- Owu-Ikosi and Agbowa-Ikosi monarchs support the proposed Agbowa MRF.
- Traditional rulers demand full implementation of the project as presented by LASG.
- Monarchs call for continued consultation, transparency and community involvement.
The Olowu of Owu-Ikosi, Oba Nelson Ogunlari, and the Abowa of Agbowa-Ikosi, Oba Owolabi Momson, have expressed support for the proposed Material Recovery Facility (MRF) in Agbowa, Epe Division, while urging the Lagos State Government to ensure full implementation of the project.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the monarchs made their positions known during an engagement with the Lagos State Government over the proposed facility, noting that their communities were not opposed to development projects that could improve the welfare and living conditions of residents.
They, however, stressed the need for proper consultation, transparency and continuous engagement with host communities throughout the implementation process.
According to the traditional rulers, the presentation of the proposed MRF by the state government was satisfactory and provided clarification on the nature and components of the project.
They expressed confidence that the facility could contribute positively to the development of Owu-Ikosi and Agbowa-Ikosi if the government delivers the project as presented.
“Our communities are not against development. What is important is that the people are properly carried along and that the project is implemented as presented,” the monarchs said.
The traditional rulers urged the Lagos State Government to maintain open communication with community stakeholders as work on the project progresses.
They noted that involving traditional institutions and residents in discussions on projects directly affecting their communities would help prevent misunderstandings and promote cooperation.
The monarchs also called on the government to implement every component contained in the project plan, warning that partial execution could undermine the objectives of the facility.
“We expect all the components contained in the project plan to be delivered. The commitments made during the consultation should be honoured,” they said.
The proposed MRF is expected to strengthen waste recovery and management, promote recycling and improve the utilisation of recoverable materials across Lagos State.
For the host communities, the monarchs said the project could become beneficial if the government follows through with the facilities and commitments presented during the engagement.
They further called for regular consultations as implementation activities commence, stressing that keeping residents informed would strengthen trust between the government and the communities.
The monarchs’ support comes as the Lagos State Government continues efforts to secure wider acceptance for the proposed facility in Agbowa.
The state government had earlier engaged traditional rulers, chiefs and community representatives to explain the project and address concerns raised by stakeholders.
The monarchs reaffirmed their willingness to cooperate with the government and encouraged other community stakeholders to participate constructively in the process.
They maintained that the development, peace and wellbeing of their respective communities remained their primary concerns.
“We welcome development initiatives that can improve the lives of our people, but such development must respect the interests and expectations of the host communities,” the traditional rulers said.
The proposed Agbowa MRF is expected to form part of Lagos State’s broader efforts to improve waste management infrastructure and increase the recovery and recycling of valuable materials.
The monarchs expressed hope that the project would deliver the benefits outlined by the state government and urged relevant agencies to maintain transparency and accountability throughout its implementation.
