The Federal Government (FG) on Thursday handed over the Presidential Lodge, Marina, to the Lagos State Government.
In fulfillment of the promise of President Muhammadu Buhari to entrust the edifice to the State for tourism development.
Permanent Secretary, State House Marina, Mr. Jalal Arabi ,and Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Tunji Bello signed a memorandum of understanding for the formal handover of the lodge.
The lodge, a pre-independence structure, is one of the federal government’s property in Lagos that are allegedly not being fully utilised.
Speaking at the ceremony, Secretary to the State Government, Tunji Bello, who led the State officials including members of the State Executive Council, promised that the State Government would not compromise its structural integrity while preserving the architectural finesse and beauty.
Bello also assured that the administration of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode would ensure the edifice becomes a tourist destination.
Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary, State House, Abuja, Jalal Arabi, described the occasion as a solemn one because of the emotional attachment that most of the staff have towards the complex.
Arabi, who said they are happy it was a smooth transition process, explained that the several months of perfecting the transfer of the ownership was a family discussion which was devoid of any bitter feelings
