Lagos will make significant progress next year – Ambode

…Says Govt will Maximize 2016 budget to create wealth for the people

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Thursday expressed confidence that despite the gloomy economic predictions and projected revenue shortfall, Lagos State will take a greater leap forward in 2016.

The Governor who spoke at the Christmas Eve Dance organised by Island Club, Lagos said he was confident that the implementation of the N662, 558,000 ‘People’s Budget’ for Year 2016, which he presented to the House of Assembly a fortnight ago, will engender more significant progress in the coming year despite the anticipated challenges.

He said the success of the 2016 budget is anchored on the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), adding that greater attention will be paid to E-Governance to help boost service delivery to the people.

“The indicators for 2016 are not encouraging but we are very confident that our State will record significant progress. We will introduce measures to increase our revenues and allocate resources to the areas of greater good. We have had several good meetings with investors who are keen to come and do business in Lagos State”.

“The revenue derived from the Federal Allocation has been on the decline and is expected to decline further. So while, the indicators say that there will be less revenue, inflation and job cuts, we are quietly confident about 2016. We are inspired to face the challenges and prepared to maximise the opportunities that will unfold”, the Governor said.

He said the focus of his government in the last seven months was geared towards laying a foundation for the sustainable development of the State through prudent management of resources, public sector reforms and realignments thereby reducing the cost of governance and increasing concentration on infrastructural development, security, health and transportation.

He thanked the club for contributing their quota towards the development of the state, just as he appealed for continued support, cooperation and understanding to enable his administration achieve the set out goals for next year.

“As we look forward to the challenges of 2016, I can confidently say that many of the people who will shape the year are seated here.

“As a well-respected body comprising eminent and distinguished Lagosians, I am aware that the prosperity and progress of Lagos State is your concern. It is also my concern and priority because that is the assignment I have been given by the good people of this State. Together, we will make this happen”, Governor Ambode said.

Also speaking at a similar event put together by the Yoruba Tennis Club, Governor Ambode urged residents of the state to rally round his administration by supporting the programmes and policies aimed at making life more comfortable for Lagosians.

“Government alone cannot ensure full implementation of the budget; the people also have to keep their own side of the bargain by diligently performing their civic obligations to the Government through prompt and regular payment of taxes.”

“All of us therefore have our jobs cut out for us in the New Year. Lagos State must be clean, safe and prosperous. That is our promise to the people and it is a promise I intend to keep”, he said.