Ambode Lauds PMB For Handing Over Presidential Lodge

Governor Ambode, has expressed gratitude to President Buhari for handing over of the Presidential Lodge in Marina to the State.

The Presidency had granted the Governor’s request to have the presidential lodge released to the Lagos State Government. This is in a bid to transform the Marina-Onikan axis into a world-class arts and tourism hub.

The approval was communicated in a letter signed by his Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba Kyari, to Governor Ambode.

In a statement by the State’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Steve Ayorinde, he thanked the President for his kind gesture and magnanimity. He also extols his keen admiration for Lagos State as the Centre of Excellence.

“This, in my opinion, demonstrates the President’s special interest in Lagos State. In line with the promise he made in Lagos during the electioneering campaign. The interest of Lagosians will always be paramount in his heart.”

Plans For The Heritage Centre

Consequently, Governor Ambode has unveiled plans to turn the erstwhile lodge to The Heritage Centre for Leadership. It will subsequently be redesigned and equipped as a landmark research and tourist arena.

According to the statement, the old Lagos State House in Marina, which is next door to the Presidential Lodge, is also being prepared for a transformation to The Lagos History Centre. This is a mark of honour to celebrate all former governors, as well as for the benefit of humankind as a whole.

The State Executive Council has already approved the Lagos House Marina to be turned into Lagos History Centre for tourism purposes.

“We will begin a process that will transform the whole area into a culture zone that every Lagosian will be proud of. These two buildings will be nurtured as world-class monuments by the Lagos State Government. It will compliment the ongoing larger plan that aims to transform the axis into a multi-sectorial culture zone.”

Furthermore. the statement revealed the Governor’s plan for Marina-Onikan culture zone. It includes a skywalk that would connect Marina all the way to the Freedom Park on Broad Street. This is in order to offer the ultimate view of the culture arcade. The  arcade will emerge between Marina and Broad Street and the entire zone to tourists and local visitors.

In addition, Governor Ambode said the axis would also accommodate a Tourist Welcome Centre. This comprises of a multi layer car park, mall, Lagos Aquarium centre and other tourist facilities.