The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots development by awarding ₦1 million each to outstanding Community Development Associations (CDAs) during the 2025 Community Day Celebration.
The colourful event was held on Wednesday, December 4, 2025, at the Police College, Ikeja, with thousands of community leaders, stakeholders, and government officials in attendance.
The ceremony was presided over by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Kadri Hamzat, who represented the Executive Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
In his remarks, Dr. Hamzat praised the unwavering dedication of Lagos communities to self-help initiatives, noting that grassroots participation remains a cornerstone of the THEMES Plus Agenda.
Dignitaries present included Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, wife of the Lagos State Governor; Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, Lagos APC Chairman; Hon. Bolaji Kayode Roberts, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development; royal fathers; community leaders; and various senior government officials.
One of the highpoints of the celebration was the presentation of ₦1 million each to CDAs that executed notable self-help projects within the year.
The cheques were presented by Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development.
Dr. Agbaje emphasized that the financial support serves as both a reward and an incentive to foster sustainable development across communities.
“This support is a testament to the Lagos State Government’s recognition of community-driven projects.”
“Through the Office of Rural Development, we remain committed to strengthening grassroots institutions and advancing initiatives that align with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda,” he said.
Assisting him in presenting the rewards was Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development.
Among the CDAs honoured for their developmental strides were:
Peace Estate CDA, Eti-Osa LCDA
Isaja Ijagemo CDA, Iba LCDA
Ifesowapo Shasha CDA, Alimosho LG
Oke Agbo Central CDA, Imota LCDA
Olorunleke Agbegbein Eleso Phase II CDA, Oto-Awori LCDA
Allahum Uzomba CDA, Oriade LCDA
…and several other high-performing CDAs across the state.
In addition to the cash rewards, the event witnessed the presentation of brand new buses and water supply tricycles to select CDAs adjudged as the best-performing in their respective categories.
These assets are expected to boost community mobility, support local projects, and enhance access to potable water.
The 2025 Community Day also featured exhibitions of community-led projects, and testimonials from past beneficiaries, showcasing the pivotal role CDAs play in security, environmental sanitation, infrastructure maintenance, and social cohesion.
The Lagos State Government reiterated that it will continue to empower CDAs as vital partners in driving inclusive governance, strengthening local infrastructure, and improving the overall quality of life for residents across all 57 LGAs and LCDAs.
INN-HOUSE☆ 