Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu inaugurated a new public recreational park in Lagos State’s Ketu area on Saturday, with the facility symbolizing the commercial city’s constant desire for enduring harmony.
Peace Park is made up of three uniquely designed gardens with interconnecting walkways and is strategically located at the intersection of Ikorodu Road and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Agboyi Ketu axis. The park covers an area of 25,700 square meters and features both soft and hard landscaping elements.
The recreation ground, designed by the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK), provides a welcoming aesthetic and a relaxing ambience for leisure. It is located on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, directly across from the M.K.O Abiola Garden, and is easily accessible to visitors.
The Peace Park, according to Sanwo-Olu, represents a new era of harmony in the State, symbolizing the collective spirit of law-abiding Lagosians working every day to promote peace and progress.
The Governor stated that the park was inspired by his desire to heal the wounds of the past and commit the government to the trust of the young people in upholding their dreams and aspirations.
“We promised less than a year ago that we would build this Peace Park, which would be a place that would bring all of us together,” he said. This project was designed to serve as a symbol of our shared unity, diversity, and sense of equity as residents of this state. We are here today to dedicate the facility to the public, and this is yet another example of how, when we make a promise, we keep it.
“This recreation area is for our youth, who will use it not only as a gathering place for various life-changing activities, but also as a symbol of unity and peaceful coexistence.” Our youth should see this park as a way for the government to identify with them and use it as a platform to support their goals and interests. This is why we named the park ‘Peace,’ because we believe there is nothing that cannot be accomplished in a peaceful and tranquil environment.”
Sanwo-Olu stated that the beautification project was part of his administration’s elaborate urban renewal plan, emphasizing that the development was complemented by the rehabilitation of major roads in the area.
The Governor vowed to improve the residents’ quality of life by launching projects that would have a direct impact on their livelihoods. He stated that the recently launched 30-year development plan is intended for youth to benefit from the opportunities outlined in the document.
He challenged young people to use the facility responsibly and to maintain the infrastructure put in place to make the park welcoming to visitors.
“This is yet another demonstration of our dedication to the well-being of our residents, particularly young people.” This project is significant, and it should be viewed as proof that we are a government that listens to people’s expectations; a government that cares about what the youth want and what will benefit them. “We will always be ready to listen and collaborate with our youths to ensure that peace reigns in Lagos,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Hon. Tunji Bello, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, stated that the park’s master plan concept was a unique vision that incorporated scenic landscapes, recreational facilities for children and adults, plants and trees to facilitate community engagement and social interactions.
The project, according to Bello, is “another landmark achievement” of the current administration in terms of improving the well-being of Lagosians and leaving a suitable environment to the State in line with the Government’s T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda.
Comrade Biliamin Oba, Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in Lagos, praised the Governor for prioritizing youth development and inclusion in government programs.
“We are all witnesses to the Sanwo-Olu administration’s projects and programs aimed at the youth constituency,” Oba said. This is yet another initiative to harness our energy and promote peace in Lagos. Many youths benefited from the State Government’s Agric YES programs, and the Ministry of Wealth Creation is creating job opportunities for us through MSMEs support grants.
“Many in the youth community have benefited from the State’s vocational training program, and the Governor is working hard to improve the appearance of our youth centers.” We are using this medium to thank and commend the Governor for following through on his promise to build this Peace Park. We respond by pledging that the youth constituency will always support such initiatives and work for peace.”
Mrs. Ade Popoola, General Manager of LASPARK, listed the park’s attractive ornaments as neatly arranged decorative plants, various species of trees, monuments including an iconic Lagos chair, an art mural wall, restrooms, and a secure parking area. The facility also has a security post.