The Nation Newspaper

Category: Grassroots

  • Agege pupils empowered with ICT

    Agege pupils empowered with ICT

    By Faith Ajiboye

    The LG Rhythm Organisation, a group committed to community development and youth empowerment, has donated a fully equipped ICT centre to State High School, Oyewole, in Agege, as part of its 2025 service initiative themed “Technology for Service to Humanity.”

    President of the Rhythm Foundation, Lanre Success, said the group has made it a tradition to conduct a community development project in every state where it marks its anniversary.

    “We have been holding our anniversary every year since 2011. Whichever state we choose as our venue, we make sure we carry out a community service project there. This year we selected Lagos State, and after assessing several schools, we decided to focus on a rural area like Agege, where there is a real need for ICT access,” he said.

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    He noted that the intervention became necessary due to the introduction of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) model by WAEC and the accelerated evolution of digital learning across academic environments.

    “These days, without ICT knowledge, one cannot compete effectively. Artificial intelligence and digital technology have taken over. That’s why we decided to provide these 20 computers to help students prepare for the future,” he aaid.

    Chairman of Empowerment Projects for 2025 at the Rhythm Foundation, Kolade Akinyemi, said the donation was a step toward closing the digital literacy gap among public-school students.

    “Many students here have never operated a computer before. They had to travel far to access one. With this facility, not only this school but three other nearby schools will benefit,” he said.

    Akinyemi also acknowledged Lafarge Africa PLC for supporting the project through its corporate social responsibility initiative.

  • We’re repositioning Coker-Aguda for greater growth, says Ogidan

    We’re repositioning Coker-Aguda for greater growth, says Ogidan

    The Chairman of Coker–Aguda Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Afeez Ogidan, has restated his administration’s commitment to transparency, inclusive development, and responsible leadership as he marked his first 100 days in office.

    Addressing journalists, community leaders, stakeholders, and residents during a briefing,  Ogidan described the milestone as an opportunity to reflect on the journey so far and renew his dedication to serving the people.

    He explained that from the first day in office, his team set out with a clear vision to rebuild trust, restore development, and reposition the LCDA for greater growth and progress.

    The council chief said his administration has implemented several transformative projects aimed at improving the physical environment and unlocking economic potential across communities.

    Among these were the filling of Umoru Primary School compound, completion of the Coker culvert and access road, and palliative works on major streets.

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    He said: “The final phase of construction on Falohun Road is ongoing, just as work continues on the new Legislative and Executive Buildings. The administration also interlocked Arumemi Street, constructed new culverts at Oja Bus Stop (Bale Road) and Adetola Road, and began building a modern boxing arena at the Femi Gbajabiamila Mini Stadium. Additionally, damaged manhole covers were replaced, rehabilitation works were carried out at LA/Central Primary School, and full asphalt resurfacing was completed on Okamba, Martins, Abiodun Ogunyawo, Koya, and Asekun Streets. The Coker–Aguda Registry also underwent total renovation and refurnishing.”

    Ogidan emphasised that these infrastructural investments were designed to last and to serve as a solid foundation for the council’s long-term development.

    In the education sector, he said his administration introduced several programmes to support learning and youth development. These included a successful Summer Coaching Programme, the hosting of the 2025 Spelling Bee Competition, support for various primary school graduation ceremonies, and the distribution of thousands of notebooks under the Back-to-School scheme.

  • Mosan-Okunola donates vehicles to police, inaugurates roads, school

    Mosan-Okunola donates vehicles to police, inaugurates roads, school

    The Chairman of Mosan-Okunola Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos, Princess Adunni Akindele, has donated four patrol vehicles to the police.

    Princess Akindele also presented two buses, and an ambulance to the local security and environmental team and a primary health centre.

    These and many more were part of activities marking Princess Akindele’s 100 days in office.

    The event was witnessed by Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, Bolaji Robert; All Progressives Congress (APC) Lagos State Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi; House of Representatives member, Ganiyu Ayuba; former House of Assembly member Bisi Yusuf; council Vice Chairman Akintola Falade and other dignitaries.

    According to Akindele, the donation was aimed at improving the operational efficiency of local security agencies and enhancing emergency medical services and healthcare access for residents.

    She said the presentation was part of her administration’s agenda on inclusive growth and security reforms, which she pledged after assuming office in July 2025.

    Akindele further said the initiative was part of a broader set of achievements within her first 100 days in office.

    “During our electioneering, we promised them a 10-point agenda and, to the glory of God, we are able to implement at least 90 per cent of our campaign,” she said.

    The LCDA boss listed some of the administration’s achievements to include the rehabilitation of three roads, including a dual carriageway of 1.5 kilometres.

    Others are, the renovation of 50 classrooms, distribution of books and bags to students, and the establishment of a sickbay room in a public school, among others.

    In health, Akindele said the staff clinic was rehabilitated and equipped with drugs, supported newborn mothers with cash gifts, and conducted community engagement focused on sensitising pregnant women on postpartum haemorrhage.

    “We also rehabilitated the Opeki Primary Healthcare Centre, and upgraded it from eight hours to 24-hour services,” he said.

    Akindele added that her administration gave out cash gifts and empowered residents through various skill acquisition programmes.

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    She promised to work more to ensure residents enjoy the dividends of democracy.

    Ojelabi praised the efforts of the 57 local government chairmen in the state, for their unprecedented developmental projects in their first 100 days in office.

    He attributed the progress to the removal of fuel subsidy, adding that it led to more funds being available to the local governments, describing it as being beneficial to the people.

    He expressed optimism that the implementation of tax reforms by the Federal Government in 2026 would further boost the funds available to the local governments to execute transformational projects.

    Yusuf praised the six local government chairmen in Alimosho for bringing the dividends of democracy to residents.

    He assured that the chairmen under his leadership would continue to focus on people-centred programmes.

    A resident, Dr Abimbola Smith, applauded the chairman’s progress, urging sustained efforts in ensuring other dilapidated roads and social amenities projects were provided to residents.

  • Ojodu empowers residents as Odunmbaku marks 100 days in office

    Ojodu empowers residents as Odunmbaku marks 100 days in office

    Chairman of Ojodu Local Council Development Area, David Olusegun Odunmbaku, has rolled out a fresh wave of economic empowerment initiatives as part of activities marking his 100 days in office.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and citizen-focused governance.

    Speaking at the commemorative event, Odunmbaku highlighted empowerment and social inclusion as key pillars of the HEYS Reloaded agenda, noting that prosperity must be accessible to all categories of residents.

    In the last 100 days, he said the council distributed tools, equipment, and vocational starter packs to artisans, market women and small business owners to boost productivity and expand local enterprises.

    According to him, no fewer than 100 nano-traders also received cash grants to strengthen their businesses.

    The council boss further announced the expansion of the THRIVE Microfinance Scheme, a zero-interest credit initiative providing soft loans to small and medium-scale entrepreneurs across the LCDA.

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    Demonstrating strong commitment to social inclusion, Odunmbaku said his administration delivered mobility aids—including wheelchairs, crutches, walking sticks, and BP monitors—to Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), ensuring they are not left behind in the development agenda.

    To support youth advancement, Odunmbaku unveiled 40 brand-new laptops for graduates of the LCDA’s Digital Skills Programme. He also announced the forthcoming launch of the OjoduWorks App, designed by the council’s ICT unit to connect artisans and service providers directly to customers within and outside the community.

    In response to the rising cost of transportation, the chairman introduced fuel vouchers for Keke Napep, Korope and Bus operators, effective from tomorrow, to cushion economic pressure on operators and commuters.

    He announced distribution of 500 health diaries and 150 reading glasses to residents as part of the social support programme.

    Odunmbaku reiterated that the empowerment drive is a continuous effort, assuring residents that more initiatives targeted at SMEs, youths, and vulnerable groups will be rolled out as the administration accelerates implementation of the HEYS Reloaded development framework.

  • Olasoju presents official vehicles to councillors

    Olasoju presents official vehicles to councillors

    Chairman of Isolo Local Council Development Area, Adebayo Olasoju, has presented official cars to the councilors in the seven political wards.

    Olasoju said the gesture was in furtherance of his administration’s commitment to enhancing legislative activities and strengthening the overall efficiency of governance at the grassroots.

    He said: “Today’s presentation which is happening barely four months into our administration is yet another testament to our unwavering commitment to ensuring that the legislature is empowered to perform their legislative and improve local government administration.

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    “Just as we remain unrelenting in spreading the dividends of democracy across the seven political wards in Isolo, we will not hesitate to explore every avenue possible to support our lawmakers, improve service delivery, and make governance more responsive to the needs of our people. This gesture is not a favour, but a duty because an empowered legislature is essential to a functional, transparent, and people-centered local government.” Leader of the house, Yusuf Oni, commended the council boss for placing premium on the lawmakers’ convenience. Oni assured Olasoju that the councillors will justify the policy by doing all within their capacity to help the council boss deliver on his electoral promises.

  • Sanwo-Olu’s aide lifts constituents with N5m loan

    Sanwo-Olu’s aide lifts constituents with N5m loan

    The Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Works, Dr. Adekunle Olayinka, has presented of N5 million Naira to members of the Cooperative and Constituents of Ifako-Ijaiye Federal Constituency. 

    Olayinka, who doubles as President of Ironu Ilu Cooperative Multipurpose, presented cheques of non-interest loans and grants amounting to N5 million to over one hundred beneficiaries, thereby reinforcing his unwavering commitment to the upliftment of individuals, families, and enterprises across the constituency. 

    He said the distribution of the loans and grants represents a strategic intervention aimed at alleviating financial burdens and poverty, stimulating entrepreneurship, and fostering sustainable livelihoods.

    “By removing the barrier of interest charges, this initiative ensures that beneficiaries can pursue their aspirations without the weight of exploitative repayment structures. This effort underscores the transformative role of cooperative societies in advancing grassroots development and bridging socio-economic gaps,” he said.

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    Secretary General of the Cooperative organisation, Olurotimi Adeleye, said the loans and grants initiative is not merely a financial gesture; it is a symbol of enduring commitment to grassroots empowerment.

    “The impact and strength of cooperative societies as vehicles for collective progress can not be over emphasised. The legacy of service that Olayinka continues to build and positions him as a beacon of hope and a custodian of community development through economic empowerment,” he said.

    A beneficiary, Mrs. Funmilayo Egbedun, who is a retiree; extolled the virtues of Olayinka.

    “He is a round peg in a round hole. He is a visionary leader who is aligning community needs with practical solutions. His unwavering devotion to the welfare of his people is unmatched,” she said.

    Mrs. Taiwo Lasisi, a trader and Mrs. Adereti Comfort, a tailor, both showed their excitement and spoke about the capacity of Olayinka to inspire hope and restore dignity to households across the constituency. 

  • Jakande announces N25m for sports fiesta

    Jakande announces N25m for sports fiesta

    • By Ummusalamoh Kamorudeen and Azeezat Adeshola

    The Chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area, Seyi Jakande, has unveiled the Season 4 Sports Fiesta,with the  theme: “Step to Sustainability.”

    He described the fiesta as a strategic platform for youths’ development, talent discovery, and sustainable community building.

    He noted that the fourth edition would be the most engaging and impactful since its inception.

    Jakande announced N25 million for the grand prize, the highest in the history of the competition.

    He emphasised that the administration views sports as “a tool for empowerment, talent discovery, and sustainable youth development.”

    “The competition will adopt a ward-based preliminary format, allowing all nine wards in the council to conduct local qualifiers before presenting their best talents for the grand finale,” he said.

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    He used the occasion to reel out several projects executed within his first 100 days. These include road rehabilitation, drainage clearing, water provision, solar installations, healthcare upgrades, free medical outreach, educational support programmes, youth ICT training, school feeding, and the construction of a five-a-side football field.

    He described these interventions as part of the council’s broader agenda to “repair, rebuild, and reinvest in the lives of our people.”

    The council boss announced the annual subsidised sales of chicken for households, Quiz and debate competitions and Bursary awards for indigent tertiary students with commendable Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA).

    Jakande urged youths to embrace discipline, passion and unity throughout the competition, adding that the fiesta aims to showcase the energy and excellence Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye is known for.

    “Together, we will build an LCDA rooted in strength, sustainability, and shared prosperity,” he said.

  • Kosofe disburses N25m to empower residents

    Kosofe disburses N25m to empower residents

    • By Kaothar Abdulateef, Mojisola Adegoke and Omowunmi Jimoh

    Kosofe Local Government has disbursed another N25 million to beneficiaries in the second phase of its ongoing N100 million empowerment scheme under the Kosofe Cares initiative and the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The programme, designed to support artisans, strengthen small and medium-scale businesses, and promote economic self-reliance, attracted beneficiaries, community leaders, market associations, youth groups, and other stakeholders.

    The Council Manager, Mrs. Mosunmola Otaiku-Okoka, expressed satisfaction with the successful continuation of the empowerment initiative.

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     She commended the council chairman for his dedication to grassroots development.

    Mrs Otaiku-Okoka urged beneficiaries to apply the funds responsibly to grow their businesses.

    The Chairman, Moyosore Ogunlewe, represented by former Secretary to the Local Government, Fatai Gbedebo, described the scheme as a strategic intervention to boost the socio-economic well-being of residents.

    He noted that the initiative has remained consistent in supporting traders and artisans who require financial assistance to expand their livelihoods.

    He announced that all beneficiaries would receive instant credit alerts to ensure immediate access to funds, adding that transparency and accountability remain central to the disbursement process.

  • Alimosho introduces monthly subsidised food market

    Alimosho introduces monthly subsidised food market

    • By Faith Ajiboye and Aishat Ahmed

    The Chairman of Alimosho Local Government, Johnson Akinpelu, has launched a monthly subsidised food market.

    This, he said, was to ease food prices on residents.

    At the launch, Akinpelu said the initiative became necessary following the widening gap between farmgate prices and what consumers pay in Lagos markets.

    He noted that although food items arrive in the state at relatively lower prices, many traders continue to sell at inflated rates.

    “We see that people bringing food from various states are selling at cheaper rates, but marketers are still selling at higher prices. With food, people gain the confidence to do other things,” he said.

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    The subsidised market, rolled out as part of the council’s first 100 days activities, offers staple items such as rice, beans, yam, garri, spaghetti, eggs and oil at 50 per cent of their regular market prices.

    According to him, the intervention targets widows, the elderly, low-income earners and other vulnerable residents in line with the council’s WISE Agenda.

    Akinpelu added that the programme will hold every month and remain a continuous welfare scheme.

    “Our people are going through tough economic situations, but this arrangement is going to continue. Once they buy and finish their purchases, they can come back again to do more”, he said.

    To ensure transparency and prevent hoarding, Akinpelu said residents are not allowed to purchase more than N20,000 worth of food items at each market day.

    He added that buyers receive invoices before making payments and proceed through designated points for verification.

    He outlined improvements recorded within his first 100 days, including the training and certification of staff across departments to enhance efficiency.

    He added that key offices, particularly the finance department which he described as the “engine room”, had been upgraded.

    “We have the ICT, Agriculture and Finance departments all seated. Finance handles money while ICT manages data collection so we can keep accurate records and plan future market days,” he said.

    Head of Agriculture and Social Services, Riliwanat Imam, said the programme was designed to cushion the hardship caused by escalating food prices.

     “It’s meant for the less privileged who cannot afford market prices. With N5,000 to N10,000, they can buy food that will sustain their families,” she said.

    A resident, Evelyn Winners, commended the council for selling food items at reduced price.

    “I bought rice, garri, bread and groundnut oil at 50 per cent off. I’m so happy. I pray our chairman continues the good work,” she said.

    She urged the council to include livestock to expand the benefits of the initiative.

  • Coker-Aguda lifts 150 expectant mothers with essential materials

    Coker-Aguda lifts 150 expectant mothers with essential materials

    The Coker-Aguda Local Council Development Area (LCDA), in partnership with the Women Hope Initiative (WHI), has distributed essential palliatives and baby care materials to over 150 expectant mothers.

    The gesture was part of activities marking the council chairman’s first 100 days in office.

    Beneficiaries received nutritious food packs, hygiene items, pregnancy essentials, and comprehensive baby gift bundles containing clothing, diapers, blankets, feeding bottles, and other newborn necessities.

    Wife of the council Chairman, Mrs. Ifelola Muyibat Ogidan, who led the distribution, described the gesture as a deliberate effort to support vulnerable families and promote maternal and child health within the LCDA.

    She reaffirmed that the well-being of expectant mothers remains a top priority for the administration.

    According to her, the initiative was designed to ease the financial pressures associated with childbirth and early childcare.

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    The council Chairman, Azeez Ogidan, took the opportunity to announce plans for expansions and upgrades at the Orile and Coker-Aguda health centres.

    He explained that the improvements are part of the council’s broader strategy to strengthen Primary Health Care (PHC) delivery and ensure residents have better access to essential medical services.

     “We are committed to enhancing the quality of healthcare available to our people. Strengthening our PHC centres will better serve mothers, children, and the wider community,” Ogidan said.

    The event also featured health talks facilitated by medical experts from the council’s clinics. Participants received guidance on prenatal care, safe delivery, postpartum health, newborn care, proper nutrition during pregnancy, and early detection of complications.

    Expressing gratitude, beneficiaries described the initiative as timely, impactful, and supportive during a crucial phase of their lives.

    The programme drew the “attendance of political leaders, legislative members, council executives, community representatives, and key stakeholders from the health sector—all united in their commitment to advancing maternal wellness in Coker-Aguda LCDA.