The Olowu of Owu-Ikosi, Oba Nelson Ogunlari, and the Abowa of Agbowa-Ikosi, Oba Owolabi Momson, have expressed support for development initiatives that will improve the welfare and growth of their communities.
Epe Insights reports that the traditional rulers made their positions known during discussions with the Lagos State Government over the proposed Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Agbowa, Epe Division.
The monarchs said their communities were not opposed to development projects capable of improving the area.
They, however, stressed the importance of proper consultation and the involvement of all relevant stakeholders throughout the project.
According to the traditional rulers, community participation is essential to ensuring that development initiatives are successfully implemented.
They urged the Lagos State Government to maintain open communication with the communities as work on the proposed facility progresses.
The monarchs noted that the presentation of the project and its proposed facilities was satisfactory.
They said the details provided by the government had helped to clarify the nature and expected components of the proposed Material Recovery Facility.
The traditional rulers expressed confidence that the project could contribute positively to the development of the communities if properly implemented.
They emphasised that their position was based on the understanding of the project as presented by the state government.
The monarchs also stressed the need for transparency throughout the implementation process.
They urged the government to ensure that the commitments made during the engagement are followed through.
According to them, the success of the project would depend largely on the proper execution of the agreed plans.
They specifically called on the state government to implement all the components contained in the project plan.
The traditional rulers said partial implementation could undermine the objectives of the facility and the expectations of the host communities.
They therefore urged relevant government agencies to remain committed to the full delivery of the proposed project.
The Olowu of Owu-Ikosi and the Abowa of Agbowa-Ikosi also emphasised the importance of continued dialogue between the government and community stakeholders.
They said traditional institutions should remain part of discussions concerning developments that directly affect their communities.
The monarchs maintained that effective consultation would help prevent misunderstandings and promote cooperation.
They also encouraged the government to ensure that community concerns are considered at different stages of the project.
The traditional rulers’ position provides further support for the proposed Material Recovery Facility in Agbowa.
Their endorsement also reflects the importance of traditional institutions in facilitating development and maintaining communication between government and residents.
The monarchs said they welcomed projects that could contribute to the improvement of infrastructure and living conditions in their communities.
They, however, reiterated that development should be carried out in a manner that respects the interests and expectations of the people.
The proposed MRF is expected to contribute to improved waste recovery and management within Lagos State.
The facility is also designed to support recycling and better utilisation of recoverable materials.
For the host communities, the monarchs said the project could become beneficial if the government delivers the facilities as presented.
They therefore urged all stakeholders to work together toward achieving the intended objectives.
The traditional rulers also called for regular engagement as implementation activities commence.
They said keeping communities informed would promote trust and strengthen cooperation between residents and the state government.
The monarchs’ comments came amid efforts by the Lagos State Government to secure broad community acceptance before commencing work on the Agbowa facility.
The government had earlier engaged traditional rulers, chiefs and community representatives to address concerns surrounding the project.
The engagement was aimed at ensuring that the communities were adequately carried along.
The support expressed by Oba Ogunlari and Oba Momson is expected to contribute to a smoother implementation process.
The traditional rulers said their communities remained open to initiatives that would bring meaningful development.
They reiterated that opposition to development was not the position of their communities.
Instead, they sought assurances that the project would be delivered according to the plan presented by the government.
They also emphasised the importance of accountability in the implementation of the facility.
The monarchs said all parties must remain committed to the agreements reached during consultations.
They further urged the government to ensure that no aspect of the approved project plan is neglected.
The position of the traditional rulers highlights the balance between welcoming development and protecting community interests.
Their call for continued consultation also reinforces the need for inclusive decision-making in grassroots development projects.
The proposed Agbowa MRF is expected to form part of Lagos State’s wider efforts to strengthen waste management infrastructure.
The facility could help improve the recovery of recyclable materials while reducing the volume of waste sent to landfills.
The monarchs expressed their willingness to cooperate with the government in ensuring the success of the project.
They also encouraged other community stakeholders to participate constructively in the process.
The traditional rulers said their priority remained the development, peace and wellbeing of their respective communities.
They expressed hope that the proposed project would deliver the benefits outlined by the state government.
They also urged relevant agencies to maintain transparency and accountability throughout the implementation period.
The monarchs concluded by reaffirming their support for development initiatives while stressing the need for proper consultation and complete project execution.
Their position is expected to strengthen cooperation between the Lagos State Government and the communities as plans for the Agbowa MRF advance.
