Follow Us on Google
By Philip Nwosu
Prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Dr. Samuel Ajose, has donated an ultra-modern market office complex to the Badagry Local Government, reaffirming his commitment to community development and grassroots empowerment.
The facility, located at Agbalata Market was officially handed over to the Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Mr. Babatunde Hunpe, during a ceremony attended by traders, traditional leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders.
Ajose, founder of the SMA Movement, said the project was initiated in response to appeals from market men and women who lacked adequate shelter while carrying out their daily business activities.
According to him, traders had endured years of exposure to harsh weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and intense sunshine, making the provision of a befitting structure necessary.
“The market men and women appealed to me to erect a roof for them to save them from rain and the scorching sun. When I went round the market, I discovered that what they needed was a good building to house market officials and other marketers,” Ajose said.
He noted that Agbalata Market occupies a special place in the history of Badagry and Lagos State, describing it as one of the oldest markets in the state and a vital commercial hub that has contributed immensely to the educational and socio-economic advancement of the community.
“Being an ancient market, whose proceeds sponsored many of us through higher institutions, I decided to give back to the community. I decided to build a new modern structure to enable marketers and officers to have a place to shelter during rainfall,” he added.
Ajose said his interventions over the years had contributed significantly to the transformation of the market and improved its relevance within and beyond Badagry.
He urged traders and market officials to ensure proper use and maintenance of the facility to guarantee its longevity and continued benefit to future generations.
Other News
Receiving the building on behalf of the local government, Hunpe commended Ajose for his selfless service and dedication to the development of Badagry.
According to the council chairman, Ajose has consistently demonstrated that leadership is about service, sacrifice, and creating positive change in society.
“Ajose has consistently shown that true leadership extends beyond political ambition and personal success. His numerous interventions and humanitarian efforts have touched lives, empowered communities, and contributed meaningfully to our development,” Hunpe said.
He described the newly constructed market office as another testament to Ajose’s passion for Badagry and its people.
“This newly constructed Agbalata Market Office stands as another testament to his passion for service and his love for Badagry. Without any doubt, Ajose has written the name of Badagry in gold through his selfless contributions and developmental initiatives.”
Hunpe further noted that the project would improve administrative efficiency and facilitate the smooth operation of one of the council’s most important commercial centres.
He assured stakeholders that the facility would be utilized effectively and allocated to relevant groups whose activities promote peace, harmony, and efficient market coordination.
Baba-Oja of Ajara-Agamathen, Chief Todowade Abel, expressed appreciation to Ajose for upgrading the market’s infrastructure, describing the project as a remarkable transformation that would benefit traders and future generations.
Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Sule Tolani, also commended Ajose and the SMA Foundation for undertaking the project, describing it as a worthy contribution to community development and economic growth in Badagry.
In recognition of the contributions and legacy of Ajose’s late father, Hunpe announced that the facility would be known as the Prophet Abraham Ajose Building.
