Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday said various reforms have been put in place aimed at making it easier for Lagosians to pay their taxes, saying a more enabling place for business and investment is assured.
The Governor spoke during the 24th annual Thanksgiving at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, noting government would continue to strive to make it easier for the law-abiding citizens to thrive
The theme of this year’s Thanksgiving Service, tagged, “The Righteous shall give thanks to your name” is taken from the book of Psalm 140 verse 13: “Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; the upright shall dwell in your presence.”
Sanwo-Olu said, “We have every reason to give all the glory and thanks to the Almighty God because He has been faithful in the affairs of our dear State. He has granted us great achievements and testimonies; he has given us peace and security; and mightily blessed the work of our hands.
“He has granted us the privilege of seeing yet another edition of this annual Thanksgiving Service, organized in keeping with Lagos State’s tradition of starting every New Year in thanksgiving to God and in acknowledgement of the fact that in Him we live and move and have our being. This is the fifth one so far since I assumed office as Governor, and the first one since the start of our second term.
“There is, indeed, so much to be grateful for. As we raise our voices in praise, adoration and supplication, let us also remember to continue to commit Lagos State and Nigeria to God, for his guidance, and his mercies.
“Let us also continue to pray for all of us who have been given the privilege to serve as leaders, in various capacities in government. We need divine wisdom and grace, as we make multitudes of decisions that will have an impact on the lives of the people. “
The Governor however added, “As a Government, we are resolutely committed to fostering the robust growth of our State and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. We are unwaveringly dedicated to the successful implementation of pivotal projects.
Last year witnessed the historic commencement of commercial operations for the first phase of the Blue Line of our Lagos Rail Mass Transit. Work is already in progress to ensure that the second phase, the extension of the rail line from Mile 2 to Okokomaiko, is completed in the life of this administration.
“I am very pleased to say that very soon, within the next few months in fact, we will witness the formal launch and commencement of operations of the much-anticipated Red Line, from Oyingbo to Agbado.
“Furthermore, we are working very hard to finalize the project financing that will enable the construction of the Fourth Mainland Bridge, which will be one of the longest bridges in Africa, when completed.
“Indeed, all Lagosians have so much to look forward to this year 2024, which is also the first full year of our second and final term in office. You are already familiar with our T.H.E.M.E.S+ development agenda, which will guide and propel all that we do for the progress and development of Lagos State.
“This year will also be an important one for us in terms of enforcement of the various laws and regulations that have been meticulously crafted to safeguard our lives and property. Without adherence to the rule of law, no society can guarantee progress and prosperity.
“On our part, as Government, we will continue to strive to make it easier for you to be law-abiding. Our transport reforms are all aimed at improving the commuting experience for all Lagosians, just as our Emergency Hotlines are there to make it easy for you to “say something if you see something!”
“In the same way, we have in place various reforms aimed at making it easier for you to pay your taxes, and generally making Lagos a more enabling place for business and investment. Together, we can all play our part in achieving a truly Greater Lagos.”
The Governor therefore implored Lagosians to play their part by respecting and obeying the laws of the land, adding “These are all responsibilities that we carry as good people of Lagos State.”
In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon Ibrahim Layode said, ” I can boldly assure you that the coming years are loaded with more developmental projects, life-changing policies that will bring prosperity to the economy of Lagos State as the Mr. Governor has set parameters and conducive investment haven in motion to attract foreign direct investment to the State.
“As we commence this New Year, I implore us to continue to be law abiding, do due diligence in carrying out our civic responsibilities and also ensure that we continue to be our brothers’ keeper while partnering with the Government in making the State an livable place for all. “
