Ikeja Chairman Urges Nigerians To Renew Faith In Nation At 66, Reaffirms Commitment To Sustainable Development
The Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has called on Nigerians to renew their faith in the country and remain committed to building a more peaceful, prosperous and inclusive nation as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Dauda, in his Independence Day message to Nigerians on Thursday, October 1, 2026, described Nigeria as a nation of enormous possibilities despite the economic, security and social challenges confronting the country.
He said the anniversary provided an opportunity not only to celebrate Nigeria’s independence, but also to reflect on the nation’s journey, honour the sacrifices of its founding generations, acknowledge existing challenges and renew the collective commitment to building a better Nigeria.
According to him, Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources, youthful population, entrepreneurial spirit and the resilience of its citizens remain important assets for national development.
He, however, acknowledged that many families and businesses continue to experience economic pressures, while issues relating to security, employment, infrastructure and access to social services require sustained attention.
The Ikeja chairman urged Nigerians not to allow the nation’s challenges to extinguish their hope, stressing that the country’s difficulties must be confronted with practical solutions, responsible leadership and collective action.
Renewed Hope Agenda
Dauda said the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with its emphasis on economic growth, national security, food security, infrastructure, energy, human capital development, economic diversification and improved governance, must ultimately translate into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
He stressed that development must be felt at the grassroots through improved infrastructure, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, stronger businesses, cleaner communities, increased economic opportunities and effective social services.
According to him, local governments have a critical role to play because they remain the level of government closest to the people.
Ikeja Agenda and Grassroots Development
Speaking on his administration’s development priorities, Dauda reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the I.K.E.J.A Agenda as a framework for people-centred governance and sustainable development in the local government.
He explained that the agenda focuses on Infrastructural Development and Urban Renewal; Knowledge-Based Economic Empowerment; Environmental Governance and Healthcare; a Just Society driven by Social Services; and Accountability and Good Governance.
He said the administration’s development philosophy recognises that sustainable development must be comprehensive and people-oriented.
“We cannot build infrastructure without investing in people. We cannot pursue economic development while neglecting the environment. We cannot speak of progress while vulnerable members of society are left behind,” he said.
Dauda added that his administration would continue to work with residents and stakeholders to build an Ikeja that is cleaner, safer, healthier, economically vibrant and inclusive.
Ikeja’s Alignment with Lagos Development Agenda
The chairman also reaffirmed Ikeja Local Government’s commitment to complementing the THEMES Agenda of the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
He noted that the THEMES framework, which encompasses Traffic Management and Transportation; Health and Environment; Education and Technology; Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy; Entertainment and Tourism; and Security and Governance, provides a broad development direction for Lagos State.
According to Dauda, Ikeja’s strategic position as the capital of Lagos State and an important commercial, administrative and economic centre places a special responsibility on the local government to contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.
He said the local government would continue to pursue initiatives in areas including roads and drainage, environmental management, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, economic development and social services.
He summed up the administration’s development philosophy with the assertion that “a prosperous Ikeja contributes to a prosperous Lagos, and a prosperous Lagos contributes to a stronger Nigeria.”
Chairman Prioritises Youth Empowerment
The Ikeja chairman also highlighted the importance of investing in the country’s youth population, describing young Nigerians as a major asset to the nation’s future.
He called for greater opportunities for young people to acquire skills, pursue education, embrace technology, establish businesses, participate in agriculture, develop their talents and contribute meaningfully to society.
Dauda said young Nigerians should be empowered to become entrepreneurs, professionals, innovators, artists, farmers, athletes and community leaders capable of contributing to national development.
He also commended Nigerian women, workers, artisans, traders, farmers, professionals and entrepreneurs for their resilience and contributions to the nation’s economy.
He pledged that the local government would continue to explore initiatives that promote economic empowerment, skills development, enterprise and social inclusion.
Calls for Collective Responsibility
The chairman further called for stronger collaboration between government and citizens in the pursuit of sustainable development.
He urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, community associations, market leaders, transport operators, youth organisations, women groups, professionals, businesses and residents to support initiatives that promote peace, development and responsible citizenship.
He appealed to residents to keep their environment clean, protect public infrastructure, support schools and healthcare facilities, respect the law and reject violence and criminality.
Dauda stressed that the responsibility for building a better Nigeria cannot be left to government alone, urging citizens to contribute positively to the development of their communities.
“Nigeria Belongs to All of Us”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 66-year journey, the Ikeja chairman said the country’s future would ultimately be determined by the collective choices and actions of its citizens.
He called for unity, hope, service, patriotism and responsible citizenship, noting that differences in ethnicity, religion, political affiliation and social background should not undermine Nigerians’ shared national identity.
Dauda reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working in partnership with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Lagos State Government’s THEMES Agenda and the Ikeja Local Government’s I.K.E.J.A Agenda to promote sustainable development and improve the quality of life of residents.
He urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of past generations by building a nation worthy of their legacy.
The chairman, on behalf of the Ikeja Local Government family, wished residents of Ikeja, Lagos State and Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and prosperous 66th Independence Anniversary.
He concluded with a prayer for God’s continued blessings upon Ikeja Local Government, Lagos State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!
Courtesy: Ikeja Local Government
