The Nation Newspaper

Category: Grassroots

  • Why we want Folakemi Agboola as Ejigbo Council chair, by coalition

    Why we want Folakemi Agboola as Ejigbo Council chair, by coalition

    Ahead of the Lagos State Local Government elections, a coalition of women groups in the All Progressives Congress (APC) has endorsed Folakemi Agboola for chairman of Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

    A statement by the convener, Iyabo Sakete, said Agboola’s endorsement was necessary to deepen women inclusion at the grassroots.

    The group noted that the chairmanship aspirant has been a vibrant voice for women in Ejigbo LCDA, and at the national level, propagating progressive ideologies and programmes.

    According to Mrs. Sakete, Agboola, fondly called Moremi Asoludero, has paid her dues in Ejigbo LCDA and Lagos State when she served as State Coordinator for Women in the Tinubu/Shetima Campaign Group. Agboola was also a member of the Directorate of Planning and Strategy for the Sanwo-Olu/Hamzat campaign group.

    Read Also: Ejigbo council/monarch rift deepens

    Mrs. Sakete also noted that the aspirant enjoys wide followership among party faithful and populace in Ejigbo LCDA.

    She added: “We therefore urge our party leadership to pick Folakemi Agboola as chairmanship candidate for Ejigbo LCDA. We believe her candidacy would encourage and deepen women participation in leadership the council. Her vision will complement the #Lagosrising agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda at the national level.”

    Folakemi Agboola holds a Diploma in Business Administration and Management, and certifications in Project Management. She is well read, widely travelled and has decades of experience in Project Management consultancy within and outside Lagos State.

  • Imota youths chart 10-year development plan

    Imota youths chart 10-year development plan

    • Demand accountability from leaders

    To demand transparency and accountability from political aspirants, the Imota chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has held a one-day community dialogue aimed at shaping the future of Imota Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

    The event, themed “From Dialogue to Action: Shaping the Future of Imota LCDA Together”, brought together stakeholders across various sectors to deliberate on a developmental blueprint for the next decade.

    Coordinator of NYCN in Imota LCDA, Oriyomi Adebogun, said the initiative marked a turning point in youth civic engagement, stressing the the need to hold leaders accountable before and after elections.

    “Holding the same discussions every year without taking action is unproductive. This programme is a deliberate step towards building a 10-year development plan for Imota LCDA. We are telling aspirants: if you do not have a plan for us, we already have a plan for ourselves and you’ll work with it.

    According to him, the plan being compiled into a communiqué will be presented to elected officials, who will be expected to report back annually with tangible progress tied to its goals.

    “By next year, when we convene again, no leader will be allowed to come empty-handed. We expect to see two or three projects completed from the blueprint. We’re done watching from the sidelines”, he said.

    Read Also: FG upgrades 38 technical colleges to equip youths with global skills, says Minister

    He noted that the NYCN will partner with traditional rulers and influential community members in the diaspora to provide oversight and legitimacy to the process.

    Adebogun also emphasised the importance of aligning the plan with existing regional frameworks.

    “We’ve studied the Lagos State master plan from 2016 to 2036. Our question is: why haven’t we seen real benefits? Is it because we lack proper representation at the top? That’s why this dialogue is critical—once we identify the root of the problem, the solution becomes easier to find.”

    He pointed to the Lagos Rice Mill in Imota as an example of unfulfilled potential.

    “Though the mill is operational, it’s far from its capacity. It was designed to produce 2.5 million bags of rice annually, but it’s falling short due to logistics and supply chain issues. Our youths should be fully employed there, but currently, few people are engaged,” he said.

    Oriyomi added that a follow-up committee would be formed to take their concerns to relevant state authorities, including the Ministry of Agriculture and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s office.

    Medical Officer of Health, Imota LCDA, Dr. Wasiu Owoyele, described the dialogue as a timely and strategic initiative.

    “This is a well-conceived idea. The essence is to bring stakeholders across various sectors such as the health, education, security, economy, and social development together. It will serve as a blueprint for the next ten years, providing a clear action plan for policymakers and political leaders,” he added.

    Former member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Nurudeen Sholaja , stressed the need for credible leadership in the council.

    “The next chairman must be a graduate and someone capable of handling complex situations.

    From what I’ve seen here, many of the aspirants are qualified”, he said.

  • Iba disburses bursary to students

    Iba disburses bursary to students

    The Chairman of Iba Local Council Development Area, Jubril Yisa, has disbursed bursary awards to a large number of indigent students of Iba Community at the Council Secretariat.

    He said said the gesture is a testament to his commitment to support academic excellence and to encourage the youths to strive for greatness.

    “The bursary is not just easing financial burdens but also sending a strong message that in Iba LCDA, we value hard work, we reward excellence and we believe in potentials of the youth,” he said.

    Read Also: Ibas urges military officers to find solutions to insecurity

    The council chief reminded the beneficiaries that the bursary is a seed and that it is the hope of his administration that they will “nurture it with diligence, integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence.”

    Supervisor for Education, Adesoji Agbawi, urged the beneficiaries to seize the opportunity and utilize it well as “ to whom much is given, much is equally expected.

    Teniola Rhoda, a beneficiary, appreciated the council boss, pledging support for his re-election.

  • Ejigbo chairmanship aspirant pledges servant leadership, improved infrastructure

    Ejigbo chairmanship aspirant pledges servant leadership, improved infrastructure

    All roads led to the Ejigbo mini stadium last Thursday for the declaration of the aspirant contesting the chairmanship election in the Ejigbo Local Council Development area, Habeeb Omowunmi Anibaba.

    Hundreds of his supporters clad in various attires with blue fez caps to match thronged the mini stadium with songs of solidarity and support for the chairmanship aspiration of Anibaba as they promised him their total support in all ways.

    Former Ejigbo Council  Chairman and personal aide to the Minister of Mines, Kehinde Bamigbetan, thanked the large crowd for their trust and belief in the leadership of the mandate caucus of the All Progressives Congress in Ejigbo. Bamigbetan reassured the crowd that if Anibaba is elected the chairman, residents, and party members woukld see continued improved infrastructure within the council. The former council boss presented the chairmanship aspirant, Anibaba, before the enthusiastic large audience with an ovation.

    Addressing the supporters in their numbers, Anibaba, a former banker, said he would use his wealth of experience to transform the council when elected chairman. He formally declared his intention before the large audience with a pledge to work assiduously for the development of the local council development area.

    Read Also: Ejigbo urges mothers on proper breastfeeding

    “With all humility and heart filled with purpose, I formally declare my intention to contest for the position of chairman of Ejigbo local council development area under the trusted and progressive banner of the All Progressives Congress.

    This declaration is more than a political step; it is a pledge. A pledge to serve, to uplift, and to advance the aspirations of the great people of Ejigbo,” he declared. Speaking further on his reason for contesting the chairmanship position, Anibaba, who commended the outgoing chairman of the council, Monsurudeen Bello, for his transformational programmes, said that Ejigbo is at a turning point. Under the stewardship of our incumbent chairman. We have witnessed foundational progress. I commend his efforts and achievements.

    “Now, I step forward- not to replace, but to continue and elevate. To take Ejigbo from where it is to where it ought to be; a community of vision, employment, development, and dignity.”

    Anibaba promises to be a servant leader and an advocate of an aggregate voice for the betterment of the council. He said: “I am running, not just to be called chairman, but to be your servant leader, your advocate, and your voice at the table of governance. Let us rise together, let us build together, and let us take Ejigbo to greater heights of more progress.”

  • Sanwo-Olu kicks-off road project in Ikorodu

    Sanwo-Olu kicks-off road project in Ikorodu

    In a move to strengthen infrastructure and uplift rural communities in Lagos State, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has flagged off the construction of the Monsuru-Egbeyemi Street / Alhaja-Agbaje Street Road in Ikorodu Local Government Area.

    Speaking during the ceremony, Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, highlighted the administration’s dedication to impactful governance through infrastructural development in the various communities across the state.

    According to him, “the long-anticipated 1.3-kilometre project is poised to significantly enhance road connectivity and unlock economic opportunities for residents of Monsuru Egbeyemi, Alhaja Agbaje Street, Adlas Arisa Street and part of Cyril Street in Ikorodu Local Government Area.”

    Agbaje explained that the strategic road project would feature drainage systems, culverts, an outfall drain, 1,000-watt solar-powered streetlights, kerb painting, and lane markings—underscoring the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, especially in the area of  traffic management and transportation.

    He further described the road as more than just infrastructure, calling it a lifeline that would connect farmers to markets, students to schools, businesses to customers, and families to a better quality of life.

    “This is not just a road—it is a springboard for prosperity,” he added.

    Agbaje called on residents to take ownership of the project and protect it, emphasising that public infrastructure is funded by taxpayers and must be preserved. He assured the community that the road would not be abandoned, as competent contractors have been engaged and the Office of Rural Development, through its project monitoring efforts, would ensure quality and timely delivery.

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwo, in her welcome address, noted that the contractor has been mobilised and are expected to move to the site by next week, while reaffirming the state government’s commitment to bringing various developmental projects such as empowerment and infrastructural development to Ikorodu Local Government Area.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu commissions magistrates’ quarters

    She cited the project as part of the many initiatives driven by Governor Sanwo-Olu’s mandate to transform rural communities in the sate.

    She also urged residents to take ownership of the project by ensuring they create a seamless environment for the contractors to execute the project.

    In their goodwill messages, former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye; Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Wasiu Adesina, represented by the Secretary of the Local Government, Afini Adesina; and Chairman of APC Ikorodu Central, Waheed Animashaun, commended the governor for prioritising the needs of Ikorodu residents, while encouraging members of the community to safeguard the project for the collective benefit of all.

    Prince Ogunleye also appealed to property owners not to exploit the development by increasing rents, urging consideration for tenants.

  • Alabi to inaugurate 23 roads, PHCs, others

    Alabi to inaugurate 23 roads, PHCs, others

    The Chairman of Bariga Local Councils, Kolade Alabi, is set to inaugurate numerous projects in the council.

    The projects include inauguration of 23 roads, five primary healthcare centers (PHCs), four schools, and one fire station.

    The Nation learnt that the ambitious initiative underscores his commitment to infrastructure development and improving essential services for residents.

    Read Also: Michael/Felicia Alabi Memorial Table Tennis gets date

    Under Alabi’s leadership, Bariga Local Council has witnessed notable progress, particularly in road construction and healthcare accessibility.

    His administration has been actively addressing community needs, including ongoing projects such as the Olorunkemi road project and many others.

    With these new developments, the council aims to enhance mobility, education, healthcare, and emergency response services, fostering a more sustainable and livable environment for the people of Bariga.

  • Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA empowers artisans, traders with N100m grant

    Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA empowers artisans, traders with N100m grant

    Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has empowered 1,000 traders, artisans, and other residents with a N100 million grant to support their businesses.

    At the empowerment programme held at the council secretariat yesterday, Chairman of the LCDA, Ladi Oluwaloni, said the initiative underscored his administration’s commitment to fostering economic prosperity and uplifting lives within the council area.

    “Today, we are here to launch Ajumose Season 1, the Growth Together Entrepreneur Empowerment Grant. This is not merely an event; it is a bold declaration of our administration’s unshakable commitment to fostering economic prosperity, uplifting lives, and building a vibrant, inclusive Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA,” Oluwaloni said.

    He explained that the beneficiaries, who received N100,000 each, included tradesmen, artisans, members of transport unions, Community Development Association (CDA) officials, and others.

    “Today, we take a historic step by empowering over 1,000 hardworking entrepreneurs across our wards with non-repayable grants to strengthen and expand their businesses. These grants are more than financial support; they are a testament to our belief in your ingenuity, resilience, and determination. They are seeds of opportunity, planted to cultivate a harvest of sustainable livelihoods, job creation, and community progress.”

    The council chairman added that the empowerment was motivated by the council’s belief that small and medium-scale enterprises are the soul of any thriving economy and community.

    “We are nurturing a culture of enterprise, paving the way for financial independence, and ensuring that every citizen has a stake in our collective growth. This is not just a programme; it is a movement to transform lives and re-write the economic story of Ayobo-Ipaja.”

    Read Also: Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA empowers artisans, traders with N100m cash grant

    Also speaking at the event, Elegbeda of Egbeda, Oba Ahmed Orelope-Laka, lauded the council chairman for his development initiatives and positive impact since assuming office.

    “Let me also say here categorically that this type of empowerment is new to me in this Ayobo/Ipaja community. This is the first of its kind for a chairman to empower the residents with this huge amount of money to support businesses. We really appreciate this gesture by the LCDA chairman, and I have no doubt that this will go a long way in supporting businesses,” Oba Orelope-Laka said.

    Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the LCDA, Wole Aina, praised the initiative and urged residents to support the council’s leadership, particularly as the local government elections approach.

    “This is the first time this large number of people are benefitting from an empowerment programme. Let us support the chairman and participate actively in the coming local government elections to bring about more development. The primary election is approaching; let us imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship, no matter the outcome. At the same time, we appeal to you to use these grants for your businesses and not for unimportant things.”

    One of the beneficiaries, Taibat Awosika, expressed gratitude to the council chairman, noting that the grant would significantly help grow her trade. “I will use the N100,000 to stock my shop with goods,” Awosika said.

  • Aspirant pledges to anchor Mushin on Tinubu’s agenda

    Aspirant pledges to anchor Mushin on Tinubu’s agenda

    The aspirant for the chairmanship of Mushin Local Government, Okeowo Adeoye (aka Alamala), has pledged to anchor Mushin’s development within the framework of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He stated that Mushin must not be left behind in the wave of national transformation currently sweeping across the country under the leadership of President Tinubu.

    “As a chairman aspirant, my Five-Point Agenda is not just about Mushin. It is about aligning Mushin to the greater national vision of prosperity, stability, and sustainable hope as championed by our President. We must make sure that the Renewed Hope becomes a reality that every Mushin resident can feel and see daily,” he said.

    Read Also: Tinubu sends N1.78tr FCT budget to National Assembly for approval

    He said the agenda includes Youth Empowerment, Wealth Creation, and Skills Development; Food Security and Agricultural Development; Quality Education and Digital Advancement; Accessible Healthcare and Community Wellbeing and Infrastructure Renewal, Environmental Sanitation, and Security.

    He emphasized that, if given the opportunity to serve, his administration will introduce innovative projects such as the Mushin Enterprise and Innovation Hub, the Mushin Food Security Program, Mobile Health Clinics, and Urban Renewal Initiatives — all structured to complement the efforts of the federal government.

    “We must support President Tinubu’s agenda by delivering real solutions at the local level. As Chairman, I will ensure that Mushin does not just dream of hope — we will live it, grow it, and export it to inspire the rest of Lagos and Nigeria,” he stated.

    The aspirant called on party leaders, stakeholders, youth, women, and residents of Mushin to support his aspiration, promising to deliver genuine, people-centered leadership that will make Mushin a beacon of prosperity and pride.

  • Aspirant unveils five-pillar agenda for Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA

    Aspirant unveils five-pillar agenda for Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA

    Determined to address the needs of his Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and put smiles on their faces, an aspirant for the council seat, Derin Phillips, has unveiled a plan designed to restore confidence in the council’s leadership and solve its challenges if elected chairman.

    Praising the residents for their determination to have a better council, the aspirant running under the aegis of the All Progressives Congress (APC) promised to structure the LCDA under the five-pillar agenda and reiterated his commitment to making the LCDA the pride of Lagos.

    The five-point agenda (FAITH) offers solutions for Financing and innovation, Access to social welfare, innovation in education and technology, Transparency in governance, and Health and the environment. Phillip has said that the plan, when implemented, would ensure everyone within the Ikoyi-Obalende council benefits from the dividends of democracy from their government.

    Addressing residents and party members during a massive rally under the Obalende bridge, Phillips said the plan was designed after a holistic review of the residents’ needs and his observations as a council resident and his understanding of the geographical and economic relevance of the LCDA in Lagos and the whole of Nigeria. “I am doing this because this is my home, I was born and bred here. Our LCDA deserves the best candidates to lift the council to greater heights. And I believe I am the most prepared and equipped to serve our people and run for this seat,” he said.

    Read Also: Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA empowers 1,020

    The aspirant added that, over the years, he had acquired leadership skills necessary for political office through service to the state.

    He is also an astute businessman with interests in entertainment, agriculture, and real estate, which gives him insight into how best to lead the council.

    Giving a further breakdown of the FAITH agenda, which he described as a creative strategy for solving complex problems, the young expert explained that under his watch, petty traders and young entrepreneurs would have access to grants that could be used to boost their businesses. He added that the residents, especially the vulnerable within the council, would have access to social welfare, saying this was one of the dividends of democracy.

    On Innovation in education and technology, Phillips said: “I believe we should be doing things now in compliance with global standards, so under this, we will focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI). I believe there is an emerging potential that we must tap into as Africans, Nigerians, and Lagosians”. The aspirant added that this digital skill exposes youth to more employment opportunities than they had never dreamed of.

  • Council poll: Loyalists lauds APC’s action on women

    Council poll: Loyalists lauds APC’s action on women

    Some loyalists of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have applauded the Lagos State chapter over the special consideration given to women aspirants.

    The APC, after slashing the fee for nomination form from N1 million to N250,000 for female aspirants, also instructed party chairmen at the council level to ensure certain number of women emerged as councillorship candidates during Saturday primary election.

    According to Segun Adio, the gesture would further aid women participatory in governance.

    Wale Akinade from Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, enjoined the party leadership to choose the best among the aspirants according their manifestoes.

    According to him, in councils where female have spent eight years, male candidates should emerge to contribute their quota.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Eight Reps members dump parties for APC, PDP

    This, Akeem Akingbade, said would ensure equity and fairness.

    They called for a Special Monitoring team to be put in place for proper accountability for the benefit of electorates and effective grassroots governance.

    Tunde Adekunle said there’s a need for re-engineering of the grassroots politics for purposeful administration.

    “Majority of present local government administrators have worked tirelessly to better lots of their areas, while other performance at low ebb. This reflect at our last Presidential election. Part of reason we lost some vital local governments to opponents were due to lack of inclusiveness, exhibitions of flagrant indiscipline, disloyalty to party hierarchy, marginalization of loyal party members and failure to listen to collective advice of electorates,” he said.