The Oriade Local Council Development Area (LCDA) organized a 3-day retreat focused on the 2025 Budget and Procurement, which took place from Wednesday, November 20th to Friday, November 22nd, 2024, at the Whispering Palms in Badagry, Lagos.
The event, attended by legislators, executive council members, management staff, and political office holders of Oriade LCDA, commenced with participants’ self-introduction, after which the Executive Chairman, Hon. Ramotalai Akinlola-Hassan, formally opened the retreat.
In her opening remarks, she warmly welcomed all participants to her final retreat as Executive Chairman of the LCDA, encouraging them to remain attentive throughout and actively engage in all sessions and discussions.
Hon. Ramotalai Akinlola-Hassan highlighted that for a local government to prosper, growth must start from within, underscoring the importance of cooperation between civil servants and politicians. With that, she officially declared the retreat open.
The first day of the retreat featured a session on Understanding Procurement Functions and Processes in a Free Market Economy, led by Mr. Ambali Taofik.O., Deputy Director of Procurement at the Lagos State Service Commission. Mr. Taofik-O. highlighted the significance of adhering to procurement procedures and due process, stressing the need for transparency in all procurement activities.
On the second day of the Budget of Consolidation retreat, Dr. Olu Badejo delivered a presentation on capacity building, recognizing outstanding performances, and discussing local government autonomy. Dr. Badejo also emphasized the importance of expanding internally generated revenue (IGR) for sustained growth.
The retreat included interactive question-and-answer sessions, allowing participants to seek clarification on key topics, with responses provided accordingly.
In his vote of thanks, the Vice Chairman of Oriade LCDA, Chief Moshood Olanrewaju Badmus, expressed gratitude to all participants for their active engagement throughout the retreat. He encouraged everyone to apply the knowledge gained to improve the workings of the local government.
This retreat further demonstrated Hon. Ramotalai Akinlola-Hassan’s commitment to capacity building, effective governance, and delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Oriade LCDA.
The retreat concluded on a high note with a Gala Night, where participants relaxed, enjoyed music, and celebrated the success of the event.
