Around the world, we are seeing examples of how we can live and thrive even as we work towards a cure or vaccine for #COVID19.
Today, we take further steps in easing some restrictions on public gatherings, and other decisions as we adjust to this reality.
Religion is a source of hope and light for many and we recognise its role in shaping our society.
Today, we announce the resumption of religious activities at 40% capacity for mosques and churches from June 19 and June 21 respectively with face masks and other precautions.
Our religious leaders must lead by example and put the safety of lives first.
The reopening is limited to only obligatory services and with a 'No face mask, No entry' policy throughout the duration of the services. Vigils and other extra-religious activities remain prohibited.
Persons above the age of 65 years and below the age of 15 are prohibited from participating in organised religious gatherings.
Religious centres should embrace technology and virtual platforms for these members and others who choose to continue with this mode of worship.
Social and entertainment centres, such as clubs, gyms, spas, parks, and cinemas will remain closed for the next two weeks. Operators will prepare for reopening by registering with the Lagos State Safety Commission & getting acquainted with the detailed guidelines and requirements
Public service workers from Grade Levels 13 and 14 will return to work from June 8 while Level 1-12 will stay away from the office till further notice.
Private companies can now operate from 7am-6pm but are advised to work in shifts to prevent overcrowding.
In our collective efforts to defeat #COVID19, it is important to know that the virus isn't on a break so we must continue to take precautions. The public health advisories and guidelines are for our wellbeing and safety.
I must say again that the use of masks in public places remains mandatory. It is not optional. You must wear a facemask when you are out and about in public. I urge us to take responsibility for our personal safety and conduct when we are out of our homes.
I am passionate about the people of Lagos and I remain committed to creating a better future for all residents.
As we countdown to Saturday, lets look back on some of our work in the last four years and how they confirm that indeed a #GreaterLagosRising.
On education, we have made significant progress in Lagos by demonstrating our commitment to preserving the future of our children, that’s why in the steps of the great Pa Lateef Jakande, we turned our focus to our primary and secondary educational system.
We have upgraded 970 public schools and recruited over 1,000 school teachers in the process.
We also renovated and digitized 243 public school libraries. This guarantees quality education for our children regardless of the financial capabilities of their parents.
Today marks 8 days to the elections and I am happy to share some thoughts as well as some highlights of our journey so far.
Our first 4 years have shown our capability and commitment to making Lagos a place that works for you.
Lagos has always been the heartbeat of Nigeria, but, of course, every good thing can always be better.
And we have proven beyond doubt that we are committed to making it the absolute best city for every Lagosian.
We have commissioned over 4,600 projects across health, education, infrastructure, security, welfare, and environment, with over 70% of them already in use.
As we countdown to D-Day, I will be sharing some of the landmark projects with you.
This is necessary in view of the ongoing situation in the country, regarding the change of currency notes and the attendant hardships being faced by ordinary Lagosians.
First, let me thank you for your patience and unwavering perseverance.
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Lagosians, this is a heartfelt call to you to please remain calm at this time, and avoid all forms of violence, arson and rioting.
Even in the face of the difficulties and frustrations being faced by all, violence and destruction should not and will never be the answer.
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We have noticed the rampant incidents surrounding some of the players in the financial services value chain who have taken the current challenges to mean an opportunity to extort hard working Lagosians with extortionate charges on funds withdrawal and sale of PMS.
I hereby commend your patience and calmness, following the sad controversy generated by the Naira shortage crisis.
I would like to inform you that we have joined the dispute at the Supreme Court, which adjourned the hearing of the matter till Feb 22.
When the matter first came up on February 8, the apex court said the old notes remained legal tender.
That position has not changed. Therefore we hereby warn those rejecting old notes to desist from doing so or face prosecution. It is against the law to reject the old notes.
I plead with everyone to remain law-abiding, and shun mischief makers who may want to exploit this temporary situation to promote their anti-people agenda.
I am confident that the Judiciary will resolve all the issues around the currency shortage crisis.
Today, at a dialogue with the Organised Private Sector to unveil my comprehensive economic plan, I assured the Business Community of our commitment to sustain strategic investment in infrastructure to bolster productivity, energise business growth and protect private capital.
At the interactive session, I elaborated on our economic redistribution plans aimed at expanding the Lagos business district to suburbs in the Western and Eastern parts of the State.
Our economic blueprint captured in the six-pillar THEMES Agenda has been rolled out…
… and implemented to fix the immediate needs of our citizens and the business community.
The question we need to ask ourselves as we make vital decisions in the coming weeks is, what are the best alternatives we have? Nigeria cannot be on an experimental trajectory.