The Lagos State Government in collaboration with Association Of Town Planning Consultants Of Nigeria (ATOPCON) has bestowed the prestigious “Outstanding Liveable Neighbourhood Award” on Abimbola Awoliyi Estate, Oko-Oba, Abule Egba, (Lagos West Senatorial District).
The award was presented to the Estate on Monday as part of events marking the occasion of the 2021 World Habitation Day.
Speaking on the feat exclusively to Newsclickng.com via a telephone conversion on Tuesday, chairman of the Abimbola Awoliyi Estate Residents Association (AAERA), Alhaji Lenuwa said the attainment of the milestone was due to years of painstaking efforts by past executives of the association and most importantly the unwavering cooperation of the residents at all times.
“The is not a personal achievement. It is our first award but attained through collaborative efforts set in motion by past executives of the association and members in particular. If the members do not adhere to laid down rules in the estate, it is possible that we won’t have won this award,” he said.
Speaking on some of the unique qualities that may have set the association apart from other estates that put in for the award in the Lagos West Senatorial district, Alhaji Lenuwa said: “Members of the estate know the rules and adhere strictly without being coerced. We maintain our roads, put off the generator by 12 am, one side parking. Visitors are not allowed in until they are properly screened and make a phone conversation with the resident they are going to meet at the entrance/security post. We also gather and dispose our waste as one and make payment in same format.”
Advising other estates in the neighbourhood and state at large, the chairman said results like recognition and awards are bound to overflow in communities, estates and streets where there is cooperation and unity. He said residents must endeavour to cooperate with executives of the association while the executives in turn ensure accountability and integrity.
Newsclickng.com reports that the estate was named in honour of the first woman to practise as a physician in Nigeria, Chief (Dr) Elizabeth Abimbola Awoliyi, MBE, OFR (née Akerele, 1910–14 September 1971).
