Lagos investigates gas plant explosion, may review 2020 budget

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has taken urgent action following the tragic gas plant explosion that caused loss of lives and extensive damage to properties in the state. Sanwo-Olu has set up a fact-finding committee to investigate the incident and assess the immediate and remote costs associated with the explosion. The committee, which is multi-government and multi-sectoral, will be chaired by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri of Femme Hamzat. Other key members of the committee include the Commissioners for special duties, education, finance, and environment, as well as representatives from various government agencies such as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA). In addition to the fact-finding committee, Governor Sanwo-Olu has established a two billion Naira emergency relief fund to provide assistance to those affected by the tragedy. The state government has already contributed 250 million Naira to the fund and is working with three banks to facilitate donations from the public and private sector. The goal of the relief fund is to mobilize resources beyond what the state government can provide on its own, with the aim of supporting the community in its recovery process. Furthermore, Governor Sanwo-Olu has recognized the need for additional financial support from the federal government due to the unprecedented nature of the tragedy. He plans to meet with the President to discuss the situation and seek assistance in addressing the widespread destruction caused by the explosion. Sanwo-Olu also mentioned the possibility of adjusting the state's 2020 budget to allocate funds for emergency response and recovery efforts. As the investigation into the gas plant explosion unfolds, the people of Lagos are coming together to support one another during this difficult time. The establishment of the fact-finding committee and the emergency relief fund are critical steps in addressing the immediate needs of the community and laying the groundwork for long-term recovery and prevention of future disasters.