The Executive Chairman of Somolu Local Government, Hon. Lateef Ashimi, on Thursday presented the ₦12,576,677,393 proposed Appropriation Bill for the 2026 fiscal year to the Legislative Council for consideration, urging councillors to ensure its quick passage to enable government meet the development expectations of residents.
According to the budget breakdown,
Recurrent Expenditure: ₦5,651,895,020
Capital Expenditure: ₦6,009,614,665.46
Addressing councillors at the Legislative Chamber, Ashimi described the presentation as a “homecoming,” recalling his tenure as a former councillor and emphasizing the long-standing unity among the political leadership in Somolu.
“Many of us—myself, the Vice Chairman, Leader of the House, and several councillors—were born, raised, schooled, and still live in Somolu. This bond should naturally translate into a seamless synergy between the Executive and Legislature for the growth and development of our community,” he said.
Ashimi noted that since assuming office on 27 July 2025, his administration has built on a smooth transition and continued projects inherited from the previous government. He highlighted notable achievements delivered under the existing budget, including:
The commissioning of the Ultra-Modern Council Secretariat named after Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, OON
The Senator Bayo Osinowo Legislative Building
A newly completed Fire Service Station and Police Post
He assured residents that all ongoing and new projects would be completed once the 2026 budget receives timely approval.
Ashimi stressed that Somolu residents are eager for impactful developments in key areas such as road construction, healthcare, environmental sanitation, sports, youth empowerment, and security. He added that both new and existing roads—as well as public institutions including schools and primary healthcare centres—will be equipped with solar-powered streetlights to improve safety and service delivery.
In his response, the Leader of the House, Hon. James Tunde Oyeyiola, pledged that the legislature would thoroughly scrutinize the budget to ensure equitable allocation of resources across departments for maximum benefit to residents.
The budget presentation was attended by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Taiwo Hassan Ojomu; Member representing Somolu Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Abiodun Orekoya; APC Chairman Yomi Okuribido; party leaders including Hon. Demola Olisa, Hon. Fatai Bakare, Hon. Gbolahan Bagostowe, Hon. Williams Bamidele Lawanson, and Madam Marian Omotanwa Salawu; the Chief Imam of Somolu, Sheikh Biliaminu Dabiri; CAN Representative Pastor Oyeniyi; the management team of the local government; youth groups; and other stakeholders.
