GOVERNOR Babajide Sanwo-olu, today, promised that the state government is ready and willing to ensure adequate compensate for loss of economic crops and replacement of lost assets such as buildings and ancestral sites that would be displaced as a result of the construction of the Badagry Deep Seaport.
Speaking at a community engagement with indigene of Badagry, the governor, enjoined Aivoji, Asakpo and Hoke-Daho communities to present their concerns so that they could be resolved, especially as a project like the deep seaport will require a lot of sacrifice from the people and affected communities.
“This will enable the conclusion of the Global Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU) so that payment of compensations can begin. I have no doubt in my mind that all lingering doubts and questions would be aired and resolved here today, so that together, we can complete the course of constructing a deep sea port that would not only bring economic growth to the people of this community, but would also have a far reaching positive effect, both economic and social, on all the other communities around Badagry, and especially those on the mainland and Apapa specifically.
“It is my desire that you share my feelings of excitement about the many good developmental projects we are about to embark on, in your division, and see the enormous turn-around that the ancient and historic town of Badagry is about to experience as a result of this Deep Sea Port Project. Orson Scott Card, an American writer said that Every person is defined by the communities he/she belongs to.”
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Dr Lola Akande, applauded the governor for his commitment to the project because without his directional and purposeful leadership, the project would have remained another pipe dream.
“On behalf of all stakeholders therefore, i thank you for providing an enabling business environment and staying committed to the transformation and development of the Badagry Division, like all other divisions in the State which is in line with the fourth pillar of your administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda: Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy.
“On our part in the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, we remain committed to making Lagos a 21st Century Economy and therefore, would continue to promote sustainable commercial and industrial growth through improved business support policies and infrastructure. Our door is always wide open for suggestions and dialogues at all times. We earnestly seek for your cooperation in making our dear state attractive to investors at all times for the continued growth and development of our local economy.”
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Badagry Port Development Limited, Mr Didi Ndiomu, appreciated the host communities for their support, most especially the Baales and paramount rulers for the cordial relationship that exists between the company and the communities since 2012. “We will endeavor to sustain this as no business can thrive without a peaceful environment. We are also using this opportunity to appeal to the few communities that are yet to fully come on board, that they should exercise no fear as their interests will be protected,” he said.
