— AKOD Administration Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive Governance
The 2025 Budget Community Stakeholders’ Engagement of Ikeja Local Government entered its second day on Thursday, with residents of Onilekere/Onipetesi (Ward C) and Anifowoshe/ Ogunbiyi (Ward D) communities actively participating in discussions on development priorities for the coming fiscal year.
The exercise, organized by the Budget and Economic Planning Department under the leadership of Dr. (Mrs.) Yemisi Razak, is part of a ward-to-ward consultative initiative championed by the Executive Chairman, Hon. Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), to ensure every community contributes meaningfully to the 2026 budget formulation process.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Razak commended the council chairman for institutionalizing grassroots participation in budgeting — the first of its kind in Lagos State. She noted that the ward-based sessions provide a platform for residents to express their specific needs, which will guide the preparation of a people-centered, realistic budget.
The sessions recorded impressive attendance from traditional rulers, market associations, artisans, youth leaders, and other stakeholders. The Baale of Onipetesi and the Baale of Anifowoshe praised the inclusive model, describing it as a reflection of responsive governance that gives communities a sense of belonging.
Representing the Council Manager, the Head of Administration and Human Resources, Comrade Jubril Aliu (Ally J), highlighted the importance of sustained community partnership and feedback in driving development. The Vice Chairman reiterated the council’s resolve to make the 2026 budget a reflection of the people’s aspirations.
Delivering his message, Chairman AKOD reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and participatory governance. He stated that the ongoing stakeholders’ engagement aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, emphasizing that governance must be people-driven.
According to him, “true progress is only achieved when governance listens, learns, and acts. This engagement is not a formality; it is a foundation for our shared development.”
Chairman Dauda appreciated community leaders, youth, and market representatives for their valuable input, assuring them that their recommendations will shape the 2026 fiscal plan. He further pledged that the council will continue to prioritize critical sectors such as infrastructure, health, education, environment, youth empowerment, and social welfare.
The consultative exercise continues tomorrow with engagements scheduled for other wards, as the Ikeja Local Government sustains its drive to strengthen community trust, deepen democratic participation, and promote inclusive growth across all sectors.
