Alhaji Tijani Kamal-deen Babatunde Ajalogun, a prominent chairmanship aspirant in Ikorodu, has called on local governments to take a more active role in maintaining roads constructed by federal and state governments.
He stressed the importance of this responsibility in ensuring the longevity of critical infrastructure, during a special interview on My Mentor’s Corner with Prince Ganny Awobajo, Chief Editor of Ikorodu News, on Monday, 23rd September 2024.
During the interview, Ajalogun praised the infrastructural developments spearheaded by Ikorodu Federal Lawmaker, Hon. Babajimi Benson, MHR, commending his recent inspection of road projects within the Ikorodu region.
Benson had recently overseen the progress of Asolo Road within the Ikorodu West Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and the 4.5-kilometer road stretching from Abule-Eko to Ewu-Owa in Ijede LCDA.
Ajalogun expressed strong support for the projects, highlighting the crucial role played by both federal and state governments in initiating much-needed infrastructure in the area.
However, he emphasized that the task of maintaining these roads falls primarily on local governments, who must ensure the projects are well-maintained after completion.
“While the federal government delivers on the dividends of democracy through projects like these, it is up to local governments to maintain them,” Ajalogun stated.
“Without proper upkeep, these roads can deteriorate prematurely, leading to a waste of resources and reduced community benefits.”
Ajalogun believes it requires coordinated efforts from all levels of government to ensure successful outcomes.
“It takes collective efforts from all arms of government to enhance performance and achieve lasting results,” he noted, underscoring his commitment to focusing on road maintenance if elected as the next chairman of Ikorodu Local Government.
He further outlined his vision for a more proactive approach to road upkeep, pledging to strengthen local government capacity in this area.
“Local authorities must remain vigilant in maintaining roads to safeguard public investments in infrastructure, ensuring that these projects stand the test of time,” he added.
His comments come at a critical juncture, as residents of Ikorodu continue to express their concerns about the condition of roads in the area, calling for improved intervention by local governments.
“My vision demonstrates the need for a more integrated approach among government tiers to ensure that newly constructed roads remain durable, well-managed, and beneficial to the community in the long term,” Ajalogun explained.
With local elections on the horizon, Ajalogun’s emphasis on road maintenance resonates with the broader need for responsible governance and enhanced public service delivery in Ikorodu.
He affirmed, “My road maintenance emphasis reflects a broader commitment to responsible governance and improved public services.”
As the race for the Ikorodu Local Government chairmanship intensifies, Ajalogun’s pledge to prioritize road maintenance shows his readiness to address one of the region’s most pressing concerns.
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