Reforms Already in Place to Curb Multiple Taxation, Says Sanwo-Olu

•Ambode, Hamzat, others attend Lagos Thanksgiving Service

Segun James

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said that reforms have been put in motion aimed at making taxation easier for Lagosians, even as he insisted that a robust system has been place for business and investment to thrive.

The governor who said this during the 24th annual Thanksgiving of the state  at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, disclosed that government would continue to strive to make it easier for law-abiding citizens to thrive.

The theme of this year’s Thanksgiving Service was: “The Righteous Shall Give Thanks to Your Name.”

Sanwo-Olu said: “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 that he was committed to fostering the robust growth of the state and ensuring the well-being of its citizens.

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,” he stated.

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 liveable place for all. “

The service was attended by Sanwo-Olu and his wife, Ibijoke; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and his wife, Oluremi; the immediate past Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode and wife, Bolanle and Ogun State First Lady, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun.

Other attendees were: The Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, represented by the Chairman of House on Home Affairs, Jubril Abdulkareem; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba, former deputy governors, religious and traditional leaders, public office holders and politicians, among others.

In his exhortation, the Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Stephen Adegbite, said God is good to Lagos State and the state will continue to hold the annual Thanksgiving Service to appreciate God for the continuous peace, growth and development in the State.