The Lagos state government (LASG) on Monday flagged-off the construction of a 40-bed trauma centre at Ikorodu General Hospital.

He also inaugurated the 1.6km Lambo Lasunwon Road.

Speaking during the inauguration, Obafemi Hamzat, Lagos deputy governor, urged residents to take ownership of all government projects.

“Ikorodu has received the largest chunk of infrastructural development projects in the state, with about N26 billion in compensation to residents and property owners on Isawo, Igbogbo, and Gberigbe roads,” Mr Hamzat said.

He pledged that the government would undertake more development projects in Ikorodu.

He commended Rep. Babajimi Benson (APC Lagos), chairman, committee on defence, for facilitating various development projects in the community and advised others to emulate him.

The deputy governor said that the trauma centre would be completed in nine months and ready for use.

Mr Hamzat urged the people to always elect representatives of credible character in order to enjoy dividends of democracy.

“Although things are tough, Ikorodu people are lucky to have a good representative; therefore, l urge you not to be despondent.

‘We did not have a trauma centre here before now, but in nine months, the project will be completed and commissioned.

“Also, we do not pray for emergencies, but we should plan and be prepared for unexpected eventualities,” he said.

Earlier in his address, Oba Kabiru Shotobi, the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, extended his appreciation to the Lagos government, while appealing for more development projects, especially the completion of the ultra-modern central market.

In his remarks, Dr Taiwo Hassan, managing director, Ikorodu General Hospital, noted that the trauma centre would reduce the mortality rate among residents.

‘The hospital was established in 1956 with four departments that have now increased to 32.

“Twenty-three thousand patients visit the hospital every month, 16,000 out of them are trauma-related sicknesses.

“We thank the lawmaker because this centre will go a long way in reducing mortality rate,” he said.

Similarly, Niran Ogunbanwo, chairman, Community Development Commission, Ikorodu North, appreciated the federal lawmaker for the initiative.

He also appealed for the construction of a pedestrian bridge on Ikorodu-Isagamu Road, to reduce accidents.

“The community has bought hectares of land in preparation for a school in the community.

“So, like Oliver twist, we urge the Lagos State government to build secondary schools and construct bus-stops at strategic locations,” he said.

Mr Benson, on his part, urged residents to take ownership of the projects.

He said that the road connects 12 community development areas and four different communities.

The lawmaker said that the newly commissioned Lambo Lasunwon Road would bring more economic opportunities to the communities

He called on government to continue to support developmental projects in and around the Ikorodu axis.

The deputy governor paid a courtesy visit on the Ayangburen of Ikorodu before moving to the General Hospital, and thereafter inaugurated the 1.6 km Lambo Lasunwon Road.

(NAN)