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By: Augustine Mautin Kiki
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| Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende [Photo credit: Official Twitter page] |
Badagry ranks as an important city in Lagos State and Nigeria as a nation. This assertion cannot be unconnected to its place in the annals of Nigeria's historical origins and development. In Lagos State, Badagry is perhaps the headquarters of what is known as Badagry Division today. Apart from the many historical monuments that are situated in Badagry due to its early contacts with European explorers, slave merchants, and missionaries, it's also blessed with rich cultural heritage and a people who are largely peaceful, resilient, and productive.
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However, the level of inclusion in the scheme of affairs and the state of infrastructure, among others, have continued to raise great concerns in the minds of many, both within and without. With the place of Badagry in the mappings of the state, one will simply expect the presence of development indicators such as quality social amenities, infrastructure, and a good standard of living of the people. Unfortunately, the city of Badagry is either denied of these, or, at best, those available have been in shambles for decades.
No doubt, development is not an end in itself, it's a process unending. Notwithstanding, at every stage of development, the quality of life of the people is sacrosanct. This is why social amenities and infrastructure are critical in ensuring a good standard of living of the people.
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| commissioning Borehole at Iworo Market Badagry on June 3,2023 |
In light of the above, Badagry needs leaders who are committed to development in all the major arms and tiers of government. Leaders whose antecedents and track records both in private and public life can earn the trust of the people. As a community that yearns for concrete development, Badagry needs people of goodwill that will skyrocket transformation in critical aspects of society.
It's against this background that the nomination of Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende as a member of the Executive arm of the state is not just a welcome development, it's timely for Badagry's quest for development. This assertion is indisputably factual, considering his track record and antecedents in leadership and community service. In the past years up till now, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, fondly called RAK through his foundation (RAK DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION) has continued to impact positively on the lives of many, particularly in Badagry and its environs. His philanthropic engagements cut across education, health, youth development, women empowerment, human capital development, skill acquisition, and a host of others too numerous to pen down.
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| Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende at Two Days heads of Station Retreat at Alausa-Ikeja Lagos on May 4, 2023 [Photo credit: Official Twitter handle] |
It's not surprising, therefore, that about half a year before the expiration of the last administration, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, appointed him as a Special Adviser on Special Duties and InterGovernmental Relations, where he served meritoriously. No doubt, his new nomination is a confirmation of his vibrancy, resourcefulness and commitment to serving public interests. This nomination is therefore a great opportunity for Badagry to get synchronised into the scheme of things in the state administration. It will also guarantee quality representation of a people who were hitherto neglected. It's hoped with enthusiasm that this is a new dawn of meaningful inclusion, a new era of mega development, and a testament of greater heights for the people of Badagry.
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| Augustine Mautin Kiki. A Critic and Public Affairs Analyst. |