The Lagos State Government, on Tuesday, donated a fiber speed boat and fish smoking kiln to women in the Badagry area of the state.
Dr Lola Akande, Commissioner, Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, who presented the items, said that the boat would improve water transport for women in Badagry. The donation took place at the Pathfinder Jetty, Marina, Badagry.
Akande said: ”“Badagry is a riverine area, and most women especially market women, transport their goods through the waterway; so, the boat is to ensure that the goods arrive in time at their destinations.
”“The boat is faster than the locally made ones; so, this will ensure timely arrival of goods for people in Badagry, particularly those that ply routes across the riverine area.
“”I want to use this opportunity to advise people to always make use of a life jacket while on a boat, as this will ensure safety in rare cases of a boat mishap.
“”The state government is committed in ensuring that lives of the people are safe, but we cannot do that alone; we need everyone to complement our efforts.”
Akande said that the smoking kiln would aid fish vendors in the ancient city.
“”Smoking kilns are used in the flavouring and preservation of fish; so, we are giving this to boost the fish market in the city.
“”A lot of women engage in fish business; we believe that the smoking kiln will help in boosting their businesses and maximising their profits,” she said.
She urged the people to support the state government by paying their taxes.
Mr Segun Onilude, Chairman, Badagry Local Government, said that the gesture would boost economic activities in the city.
He urged the residents to keep their environment clean by dumping refuse at the approved sites.
Mrs Mausi Segla, a fish seller, expressed gratitude to the state government for the donation.
She said that the smoking kiln would boost her fish business.
”“I am glad about this; it will help in making my fish business to thrive,” she said.
The boat and the kiln will be managed by the Badagry Local Government.
