Lagos taking a leap forward in its socio-economic and development trajectory:
assuring that continued development, pledging to double efforts in his second term.
Sanwo-Olu discussed plans for an airline and reiterated the administration’s commitment to healthcare, security, and inclusive governance.
The Governor noted the senatorial district benefits significantly from his administration’s intracity railway projects, with major passenger hubs in Lagos West for the Blue Line and Red Line trains.
He mentioned the progress of constructing a new General Hospital in the Ojo axis, stating its completion will enhance healthcare access in the district.
To improve security, Sanwo-Olu announced plans to deploy more patrol vehicles and gadgets for security agencies to respond to emerging threats.
He urged citizens to follow the law and support government measures for maintaining law and order. The Governor emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring fair and just laws for all.
“The feedback and inputs we are taking away from here will help us to cater for your needs and wellbeing better. On our part, we will strive to make it easier for you to be law-abiding. It is not enough to say the laws must be obeyed, we must also ensure that the laws are clear, fair and just?”
Earlier, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, had likened the meeting to an Annual General Meeting, promoting an all-inclusive government.
Despite delays due to unforeseen events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, he assured that conversation with citizens on the Lagos project continues.
The meeting involved stakeholders from various sectors, fostering open discussions with the Governor and promoting an inclusive approach to governance.
