Lagos inaugurates Community Development Advisory Council

CITIZENS COMPASS —Lagos State Government on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, inaugurated new members into the State Community Development Advisory Council. 

The inauguration which came after the election took place at the Conference Room of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development; Dr. Nurudeen Agbaje while congratulating winners of the election, urged the newly elected Chairman; Alhaji Azeez Amusat and other members of the State Community Advisory Council to consolidate efforts with the State Government in ensuring that development and peaceful co-existence reach the grassroots during their administration.

He explained that the recently concluded election is a proof that free and fair elections where candidates of the people can have their say and their way is possible.

The Special Adviser also charged the newly elected officers to work together to build strong, prosperous and progressive communities that would become the bedrock of the Lagos of our dreams.

Dr. Agbaje equally used the opportunity to appreciate the Governor of Lagos State; Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, who has put in place structures that engender development at the grassroots and has given recognition to Community Development Associations and Committees in the State and the restoration of the Office of Rural Development to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development.

He added that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s decision is a pointer to the fact that Mr Governor is very interested in the development of the grassroot communities across the State.

The Special Adviser however advised the Council to be committed to the new assignment without looking at any personal gain or benefit, as the job is a voluntary service to our State.

Similarly, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development; Mrs Kikelomo Bolarinwa while giving her welcome address commended the contestants and delegates for their commitment to Making Lagos State a 21st Century Economy.

“What we are witnessing today, with the election, is another demonstration of our collective efforts through sacrifices of engaging in community development which is geared towards sustaining our dear State as Centre of Excellence”. She said.

Mrs Bolarinwa added that one of the great achievements one can ever have is to truly serve people. She used the opportunity to salute members of the CDAs and CDCs, who have been putting themselves forward through their commitment and dedication in the development of the communities around them. “It is indeed taking Lagos to an enviable level”. She added.

The election which had Alhaji Azeez Amusat, emerging as the Chairman with a total vote of 106 against his opponent; Mr Adesgun Olatunde who had 3 votes and Pastor Opajobi Samuel, who emerged with a total vote of 103 against his opponent; Mr Alli Moruf Ajanni, who had 3 votes, other vacant offices were ratified as they the contestants were unopposed.

Recall that the Governor of Lagos State Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu in August 2023 approved the dissolution of the last Executive Committee of the Council along with the Community Development Council (CDCs)/Community Development Associations (CDAs) across the 20 Local Government Areas and the 37 Local Council Development Areas, after holding the office for the period of two (2) year with the expiration of their tenure in 2019.