The Nation Newspaper

Category: Grassroots

  • Ikoyi-Obalende, stakeholders meet on budget

    Ikoyi-Obalende, stakeholders meet on budget

    By Mojisola Adegoke, Hamdalat Jimoh, Mariam Rabiu

    The Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Bola Oladunjoye, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development.

    He made this known during the 2026 Budget Stakeholders’ Meeting held at the council sectetariat, Obalende.

    Oladunjoye described the meeting as an important platform to strengthen collaboration between government and residents, as well as to ensure transparency, accountability, and people-driven decision-making in the budgeting process.

    He explained that the purpose of the forum was fourfold — to gather input and feedback from stakeholders on priority needs for the 2026 fiscal year, ensure transparency in the budgeting process, facilitate effective communication between government and the public, and identify critical needs such as infrastructure, social services, and economic opportunities for inclusion in the new budget.

     “We are a government of the people, and we value the input of our people in the administration. Our open-door policy is evident in today’s event, where we seek direct input from you in developing an inclusive budget for the 2026 fiscal year. We want to know your priorities, not what we think you need,” he said.

    The council boss emphasised that his administration is guided by the principle of participatory governance, where the people’s voices determine the focus of government actions. He urged residents to actively participate in the consultative forum, noting that democracy thrives when citizens take ownership of governance.

    “This government is your government. It is what you say we should do that we will do. As citizens, you have the power to steer the ship of governance in the direction that you want it to go,” he noted.

    Highlighting the council’s achievements, the chairman listed the ongoing rehabilitation of Lugard Avenue, which is 90 percent completed, and the reconstruction of Polo Club Road, Ikoyi, which has already commenced with a groundbreaking ceremony.

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    He also noted that the administration had intensified efforts to boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) through efficient, transparent, and accountable measures. These include branding of revenue officers, purchase of revenue buses, introduction of an electronic billing and payment system, and a comprehensive enumeration of all revenue sources within the council.

    On security, Oladunjoye commended residents and security agencies for their cooperation and vigilance in maintaining peace and reducing crime rates within the council area.

    He further reiterated the council’s “Zero Tolerance” policy for environmental infractions, stating that Street Marshals have been deployed to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

    While assuring residents of continued delivery of people-oriented projects, the council boss appealed to all ratepayers to fulfill their civic obligations, stressing that prompt payment of levies and dues is vital to sustaining developmental efforts.

    “Your contributions are crucial to our community’s growth and development. Together, we can build a better Ikoyi-Obalende,” he said.

  • Iba sensitises stakeholders on indiscriminate dumping of refuse

    Iba sensitises stakeholders on indiscriminate dumping of refuse

    In a renewed effort to tackle the menace of indiscriminate refuse dumping, the Chairman of Iba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Jubril Yisa, has convened a stakeholders’ meeting to address the growing environmental challenge within the council area.

    The meeting, held at the council secretariat, brought together community leaders, traditional rulers, and environmental stakeholders to deliberate on practical solutions to the persistent dumping of refuse on roadsides, open spaces, and other unauthorised locations across Iba LCDA.

    Yisa expressed deep concern over the rampant disregard for environmental regulations, describing the act as unacceptable and detrimental to public health.

    He urged stakeholders to sensitise residents on the importance of proper waste disposal, warning that the council will no longer tolerate environmental infractions.

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    “Government will not condone indiscriminate dumping of refuse in unauthorised places. We all have a role to play in maintaining a clean and healthy environment, and violators will henceforth face appropriate sanctions,” the chairman stated.

    Head of Environmental and Health Services of the LCDA,  Motorola Adeoye, emphasised that improper waste disposal remains one of the leading causes of blocked drainages, flooding, and the spread of communicable diseases in the area.

    She noted that the gathering was designed not only to raise awareness but also to engage stakeholders in finding sustainable strategies to ensure cleaner and healthier communities within Iba.

    The interactive session provided a platform for participants to share insights, propose workable solutions, and strengthen community collaboration in enforcing environmental sanitation laws.

    Present at the meeting were the Vice Chairman, Ayodele Samuel Thomas; Leader of the Sixth Legislative Chamber, Mustapha Hassan; other legislative members; the Council Manager, Olufemi Babalola; Baales, and several other dignitaries.

    The council reiterated its commitment to promoting environmental cleanliness and urged residents to embrace responsible waste management practices for the overall well-being of the community.

  • Council introduces safety programmes for girl-child

    Council introduces safety programmes for girl-child

    The Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Adetola Abubakar, has launched Project S.H.E, aimed at promoting the “Safety, Hygiene, and Education” of the girl-child in the council area.

    The initiative was part of activities marking the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.

    Speaking at the launch, Abubakar said the project was conceived to safeguard the rights and well-being of young girls and empower them to reach their full potential.

    “Every girl is potentially a game changer, a change leader, and a world changer. Through Project S.H.E, we will protect, empower, and educate our girls to rise and lead positive change in their schools and communities,” she said.

    She said the initiative is built on three key pillars; Safety, Hygiene, and Education.

    The council boss, who described herself as a “senior girl-child,” reaffirmed her personal commitment to protecting girls in the community.

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    “Anyone that abuses a child in Agboyi-Ketu will have me to contend with. I will personally give our girls a direct phone line to reach me if anyone attempts to molest or mistreat them,” she said.

    She announced the council’s plan to commence the monthly distribution of sanitary pads, bathing soaps, washing soaps, and tissues to girls who have reached puberty, alongside the provision of educational materials to aid their learning.

    Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, represented by Fisayo Amole, urged the pupils to speak up against abuse and emphasised the importance of consent, body autonomy, and communication with trusted adults.

    “No girl should suffer in silence. Report any form of abuse to the DSVA for immediate intervention,” she said.

  • Rosiji kicks-off free medical outreach for Ojokoro residents

    Rosiji kicks-off free medical outreach for Ojokoro residents

    The Chairman of Ojokoro Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Oluyemisi Rosiji, has commenced Free Medical Outreach for the residents at the council secretariat, Lagos.

    The event, attended by councillors, management staff, community leaders, and a large number of residents, was in collaboration with the Lions Club International Foundation (LCIF) and the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

    Rosiji expressed deep appreciation to the Lions Club International Foundation and LASUTH for their partnership and commitment to improving community health.

    She noted that the collaboration reflects the importance of synergy between government and organisations in building a stronger and healthier society.

    According to her, when government institutions and private organisations work together, the result is improved access to essential services and a more inclusive community.

    The outreach focuses primarily on eye care, offering free eye screening, surgeries, and the provision of eyeglasses. The initiative, she explained, is designed to restore sight and hope to residents, particularly the elderly and less privileged members of the community.

    The council boss urged beneficiaries to take advantage of the programme and maintain healthy habits, emphasizing that good health is a vital foundation for productivity and community development.

    Rosiji also used the opportunity to highlight some of the key projects and programmes being implemented under her administration.

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    These include the Back-to-School Initiative; road projects; cash palliatives to support the elderly; enhanced environmental sanitation practices that have earned commendation from the state government; human capital development through ICT, vocational, and adult literacy training; a financial literacy program designed to equip youths and artisans with business management skills; and the Light-Up Ojokoro Project, which involves the installation of streetlights to boost security and beautify the community.

    She reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to building a healthy, safe, and prosperous Ojokoro, stressing that her focus remains on sustainable community growth and welfare.

    She hailed the medical professionals and volunteers for their dedication and service to humanity, while also encouraging residents to continue supporting the council’s efforts to improve their quality of life.

    Many beneficiaries lauded Rosiji for bringing the programme to their doorsteps, describing it as a life-changing opportunity.

  • Jakande launches school feeding programe

    Jakande launches school feeding programe

    By Azeezat Adeshola

    The Chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Seyi Jakande, has unveiled a new school feeding initiative tagged “Jako Jollof “aimed at improving pupils’ nutrition, boosting attendance, and empowering local food vendors within the community.

    Speaking at the event, the council boss said the initiative aligns with his administration’s A1 agenda, which focuses on health, education, empowerment, security, agriculture, and tourism.

    He described the launch as “a significant milestone” in the council’s journey to nurture young minds and build a brighter future.

    He explained that the program is not only aimed at encouraging attendance but also at providing economic relief for parents and empowerment opportunities for community members.

    “We introduced Jako Jollof to ensure that our pupils enjoy free, quality meals every Friday during school hours. Friday was deliberately chosen because it’s the day we record the lowest attendance. We believe this program will draw more pupils to school even if it’s just did their favorite Jollof rice,” Jakande said.                                   

    According to him, the programme will cater to over 5,000 pupils weekly, with meals prepared and served by local food vendors who have been screened and approved by the council’s health and education departments.

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    “This program serves many purposes, giving our children nutritious food, empowering residents, and saving parents the cost of daily lunch money,” he said.

    According to him, the Back-to-school program, where each pupil received a school bag, books, and a lunch box is to encourage full participation in the feeding initiative.

    “We made sure every student personally received their school materials. Those who are yet to collect their lunch boxes will get them by the end of today,” he said.

    Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Mushin and Odi-Olowo branches, Onikosi Fatai, commended Jakande for his vision and commitment to education.

    “This initiative is a commendable one with multiple positive effects. It will encourage pupils to return to school, reduce parents’ burden, create job opportunities for food vendors, and improve the health and attentiveness of our pupils,” he said.

    A vendor, Mrs Nasirat Idowu, expressed gratitude to the chairman for empowering community members.

    “We thank the chairman for being a caring and supportive leader. Through this program, we the school food vendors have been empowered, and our pupils are happier.  May God continue to lift him up,” she said.

  • Epe LG unveils N10m business grants for vulnerable youths

    Epe LG unveils N10m business grants for vulnerable youths

    No fewer than 100 Epe residents selected across the eight (8) wards areas of the council will have access to N100,000 grants, payable monthly for over a 20-month period, as part of a strategic welfare scheme designed to boost household income and support micro-businesses.

     The Chairperson of Epe Local Government Council Area of Lagos State, Princess Surah Animashaun, made this known during the flag-off of the programme at the council secretariat, Ita-Marun, Epe, saying scheme was designed to give a lifting hand to many of the poorest and vulnerable citizens in the council area of Lagos state.

     She reaffirmed her vision of building a self-sustaining and prosperous Epe where every resident, regardless of social or economic status, can thrive, noting that the grant was expected to increase the income and productive assets of target beneficiaries, admonishing them to make good use of it.

     “I hope that the beneficiaries will use this opportunity to increase their income, enhance their food security, and contribute towards improving their family’s livelihood. This grant will go a long way in supporting any serious woman to start a business. What is most important is how judiciously you utilise the money.

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     “This administration believes that true governance is not measured by the number of roads we constructed, but by the number of lives we have positively transformed and touched.

     “Today’s empowerment is not just a handout; it is a hand up, a push towards self-dependence, dignity, and renewed hope,” Animashaun said.

     She further emphasised that the programme aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which, according to her, seeks to strengthen the nation’s social safety nets and empower grassroots citizens for sustainable economic growth.

     The Chairperson also distributed sewing machines, hairdryers, grinding machines, fishing nets, and safety jackets, in addition to the cash grants, she further empowered residents with tools to sustain livelihoods and promote self-reliance across communities in Epe.

     Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Fatai Oyesanya and Mrs. Funmilayo Oreagba thanked the Chairperson for deeming it fit to give them the grants, noting that the Chairman had done so much for them, through some intervention schemes, promising to ensure good use of the grant to enhance their livings.

  • Indiscriminate refuse disposal to attract N100,000 fine, says Agbaje

    Indiscriminate refuse disposal to attract N100,000 fine, says Agbaje

    • By Sherifdeen Amusa

    The Chairman of Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lukmon Agbaje, has announced that indiscriminate disposal of refuse on roads and medians within the council now attract N100,000 fine or one month community service.

    Agbaje said this at the “Stakeholders’ Forum and Inauguration of Task Force on Indiscriminate Dumping of Refuse in Black Spots and Road Medians,” held at the Council Secretariat.

    “This initiative marks yet another bold step in our administration’s commitment to creating a clean, safe, and healthy environment for the people of Ayobo-Ipaja. We recognise that cleanliness is not just a responsibility but a collective duty that speaks to the quality of life and dignity of every resident,” he said.

    He said that the Task force which will work with community-based associations to enforce compliance, operate with transparency and without fear or favour.

    He said: “This Task force is not established to harass or intimidate our people. Rather, it is to enforce compliance with laid-down rules, protect the environment, and safeguard public health. At the same time, it will work hand-in-hand with community leaders, youth groups, and residents’ associations to intensify sensitisation on proper waste disposal methods. It shall operate with transparency, and expected to uphold integrity, avoid corruption, and discharge their duties without fear or favour.”

    He urged residents to support his administration’s effort in having a cleaner environment, adding that the responsibility lies on the shoulders of all stakeholders not the government alone.

    The Environmental Health Officer, Mrs Racheal Babajide, bemoaned the menace of accumulated refuse littered around roads.

    She urged those present at the occasion to tell others of the new laws.

    Chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC), Ayobo-Ipaja, Joseph Olokede, while commending the initiative, lamented the unwillingness of residents to adhere to proper disposal of waste in the council.

    He said proper disposal of waste will prevent communicable diseases in the council.

    He pleaded with the PSP operators to ensure timely collection of waste to avoid a situation where people would claim that their inefficiency led them to engaging in indiscriminate refuse disposal.

  • Badagry celebrates World Tourism Day

    Badagry celebrates World Tourism Day

    Badagry West Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has marked 2025 World Tourism Day with colourful displays of tradition, dance and cuisine.

    The celebration, held in line with the global theme of promoting cultural heritage through tourism, drew communities across the LCDA, as clans and villages showcased their rich traditions.

    Chairman of the LCDA, Rauf Kayode, praised the cultural heritage of the people of Badagry West, noting that tourism remained a vital channel for boosting the local economy and projecting the area on the global stage.

    He said: “Badagry West is one of the best places for tourism potential and cultural tourism. Our land is blessed with rich culture, history and hospitality, and we remain committed to showcasing these treasures to the world, while creating opportunities for our people.”

    Rauf expressed gratitude to dignitaries and guests, whose presence added weight to the occasion.

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    Dr Olaide Mesewaku, a tourism expert, highlighted the untapped opportunities in Badagry’s tourism sector; urging stakeholders ‘’to harness these resources for economic empowerment and growth.’’

    The Planning Committee Chairman, Zosu Solomon, reaffirmed Badagry West’s identity as a global tourism hub, citing historical treasures such as Boglo Cenotaph, Mystical Ule River, European Settlement at Apa, Suntan Beach and others.

    He said tourism was more than a leisure, noting that it was a tool for transformation and cultural preservation.

    He added: “Beyond today’s celebration, we look forward to institutionalising major festivals such as Sanpintin Festival and Badagry West Zangbeto Festival, among others, as platforms to further project our heritage and transform tourism into a true driver of development.”

  • Environmental challenges: Apapa-Iganmu Local council to recruit workers, others

    Environmental challenges: Apapa-Iganmu Local council to recruit workers, others

    By Faith Ajiboye and Ahmed Aishat

    The Chairman of Apapa-Iganmu Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Jimoh Saliu, has unveiled plans to tackle environmental challenges in the council.

    Speaking during a Stakeholders’ Meeting held at the council’s Secretariat, Saliu said the council was set to recruit street sweepers and enforce anti-grazing laws, amongst others to tackle environmental challenges.

    “As part of the renewed effort, the council will distribute over 12,000 waste nylon bags to households and conduct a general street-clearing exercise to improve environmental cleanliness,” he said

    He said the existing street sweepers were not enough, thus, necessitating the recruitment of more sweepers to enhance street cleaning across the council.

    He lamented that unrestricted movement of animals makes the environment dirty, noting that such practices must stop.

    “I have told people that ruminant animals like cows should be kept in safe places and not allowed to roam around because their droppings make our surroundings dirty,” he said.

    He lamented the persistent waste disposal challenges and poor sanitation affecting several communities.

    He urged residents to pay the necessary fee, warning that anyone caught violating the sanitation laws would face the wrath of the law.

    “Residents must cooperate by paying their waste levies to support the waste disposal vans. Anyone who fails to comply with environmental sanitation rules will face the full wrath of the law. Everyone is equal under the law,” he added.

    The Director of Environmental Services, Matthew Aganano, said that the council’s main strategy involves engaging directly with community members to encourage proper waste management.

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    “We organised this meeting to sensitise residents on the benefits of maintaining a clean environment and to promote cooperation with LAWMA-approved PSP operators. This will improve the aesthetic value of our surroundings and ensure we live in a healthy environment,” Matthew said.

    He, however, lamented that some residents refuse to pay for waste collection, while area boys often obstruct PSP operators.

    He assured that inefficient operators would be reported to LAWMA for replacement and urged residents to embrace recycling and waste sorting, emphasising that “waste is no longer just waste — it can generate income.”

    Leader of the House, Adigun Haruna, noted that the meeting was aimed at fostering collaboration between the government, PSP operators, and residents.

    “Cleanliness is next to godliness. Our people must understand that dumping refuse in unauthorised places is dangerous to health. We must all play our part in keeping our surroundings clean,” he said.

    A community leader, Shade Akinbusoye, while calling for more public enlightenment on proper waste disposal, lamented irregular waste collection in some areas.

    “Public awareness is not sufficient. More sensitisation should be done about waste management. As a community leader and landlady, I am willing to participate in any initiative that promotes cleanliness,” she said.

     She, however, complained about irregular waste collection in areas such as Karimokweluyeru, Ajowa, Aisha, and parts of Obale, where PSP operators rarely visit despite demanding payment.

    Another community leader, Ojo Afolabi, described the current state of waste management in the LCDA as “nothing to write home about.”

    He commended the council chairman for organising the meeting and urged residents to desist from patronising illegal cart pushers who dump waste in canals.

    “With this awareness, I believe there will be improvement within the LCDA. Cleanliness is next to godliness,” Afolabi said.

  • No dream too big to achieve, says Olasoju

    No dream too big to achieve, says Olasoju

    Isolo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Chairman Adebayo Olasoju, has inspired youngsters at a career and lifestyle development program organised by Promasidor Nigeria Limited.

    The event, tagged ‘Harness Your Dream’, is aimed at providing robust guidance and mentorship for young individuals.

    The event had in attendance the management of Promasidor Nigeria Limited led by the Managing Director, Mr. Francois Gillet among other notable individuals.

    As one of the guest speakers at the event, held at the Multipurpose Hall of Oshodi-Isolo, Olasoju emphasized the importance of self-discovery and self-belief for future leaders, urging the participants all of whom are Junior Secondary School (JSS) 3 pupils selected across public schools to identify their passions and set goals in life.

    Sharing his personal experiences and political trajectory, Olasoju advised them never to let their background or circumstances limit their imagination or aspirations, stressing that no dream is too big or too small to achieve.

    Highlighting education as a major pathway to a bright future, the council boss urged the youngsters to remain focused on their studies and strive for excellence in their examinations, assuring them that diligence and discipline always yield lasting rewards.

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    “Your journey to greatness in life begins with self-discovery and believes in your capabilities. Set ambitious goals starting with your academics by coming out with flying colors. As a government, we are doing all we can to support your educational pursuit and we won’t spare any expense. Tertiary education has been made a lot easier. The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), an initiative of the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government is there for you take advantage of. The onus is on you to make every investment made by government, your parents and even Promasidor; our host today, count as it’s our desire to see you become great in life,” Olasoju said.

    The council boss referenced some individuals who are doing well for themselves as he urged the pupils to take a cue from their success stories as motivation.

    He thanked Promasidor for the laudable initiative, noting that the event aligns with his administration’s robust educational policy.