Emmanuel Clement
Ejigbo, Lagos — As part of efforts to address traffic congestion, improve sanitation and restore order around the Jakande Estate Gate axis, the Executive Chairman of Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo (TAT), has engaged critical stakeholders on the planned relocation of commercial bus operators and other environmental reforms within the area.
The stakeholders’ meeting, held at the council secretariat, brought together government officials, transport unions, market leaders, residents and community representatives to deliberate on practical solutions to the growing challenges posed by illegal refuse dumping, indiscriminate trading and unauthorized commercial activities around the busy Jakande Estate Gate corridor.
Present at the meeting were the Vice Chairman, Hon. Mrs. Abimbola Nicholas-Ike; Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Mrs. Yemisi Dorcas Otuyemi; Councillor representing Ailegun Ward, Hon. Adedoyin Ifatunmise Adefioye; Councillor representing Oke-Afa Ward, Hon. Rukayat Olabisi Muritala; Supervisor for Special Duties, Hon. Kehinde Onadeko; Council Manager, Pastor Olusegun Ajagunna; Council Engineer, Engr. Isikalu Solomon Abiodun.
Others are Head of Department, Environment, Mrs. Salami Temitayo; President of the Estate Residents Association, Engr. Fatai Oloko; Chairman of NURTW Ejigbo/Isolo Branch ‘B’; representatives of the Tricycle Owners and Operators Association of Nigeria (TOOAN), Gate Market stakeholders and other community leaders.
Addressing the gathering,Aare TAT stressed that the exercise was part of his administration’s commitment to creating a cleaner, safer and more organized Ejigbo, noting that the council would continue to prioritize policies that promote environmental sustainability and ease of movement.
According to him, the initiative is not intended to deprive anyone of their means of livelihood but to ensure that commercial activities are carried out in designated locations that guarantee public safety and enhance the aesthetic outlook of the community.
“We are determined to reclaim public spaces, improve traffic flow and maintain a healthy environment for our people. Development requires cooperation and sacrifice, and we will continue to engage all stakeholders to ensure that no one is left behind in this process,” the chairman said.
He added that the council remains committed to implementing the relocation exercise in a transparent and humane manner, with adequate consultations and consideration for the interests of all parties involved.
Following the meeting,the Executive Chairman led the stakeholders on an inspection tour of the proposed relocation site to enable them assess the facilities and provide inputs towards ensuring a seamless and mutually beneficial transition.
Investigator news reports that stakeholders commended the council’s consultative approach and expressed optimism that the initiative would bring lasting solutions to congestion, indiscriminate waste disposal and disorderly commercial activities around Jakande Estate Gate.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining environmental reforms and fostering collaboration with residents and other stakeholders in building a cleaner, safer and more economically vibrant Ejigbo.