The Nation Newspaper

Category: Grassroots

  • Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye honours councillor

    Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye honours councillor

    The Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has held a special plenary to honour the late Councillor Zainab Shotayo, who died on August 18.

    At the session, council members and party leaders paid glowing tributes to the deceased, describing her as a committed representative and a voice for the people.

    Chairman of the council, Seyi Jakande, described Shotayo as a passionate advocate for her constituents and an active participant in addressing community challenges.

    He commiserated with the Shotayo/Kosoko family and prayed for strength to bear the loss.

    He urged members to honour her memory through collective progress.

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    Leader of the House, Lekan Adeyi, said the late councillor’s legacy was firmly rooted in the community.

    Deputy Leader, Haruna Adeosun, said her passing had left an indelible void.

    Majority Leader, Lukman Akinniyi, recalled their close friendship, adding that her spirit would continue to resonate in the council. Other members, including Deputy Majority Leader, Bode Adeosun; Taye Alakan; Ipaye Ibrahim; and Adisa Rahman, also shared touching remarks on her impact.

    The council resolved to sustain her vision for a better community.

    Political leaders, among them Council Party Chairman, Ismail Babatunde (TUNKAZ); Secretary, M.A. Olaniyan; and Yaya Mustapha, also joined to honour the deceased.

  • Yaba lifts residents with financial grants, free GCE forms

    Yaba lifts residents with financial grants, free GCE forms

    The Chairman of Yaba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Bayo Adefuye, has empowered 400 individuals with financial grants and GCE forms.

    He said the grants and the form is to improve their livelihood.

    Adefuye said the initiative aims to alleviate poverty and promote economic growth.

    About 200 students received free GCE forms while other 200 people received N250,000 each as financial grants.

    He affirmed his dedication to easing the people’s socio-economic situation, promising that such programs will continue.

    He reiterated his dedication to the well-being of Yaba residents.

    Speaking on the mode of selection, he said it involved different organizations, men and women, youth bodies, community development associations and residents.

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    Adefuye urged beneficiaries to utilize the resources to grow businesses, create jobs, and contribute to the community’s economic growth. He added that all groups were given slots to promote equity and transparency.

    On the free GCE forms, Adefuye said the gesture aimed to empower young scholars who have demonstrated academic excellence and a passion for learning despite financial challenges.

    The council boss emphasized the importance of education in unlocking the potential of youths and transforming the community.

    He said: “As we present these forms, we are not only investing in the future of our students; we are investing in the future of our community. We are building a generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape the destiny of our nation.

    “Every child deserves access to quality education, regardless of their background or financial situation. The GCE forms represent more than just a piece of paper; they symbolize hope, opportunity, and a chance to succeed”, he stated.

    The Council Manager, Hakeem Disu, lauded the council boss for his efforts in ensuring the greatness of the community.

    Disu urged the students to stay focused.

    Some of the beneficiaries commended Adefuye’s gesture.

  • Olusi names council secretariat in Oba Akiolu’s honour

    Olusi names council secretariat in Oba Akiolu’s honour

    • By Busola Akinyoade  

    In a major infrastructural milestone for Lagos Island, the former Chairman of Lagos Island Local Government, Adetoyese Tijani Olusi, has opened an administrative building in honour of the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu.

    The event, held at the council secretariat, drew political leaders, traditional rulers, market leaders, and party faithful from across the state. The edifice was described as a legacy project marking the peak of Olusi’s two-term administration.

    “I warmly welcome you all to this auspicious occasion — the official commissioning of the administrative building,” Olusi said in his address. “The journey of this administration began eight years ago. Today, by the special grace of God Almighty, this vision has become a reality.”

    Olusi noted that he had made it a priority to consolidate his administration’s developmental efforts with the construction of a befitting council secretariat before the end of his tenure. According to him, the project reflects the government’s commitment to human and social development within Lagos Island.

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    He added that naming the structure after the revered monarch, Oba Akiolu was a deliberate act of recognition for the king’s enduring contribution to peace, stability, and political growth in Lagos State.

    “Oba Rilwan Akiolu is a royal father whose impact on Lagos Island is unmatched. This building is a landmark to honour and immortalise his name,” Olusi said.

    Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Moshood Mayegun, commended Olusi for his developmental strides and addressed party members on the need for sustained political engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections. “This is a laudable achievement. The leadership before him has done well, and he has built on that foundation,” Mayegun said.

    He praised the resilience of party supporters during the last local government elections and urged them to remain steadfast ahead of future polls.

    “There is no doubt that the person who takes the mantle after our brother will continue the struggle for victory in 2027,” he added. “It is mandatory for us to win Lagos and to win the presidential election.”

    Mayegun also highlighted the importance of continuous voter registration and mobilisation, pointing out that the APC-led federal administration had significantly increased local government allocations, enabling impactful projects like the one being commissioned. “Without our president, we wouldn’t have this level of support. With more funds available, we’re seeing the execution of meaningful projects. Come 2027, we appeal to everyone: go out and vote for our candidate,” he concluded.

    The event was attended by traditional leaders, council officials, religious leaders, and community stakeholders who described the development as a new chapter in the council’s administrative excellence.

  • Council seeks monthly prayers for Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu

    Council seeks monthly prayers for Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu

    The Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has called on the Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ikeja Chapter, to initiate a monthly prayer meeting dedicated to the peace, progress, and leadership of Nigeria.

    Speaking during a visit by the religious body to his office at Ikeja House, Dauda specifically urged that the prayers be focused on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and Member of the House of Representatives, James Abiodun Faleke.

    He recalled that the historic 2023 presidential victory of President Tinubu had its spiritual roots in the massive interdenominational prayer rally organised by Faleke at the LTV 8 Blueroof in Ikeja.

    “That prayer laid the foundation for divine intervention and national victory. As we look forward to 2027, we must not relent in seeking God’s face,” he said.

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    The council chief stressed the importance of consistent spiritual backing for those in leadership positions, noting that prayers should also cover the people of Ikeja, the government of Lagos State, and the entire nation, asking for divine protection, wisdom, peace, and stability.

    “This monthly initiative,” he said, “is not just symbolic; it is strategic. We must sustain a spiritual atmosphere of unity and progress to continue reaping the fruits of good governance.”

    Dauda’s advocacy signals a renewed commitment from Ikeja Local Government to blend faith and governance as tools for national development.

    He assured CAN of the local government’s readiness to support this initiative in every possible way.

    Also present at the meeting were the Vice Chairman of the council, Abisola Omisore and the Council Manager, Mrs. Juliana Odubeko.

  • Council chair, officials clear illegal structures in FESTAC Town

    Council chair, officials clear illegal structures in FESTAC Town

    Chairman of Amuwo-Odofin Local Government, Prince Lanre Sanusi, has led a joint task force of police, Kai officers and members to clear illegal structures in FESTAC Town.

    The day-long activity, which took the team from FESTAC First Gate through 2nd Avenue, Agboju market and other major road, saw them clearing illegal structures encroaching the road and walkways.

    Speaking to the media, Sanusi said the exercise was in conformity with Lagos State’s effort of cleaning up the environment and restoring the once beautiful estate.

    “During our campaign, 99.9 per cent of the requests and yearning of the people and residents were two things: fix the bad roads and clean up the environment. And as you can see, I have my top officials here; together, we are working to bring back the sanity and glory of FESTAC, which used to be the best estate in West Africa, in fact Africa and Amuwo-Odofin.”

    On how he intends to maintain the tempo, Sanusi said the council will ensure that all security personnel in FESTAC are uniformed men, who will be on the payroll of the council, while the council gets reimbursed by business owners in the community. This, he said, will ensure their loyalty to the council and hence report any attempt to contravene the standard to the council for immediate action.

    The CDC Secretary, Evan. Egunjobi Raphael said the exercise was long overdue, as the once beautiful estate had become a mess. He said the officers of the CDC were in full support of the chairman’s effort, adding that “Festac must be cleaned up.”

  • Lawmaker presents mid-term report to constituents

    Lawmaker presents mid-term report to constituents

    By Eniola Akinwande

    A member of the House of Representatives representing Surulere II, Lanre Okunlola, yesterday presented his mid-term report tagged Milestone – A Compendium of Legislative and Constituency Impact to constituents, political leaders, and stakeholders.

    The event, with the theme: “Legislative Governance and the Renewed Hope Agenda: Pathway to a Prosperous Nation,” was held at Whiteleys Events Centre, Surulere, highlighted his achievements over the past two years.

    Okunlola detailed projects and interventions across Coker-Aguda and Itire-Ikate LCDAs, emphasising his focus on infrastructure, skill development, and digital inclusion.

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    He said some of his notable initiatives include facilitation of 34 road projects to enhance mobility, trade, and community life, skill acquisition programmes to equip residents with practical vocational skills, ICT training and infrastructure to prepare young people for opportunities in the digital economy.

    The gathering, he said, underscored the importance of synergy between all tiers of government to drive sustainable development and improve the quality of life for residents.

    Commending his efforts, Chairman of Coker-Aguda LCDA, Azeez Ogidan, described the lawmaker’s performance as exemplary and aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda’s vision for community growth.

    “Okunlola’s legislative strides are commendable. His focus on infrastructure, skill development, and digital inclusion reflects the progressive leadership our constituency needs,” Ogidan said.

  • Ikeja chair to champion fight against drug abuse

    Ikeja chair to champion fight against drug abuse

    By Sisianu Melawaku

    The Chairman of Ikeja Local Government Area, Akeem Dauda, has marked this year’s International Youth Day with commitment to youth empowerment, skill acquisition, and the fight against drug abuse.

    According to Dauda, his administration prioritises education, employment, and active youth participation in decision-making.

    “When we assumed office, the first thing we did was to start an all-day job initiative to keep our youths off the streets and productively engaged,” he said.

    He said that a three-pronged strategy and advocacy will take place in schools to raise awareness on drug abuse.

    He added that collaboration with the state government for rehabilitation, and partnerships with relevant agencies will commence to curb the sale of drugs in the community.

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    He commended Ikeja youths for their low involvement in crime, stressing that the fight against substance abuse must continue.

    He said the all-day job programme, which was initially designed for 200 participants, has already enrolled 250 youths, with another 200 set to join by the end of the month. Plans are also in place to expand partnerships with skill acquisition centres to equip young people with practical and entrepreneurial skills.

    “Our message to the youth is clear, we want collaboration, support, and energy. They are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also the bridge builders of today.”

    Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) in the council, Blessing Omodafe, lauded the council boss for the initiative.

    “The interactive session gave us the opportunity to engage directly with leaders, learn, and develop new skills. The chairman is a lover of youth, and I believe he will continue to push us forward,” she said.

  • Lagos sensitises council staff on pension documentation

    Lagos sensitises council staff on pension documentation

    The Lagos State Government has kicked off a sensitisation programme for staff of local councils on pension documentation and record updates.

    The exercise, which began at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, and held simultaneously in Epe and Badagry, is designed to provide workers with the necessary information on processing retirement benefits and updating their records with Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) for seamless pension payment.

    Declaring the programme open, the Head of Service, Olabode Agoro, stressed the importance of workers’ active participation in the Contributory Pension Scheme, which, according to him, guarantees financial security for public servants after service.

    He said: “Today, we gather to underscore the significance of our understanding in updates and changes affecting our pension scheme, which play a vital role in securing our future. The Contributory Pension Scheme was established to provide a sustainable retirement plan, ensuring financial security for public servants in the country. It is essential that we stay informed, check our payslips regularly, and ensure that our data is captured accurately”.

    The Head of Service who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Oyebola Sunkanmi, urged workers to engage with pension administrators during the exercise to ensure their data is properly updated. This, he explained, would facilitate smooth pension payments at retirement and prevent unnecessary delays.

    “Participation is key to maximising the benefits of the Contributory Pension Scheme. By working together, we can ensure that every public servant is well prepared for retirement and that our contribution to you is a secure future”, he added.

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    Director-General of the Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC), Babalola Omilana, described the sensitisation as a reflection of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to safeguarding workers’ welfare both in service and in retirement.

    He explained that the initiative would bridge knowledge gaps, address common challenges, and prepare staff for a seamless pension process.

    “Over the years, Lagos has been recognised as a trailblazer in pension administration. However, policies are only as effective as the level of awareness and compliance they command. Many public servants are unaware that outdated or incorrect data can cause avoidable delays. Through this data recapture exercise, LASPEC is working closely with PFAs to ensure every contributor’s record is accurate and up-to-date”, he said.

    Omilana assured that with proper documentation, retirees would no longer face unnecessary delays.

    “We are crossing the T’s and dotting the I’s before retirement, so that once approvals are obtained, payments can be made immediately. There will never be any backlog in Lagos Pension payment is taken very seriously by Mr. Governor”, he added.

    The sensitisation, which will run in phases, is expected to cover all 37 LCDAs during the week.

  • Elegushi seeks awareness on voluntary blood donation

    Elegushi seeks awareness on voluntary blood donation

    The traditional ruler of Ikate Kingdom, Oba Saheed Elegushi, has called for increased awareness and sensitisation on the importance of voluntary blood donation in Lagos State, noting that it is the only way the shortage in blood products can be addressed.

    Oba Elegushi was speaking at a blood donation drive organised by his foundation and KB Klub, a socio-philanthropy organisation of medical students of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos in partnership with the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service.

    Over 500 residents of Ikate-Elegushi kingdom participated in the voluntary donation.

    The traditional ruler said that myths surrounding the donation of blood must be properly addressed through sustained campaign and education from government agencies, non-governmental organisations, religious and faith-based organisations, as well as youth groups. 

    “I think we need to do more in sensitising the people, educate them and also send more messages out on the need to donate blood. I will urge all stakeholders to do more in educating and disabusing the mind of the people on the need to do more,” Elegushi said.

    Speaking during the blood donation exercise held in Eti-Osa, Sheriffdeen Oloyode, Team Leader, KB Klub, said the initiative aims to address critical issues of blood shortage in the country, which affects patients with various medical conditions.

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    He said that the initiative was held simultaneously in six other locations in Lagos with the goal to raise at least 500 pints of blood from each location.

    Executive Secretary, Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service, Dr Bodunrin Osikomaiya, emphasised the need for continued advocacy on blood donation, stating that many people still have all those myths and false information. They really do not know most of these things.

    “Some of them grew up knowing the wrong things about blood donation because of the bad experiences of people in the past. So, our advocacy is not yet enough,” she said.

    She said the blood collected would be taken to the state’s blood transfusion centres and designated hospitals for processing and screening.

    “Once screened, the blood will be distributed to various hospitals, including Lagos State Accident and Emergency.

  • Adebule opens skill acquisition centre in Mushin

    Adebule opens skill acquisition centre in Mushin

    By Eniola Akinwande and Ayokunle Adebiyi

    The senator representing Lagos West District, Dr Idiat Adebule, has inaugurated a newly constructed Skill Acquisition Centre at Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos.

    The facility, built as part of her constituency projects, is designed to empower residents through vocational training and promote self-reliance.

    Senator Adebule said the centre would complement the efforts of the Lagos State Government and the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government in human resource development of the people of Lagos-West District.

    According to her, the centre is just a tip of the iceberg, adding that more of such impactful projects are ongoing across the 28 LGAs/LCDAs of Lagos-West from Badagry, Ifako-Ijaiye, Agege, Alimosho, Ojo, Ikeja, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, to Amuwo-Odofin and others. She urged the residents to protect the centre to reap maximum benefits.

    “The money used in constructing this place was given to us by the Federal Government, which means it is your money. This project is yours, and I encourage you to take care of it so that generations to come will benefit from it,” she said. She noted that the centre was one of several ongoing constituency projects across Lagos West, adding that a new market in Agbado/Oke-Odo would be inaugurated soon.

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    According to her, other interventions in Mushin will include the installation of solar-powered streetlights as well as the planned construction of a one-kilometre road at Market Street, near Ijesha. Adebule thanked her constituents for giving her their mandates, stressing that their support made such interventions possible.

    “Whatever we are celebrating here today is about you. You voted for us, you gave us the mandate, and your money is working for you,” she said.

    She assured the residents that training programmes at the new centre would commence before the end of the year, with the facility fully equipped for youths and artisans.

    Former Chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Rasaq Ajala, described the project as a step toward reducing unemployment and enhancing sustainable development in the area.

    He said he had persuaded the Senator to establish a skills acquisition centre instead of classrooms.

    “She initially wanted to build classrooms, but I told her no. She asked what we would prefer, and I suggested a skills acquisition centre for the people of Odi-Olowo. At first, she was concerned about how to accommodate it within her budget since it was not part of her initial plan.

    However, because of her love for her people she reconsidered and found a way to make it possible,” he said.

    Chairman of the council, Seyi Jakande, hailed Senator Adebule for the gesture.

    Jakande promised further support of the council for the senator.