Sanwo-Olu Emerges 2023 Consumer Rights Advocate Governor

Eko Hot Blog reports that Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has emerged as the 2023 Consumer Rights Advocate Governor, alongside the General Manager of LASOCPA, Afolabi Solebo who was also recognised with a Special Recognition Award for protecting the rights of consumers in Lagos State.

The Award Ceremony with the theme: “Consumer Satisfaction Index”, was organized by BrandXchange, a Public Relations firm dedicated to empowering Nigerian consumers with the ability to voice their opinions and experiences.

Sanwo-Olu, represented at the event held recently at the Radisson Blu Hotels, Ikeja by the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Mrs. Oluremi Ososanya and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Olumide Sogunle, described the honour as not just a recognition but a celebration of the collective achievements of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, LASCOPA.

He commended the initiative of the organiser of the award, saying that the gesture is geared towards protecting the interest of consumers through advocacy and raising awareness of consumer rights.

In his words: “As we all know, the overriding responsibility of government as enshrined in the constitution is to ensure the welfare and security of the citizens. Promoting citizen’s welfare connotes among other things, protecting them against exploitation and ensuring that they receive value for their money spent on goods and services”.

He explained that the establishment of LASCOPA was because the State Government recognized the need to put in place an agency that would be charged with the responsibility of ensuring that people are not shortchanged or exploited and receive the satisfaction expected from the goods and services purchased.

The Governor added that the extension of the award recognition to the General Manager of LASCOPA shows that the efforts and dedication of Mr. Solebo to consumer protection are in line with the vision of the agency.

He informed that the award would spur his administration to continue the advocacy for consumer rights, fighting against injustices and striving for a marketplace where every consumer is treated fairly and with respect.

His words, “We will not rest on our oars, we will continue to strengthen the capacity of LASCOPA to do more, especially in ensuring that our advocacy campaign is sustained for more effectiveness and wider reach”.

The General Manager of LASOCPA, Afolabi Solebo thanked BrandXchange for taking the bold step of empowering Nigerian consumers to give feedback on brands across various categories and about the efforts of LASCOPA.

Solebo assured the consuming public that the agency would not relent in prioritising the interest of consumers and displeased service providers.

He said, “We will continue to ensure consumer satisfaction, value for money and protection from hazardous products. The replacement of hazardous products with safe products and seek ways and means of eliminating hazardous products from the market in conjunction with the relevant Government Agencies”.

In a Goodwill Message, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, who also received an award at the event, averred that the Consumers Value Awards attest to the power of consumer influence and the significant role consumers play in shaping the business landscape.

He called on consumers to recognize their responsibilities to make informed choices and support businesses that align with their values. The CEO of BrandXchange and organiser of the Awards, Mr Akonte Ekine explained that the organisation received an overwhelming response from consumers across the country who took the time to nominate and vote for their favourite brands. “It is a testament to the active and discerning nature of consumers as over 300 brands were nominated for consideration”, he added.