Ikorodu Local Government held its 2025 annual budget retreat on Saturday, December 21, 2024.
The event, held in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, served as a convergence point for key stakeholders, including members of the legislative arm, the executive team, and the council’s management staff. It was designed to foster collaboration among participants, ensuring that all arms of governance are aligned in their approach to addressing the needs of the community.
The gathering provided a platform for attendees to engage in meaningful discussions and develop strategic plans for the year ahead. By bringing together these critical stakeholders, the event aimed to establish a unified vision and actionable steps to drive progress and development in the region.
Themed “Budget of Consolidation,” the retreat, served as a strategic platform to align the council’s developmental goals with its financial priorities.
It provided an opportunity for robust dialogue on pressing issues and the formulation of actionable strategies to enhance governance and service delivery.
The retreat also emphasized the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in decision-making, reflecting the council’s commitment to driving sustainable growth across Ikorodu Local Government in the coming year.
Presided over by the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, Hon. Wasiu Adesina, the retreat, provided a platform to assess progress and develop strategies to advance the council’s developmental goals.
In his address, Hon. Wasiu Adesina reflected on the transformative journey since his assumption of office in 2015.
He shared: “When I assumed office, there was no proper structure or even a single file in place. We had to work diligently to put things right. ”
“I ensured that the salaries and allowances of former councillors and Baales were paid despite facing significant challenges like NEPA (electricity) debts. Over the years, we have achieved remarkable milestones.”
He highlighted the growth in the council’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), which was less than 5 million naira in 2015.
Through strategic efforts, the council increased its revenue base and now aims to achieve an ambitious target of 300 million naira by 2025.
He emphasized his efforts in digitizing receipts and financial documentation, which have enhanced the council’s revenue-generating capabilities.
Hon. Adesina stated the importance of collaboration among area officers and tasked the heads of the Revenue, Agriculture, and Health Departments with contributing to the council’s financial goals.
Adesina also unveiled plans to renovate the council’s external walls, aiming to create a more modern and visually appealing appearance.
“It is my desire to leave the secretariat in a far better state than I met it,” he added, urging all stakeholders to align with the vision for sustainable development.
The retreat featured a presentation by Dr. Olu Badejo, who discussed “Budget Discipline and Local Government Autonomy: The Issues, Challenges, and Prospects.”
Dr. Badejo emphasized the importance of proper planning in budgeting, warning against unrealistic, unnecessary, and wasteful expenditures.
He advised prioritizing budget items and fostering continuity in local government administration.
Speaking to Ikorodu News Network (INN), the Leader of the House, Hon. Adebowale Adebola commended the retreat as a progressive step towards growth and development for Ikorodu Local Government in 2025.
The retreat fostered renewed commitment and outlined a clear trajectory, positioning the council to build on its achievements and pursue further developmental strides in the coming year.
It was graced by the presence of prominent figures, including Aarebirin Hon. (Dr.) Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba, the Vice-Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, the APC Ikorodu LGA Chairman, Alhaji Waheed Animashun, and APC Ikorodu LGA Secretary, Ayanbadejo Kehinde.
Other distinguished attendees included Alhaji Waheed Omobowale, Alhaji Lamidi Folorunso, Alhaji Waheed Animashun Longe, and Alhaji Adewale Musliu Sulaimon, widely known as “Ola4.” Their participation underscored the importance of the retreat.
In addition to these key figures, ward chairmen, CDA/CDC chairmen, and representatives from NULGE were present, alongside other notable stakeholders.
Their collective attendance contributed to the event’s success, reflecting the strong support and commitment to the goals of the retreat.
INN-HOUSE☆ 