Expectations are high, Sanwo-Olu tells newly elected LG chairs
The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged the newly elected chairpersons and their deputies to come together and achieve outcomes that reflect the people's mandate.Sanwo-Olu made this plea on Friday during a three-day retreat at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, organized by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development.
He stated that the program, themed “Driving Grassroots Development through Strategic Governance,” aims to support the chairpersons and vice chairpersons of the state's 57 local government areas and local council development areas in their governance responsibilities.
The governor, represented by his Deputy Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, mentioned that the retreat is meant to provide the council leaders with essential information and knowledge necessary for navigating the complexities and guidelines of local government administration, along with public sector ethics.
“Your win in the election is not merely a political success. It is a mandate from the people for the All Progressives Congress to achieve a full sweep,” he remarked.
“The retreat signifies an understanding among members. No one should be the weakest link. The only path forward is to learn from one another. This retreat is intended to empower all of you.
“I was pleased to see procurement officers engaging with you when I arrived. I believe the World Bank was instrumental in introducing the procurement law to our nation, as corruption often begins and ends with procurement.
“There is a perception that anyone in public office is dishonest. We must learn from one another. If you believe that you will have no challenges, then you are mistaken about the nature of this job.
“Governance is not as complicated as rocket science. The work that lies ahead is critical, with high expectations from the people that can never be fully met,” he emphasized.
He pointed out that the issues facing West Africa are urban planning and procurement, stating that efforts must be focused on grassroots to enhance understanding in these areas.
Bolaji Robert, the Commissioner of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, noted that the retreat aims to help the council chairpersons quickly acclimate to their governance roles and arm them with crucial information and insights about local government administration.
“The people have high expectations. They are eager for the promises to be fulfilled, for essential infrastructure projects to be delivered, and for services that cater to the public, which are the tangible benefits of democracy that can enhance the socio-economic well-being of the citizens,” said the commissioner.
In his comments, Sanni Okanlawon, the Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, encouraged the chairpersons to become problem solvers, emphasizing that leadership is earned through trust, not merely a title.
Speaking on behalf of his peers, Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LCDA, expressed gratitude to the governor for approving the retreat, stating that the successful swearing-in ceremony serves as a commitment to uphold good governance.
“I assure you that by the end of this retreat, we will be well-prepared for the responsibilities ahead. Our role at the grassroots level is vital for the health of democracy, and we are prepared to deliver,” Olowa stated.
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