Yesterday, Thursday 3rd February at the Legislative Chamber, the Executive Chairman, Hon. Saheed Adesegun Bankole, presented an Estimated Budget of two billion, three hundred and fourty-nine million, five hundred and twenty- one thousand, six hundred and twenty-four naira, eighty-one kobo(2,349,521,624.81) to the Legislative House of Eti-Osa Local Government.
The LG boss appreciated his political and administrative team and the community stakeholders for their persistent support all through the years and urged that it continues so that together Eti-Osa can be transformed for the best. In his speech, he termed the year 2022 budget a ‘Budget of Renewed Hope’ as he promised to relentlessly improve the living standards of the good people of Eti-Osa Local Government.
He mentioned that the country particularly faced stiff economic downturn as the twin negative effects of the coronavirus pandemic and the #EndSARS protests took its toll on businesses, spending and consumption habits of Lagosians. However, he hopes to forge ahead to continue the good work of his last dispensation.
In his words, “regardless of the tough economic situation of the country, we are poised to remain focused and resolute in uplifting the lives of Eti-Osa residents. We listened to all the requests of our dear stakeholders at the last budget stakeholders forum and that is what forms the bulk of the 2022 proposed budget estimates.
He reiterated that his administration shall be focusing on some key pillars of development namely: creating jobs and inclusive economic growth, accelerating economic recovery, supporting local businesses, providing new (and maintaining the existing) infrastructure, improving the education and health sectors and the welfare of staff of the Council, amidst other projects.
While commending the efforts of the revenue team over the years, he said the reward for hard work is more work, therefore, it behoves the team to put in more efforts for greater IGR for Eti-Osa. He said several requests for economic partnership from corporate organisations who have enjoyed the level-playing environment created at Eti-Osa are welcomed as this would serve as an economic stimulus and a boost to the Local Government IGR.
He promised that his administration will direct a lot of efforts in providing capital projects such as construction of motorized boreholes and viewing centres in various wards, construction and rehabilitation of roads such as Baale Road, Jakande and Ikota Estates roads, Agunbiade Bankole Street, Saka Oluwa Street to mention but a few.
In the Education sector, he mentioned that schools will be equipped with Modern ICT systems to provide the children with opportunities to learn and earn. Worthy to note is the fact that empowerment programmes will be sponsored for the vulnerables while uplifting and reskilling the youths to work and contribute positively to the community.
Within the LG secretariat, he hopes to improve the quality of work and staff welfare by constructing a new office block, renovating existing offices, purchasing official vehicles and equipping offices with the latest ICT systems and sponsoring periodical trainings for all level of staffers.
The Legislative Leader, Hon. Ogunderu Muftau Bolaji responded by saying he is very optimistic about the success of the administration as the chairman is a visionary and indefatigable leader.
In attendance were the Vice-Chairman, Omooba Adeola Adetoro, the Councillors, Council Manager, Royal Fathers, Party Leaders, CDC Excos, Religious Leaders, Management staff and other stakeholders in the community.
