Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Barr. Tokunbo Wahab, has announced his withdrawal from the Lagos State Man of the Year Award (LASMAYA) 2024. In his statement on Wednesday, Barr. Wahab expressed his gratitude for the nomination and praised the distinguished company of fellow nominees, acknowledging their significant contributions and notable reputations.
Despite his appreciation for the recognition and the confidence shown in his work at the Ministry, Barr. Wahab has opted to withdraw from the nomination, requesting the public to refrain from voting for him. He emphasized his appreciation for the faith placed in his efforts but reiterated his decision to step away from the competition. This decision, he mentioned, came after careful consideration of various factors.
The Commissioner’s decision follows a publication by the Centre for Policy Development and Political Studies, which listed him among various government officials and private individuals for the LASMAYA 2024. Other nominees include Mr. Tayo Akinmade Ayinde, Chief of Staff to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Hundogan Temitope Sewanu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Lagos State, Hon. Rasaq Olusola Ajala, Executive Chairman, Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos State, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), and Prof. Adetokunbo Fabamwo, Chief Medical Director, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).
The list also includes prominent private sector individuals such as Chief (Dr.) Leemon Ikpea, OON, Executive Chairman, Lee Engineering Group and Allied Companies Ltd., Mr. Lamina Olatoye Rasheed, Chairman/Executive Officer, Amex Fishing Industries Limited, and President, Association of Indigenous Seafood Stakeholders of Nigeria, Ademola Adeyemi-Bero, Managing Director/CEO, FIRST E&P, and Engr. ‘Kunmi Ayodeji, Managing Director, TOPEK Engineering and Consultancy Services Ltd. These nominees were recognized for their exemplary contributions to their respective fields.
The organisers of LASMAYA, now in its twelfth edition, have encouraged public participation in the poll, which will be conducted via Short Message Services (SMS) starting Monday, 15th July 2024. They maintain that the award is a credible initiative aimed at recognizing and celebrating excellence, designed to identify and project genuine role models in Lagos State. The award aims to pay tribute to outstanding individuals who have made significant impacts in the State of Centre of Excellence.
