- Ambode Inaugurates J.K Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History
Governor Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday said his administration was making strategic efforts to transform Onikan-Marina axis into a world-class tourism hub that would restore the lost glory of Lagos Island.
Ambode said this at the foundation laying ceremony of the J.K Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Onikan, Lagos.
According to the governor, the Centre was part of a grand plan by his administration to turn the Onikan axis into a critical tourist hub, not just in the country but on the continent.
The centre, originally built in 1928, was one of the centres that provided avenues for recreation and entertainment but has fallen into disrepair. The Lagos State Government has, however, began moves to redevelop it.
Speaking during the ground-breaking ceremony of the new J. K. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Ambode said, “In recent times, the centre has become redundant serving uses other than those for which it was built before falling to great neglect and disrepair. As a result, the Lagos State Government decided to redevelop the Centre.
“In the past, the Centre provided recreational services to the Lagos populace but the new J. K. Randle Centre will do a lot more.”
The new centre, when finished, will consist of an exhibition centre, a library, a multi-purpose hall, learning spaces, restaurant and lounges. The centre will also retain its swimming pool and sports facilities as well as a pavilion for stage performances.
Other projects the Lagos Government has also embarked on include the Eko Park which will comprise of the Lagos Heritage Centre for Leadership at the former Presidential Lodge Marina; the Lagos History Center at the former State House Marina; a Lagos Museum; the erection of a 55-feet Eyo Statue at the Lagos History Centre; the upgrading of the Onikan Stadium to a standard sports arena, regeneration of CMS Marina and Multi-Layer Car Parks around Onikan.
“All these will serve as a catalyst for the rest of the regeneration of Lagos Island, restoring it to its former glory, while reinforcing the position of Lagos State as one of the world’s most vibrant, cosmopolitan and exciting places to experience,” he said.
