The push for stronger collaboration between community leaders and government took centre stage on Thursday, September 18, 2025, when Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Rural Development, addressed Community Development Associations (CDAs) and Community Development Committees (CDCs) in Ikorodu Division.
Speaking at the Ikorodu Local Government Secretariat Hall, venue of the Stakeholders’ Interactive Meeting (Ikorodu Division), Dr. Agbaje stressed that Lagos State’s ambitious grassroots development agenda can only succeed when community stakeholders actively engage with government programmes and policies.
He urged CDA and CDC executives to keep residents informed and to act as a bridge between government and the people.
“Policies and projects can only meet real needs when communities remain alert and responsive,” the Special Adviser said, calling on participants to sustain regular communication with local and state authorities.
Dr. Agbaje also underscored the importance of civic participation, encouraging community leaders to mobilise eligible residents for the ongoing voter registration exercise.
According to him, “our influence as a people begins with the right to vote; it is the foundation for meaningful representation and stronger advocacy.”
Security concerns featured prominently in his address. He called for closer cooperation between neighbourhoods and security agencies, including the police, community policing outfits, and vigilante groups, to deter crime and protect lives and property across Ikorodu Division.
Highlighting Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to inclusive governance, Dr. Agbaje reminded participants that the Office of Rural Development remains a direct channel for communities to submit requests on infrastructure, social services, and other pressing needs for prompt government attention.
The interactive session provided a platform for community leaders to table issues ranging from road maintenance and waste management to youth employment. Council officials present responded with assurances of follow-up action and pledged ongoing collaboration.
Dr. Agbaje commended Prince Adedayo Ladega, Executive Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government, for championing the engagement and providing a forum for open dialogue between government representatives and community stakeholders.
Prince Ladega, in his remarks, reaffirmed the council’s dedication to sustainable rural development, pledging continued partnership with CDAs and CDCs to ensure that the needs of residents remain a priority in government planning.
INN-HOUSE☆ 