Ambode, at inauguration, creates job, foreign investment ministries

punchng.com

Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State hit the ground running on Friday with the creation three offices to project his development plan for the state.

The governor, during his inaugural speech at Tafawa Balewa Square in Lagos, announced the creation of the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Office of Overseas Affairs and Investment and Office of Civic Engagement.

Ambode explained that the initiative was in line with his campaign promises and would enable him to execute his planned employment trust fund, labour exchange and entrepreneurship drive for Lagosians.

He said the offices were to strengthen and enhance their promise on government of inclusion and promote international investment in the state.

Ambode thanked God, through the good people of Lagos, for his destiny to be born on June 14, 1963, and become the 14th governor of Lagos State.

“The best practices of yesterday might not be good enough for the products of today.  I am determined to demonstrate that the government belongs to the citizens. You have put us here as servants to serve you and not you serving us. Today, we are committed to that creed,” he added.

Ambode said he would reform the civil service to be more proactive and be able to respond to the needs of the citizens.

He said, “The Civil Service will be strengthened and made to respond to the needs of all citizens in the same manner. Quality services will also be rendered to the private sector.

“My administration is prepared to take the decisions needed to promote merit and professionalism.  To restructure where required, eliminate poor human resource practices and accelerate the pace of reforms in the spirit of good governance.

“I want to assure the business community and corporate Lagos that the ease of doing business in Lagos will be improved upon earnestly.

“To this end, a new office of Overseas Affairs and Investment (LAGOS GLOBAL) shall be created under the Governor’s Office. We want you to fly into Lagos, start your business, find your way; live, work and enjoy in Lagos.

“As part of our reforms, a new Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment shall be established.  This will specifically address the promise I made during the campaign on employment trust fund, labour exchange and entrepreneurship.

“Also, the Office of Civic Engagement shall be created under the Deputy Governor’s Office to strengthen and enhance our promise on government of inclusion.”