On September 19, 2024, the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Ikorodu Chapter, hosted an engaging and informative Q&A session with the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Hon. Wasiu Adesina.
The session, held at the council’s conference room, was attended by NIM executive members, the local government’s cabinet, and staff.
Coordinated by NIM’s acting secretary, Barrister Omolola Jakaiye, the event provided a platform to discuss critical issues such as transparency, governance challenges, and future aspirations for the local government.
Responding to the first questions from NIM on transparency and accountability, Hon. Adesina reiterated his administration’s dedication to upholding financial integrity.
He explained that the council frequently holds meetings and engages both internal and external auditors to review its financial practices.
Acknowledging that no system is perfect, he emphasized that the council has consistently been rated positively for its commitment to transparency.
“We might not be perfect, but we have received commendations for our openness and financial clarity,” the chairman stated.
Responding to a follow-up question from NIM on the challenges facing his administration, Hon. Adesina outlined several obstacles, particularly financial constraints, as Ikorodu Local Government operates alongside five other Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) within Lagos State.
He noted that while funding remains a key issue, strategic partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private stakeholders have helped the local government mitigate some of these challenges.
One of the key innovations of Hon. Adesina’s administration has been the digitization of revenue collection systems, which has significantly improved efficiency.
The chairman highlighted how this initiative has closed previous loopholes, resulting in a substantial increase in revenue—from ₦5 million to an annual revenue of ₦300 million.
He also mentioned how new revenue-generating methods, including taxation of previously untaxed activities like sand-laden tipper trucks and levies on indigene status requests, have contributed to this financial growth.
When asked about improving performance, the chairman emphasized the significance of performance indicators, noting that resident feedback channels and stakeholder engagement are vital tools for assessing the administration’s effectiveness.
“We open ourselves to feedback from the public and criticism from the press to identify areas for improvement,” he said.
Hon. Adesina explained that his administration does not see itself in competition with other local governments but remains focused on delivering quality service to the people under his jurisdiction.
Among the administration’s notable achievements, Hon. Adesina highlighted the completion of over 50 road surfacing projects and the construction of durable, covered drainage systems to ensure longevity.
He also pointed out the decongestion and transformation of the popular Sabo Market, which had previously been a chaotic and overcrowded space.
Additionally, the provision of 20 boreholes with treated water for various ward communities was another milestone, along with ongoing efforts to upgrade the Agura Primary Healthcare Centre into a 24-hour facility to improve healthcare services in the area.
When questioned about youth empowerment initiatives, Hon. Adesina detailed his administration’s commitment to youth engagement and development, outlining various programs aimed at fostering entrepreneurship among young people.
He stated that the establishment of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Ikorodu LG Chapter, under his leadership, has provided a formal platform for youth to express their concerns and ideas, with follow-up projects that foster collaboration.
He explained that, within his current administration, 30% of cabinet positions are held by young people. He also revealed that Ikorodu is among the first local governments to empower youths with mini-buses to support their entrepreneurial ventures.
In the area of education, Hon. Adesina spoke of his administration’s dedication to helping local youths access higher education and employment.
Recently, 20 youths, facilitated by the local government, received their admission letters from Lagos State University.
Earlier in the year, a group of youths was sponsored to the UK to study agriculture, with plans to send a second batch soon.
The chairman also revealed that the local government is planning to acquire hectares of land in Epe to involve more youths in agricultural practices.
Hon. Adesina further highlighted the administration’s efforts in building and renovating schools to create a more conducive learning environment for students in Ikorodu.
“We understand that the future belongs to the youth, and we are investing in their education and empowerment,” the chairman asserted.
Addressing staff welfare, Hon. Adesina outlined various measures his administration has implemented to improve the work environment for local government employees.
He revealed that cars have been distributed to heads of departments, and offices have been equipped with modern furniture and computers.
As the chairman outlined his achievements during the grilling session, images showcasing his work performance were projected on a screen.
Additionally, performance incentives are regularly provided to boost staff morale, with monthly awards for the best-performing employees.
He also mentioned that under his administration, the council building, which has been in existence for over 40 years, was reroofed with modern materials, ensuring the safety and comfort of both staff and visitors, especially during the rainy season.
“We made sure that the council’s environment is conducive for work, which directly reflects on staff performance,” he remarked.
As the session neared its conclusion, Adesina was questioned about a succession plan for the next council chairman.
He stated that this responsibility should rest with the region’s apex leaders, as they are best suited to guide and mentor future successors.
In his closing remarks, the Acting Chairman of NIM Ikorodu Chapter, Mr. Alex N. Onwodi, commended Hon. Adesina for the administration’s feedback mechanisms, which have played a significant role in fostering growth and continuous improvement in the council’s operations.
He also praised the chairman for his leadership style, which emphasizes teamwork and collaboration. Mr. Onwodi encouraged Hon. Adesina to remain focused, reminding him that consistency and perseverance are key to achieving long-term success in governance.
The Q&A session provided a comprehensive overview of Hon. Wasiu Adesina’s achievements in office and his vision for the future.
By addressing critical issues such as financial transparency, youth engagement, infrastructure development, and staff welfare, the session highlighted the local government’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth and improving the quality of life for Ikorodu’s residents.
INN-HOUSE☆ 