By Adekunle Williams
The Chairman, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government, Mr Olalekan Olu-Akindipe, has inaugurated major infrastructural projects and empowered thousands of residents in the area.
Olu-Akindipe said this on Wednesday in Lagos at the grand finale of the activities commemorating his one year in office.
The chairman said the projects included Maracana Footbridge, Ajasa Motorable Bridge, Mokoya Motorable Bridge, Oluwa Nursery and Primary School, Umeriro St., three solar-powered boreholes in Wards B, H and I.
He said: “A major inauguration of the day was the newly-completed Oluwa Street, performed by the APC Deputy Governorship Candidate, Lagos State, Mrs Damilola Sanayon.
“Her presence and participation in the inauguration added significance to the occasion and underscored the importance of the project to residents of the community.”
He said his administration also empowered residents through cash grants, distribution of various equipment, enabling beneficiaries to establish or strengthen small-scale businesses and improve their livelihoods.
Olu-Akindipe said he assumed office prepared and focused, with a clear determination to deliver projects and programmes that would have a direct and meaningful impact on the people.
“Today is not merely a celebration of one year in office. It is an opportunity to reflect on the journey so far, appreciate the progress recorded.
“The event is also to recognise the collective efforts behind these achievements and renew our commitment to the development of our local government,” he said.
“Within one year of assuming office, my administration has implemented interventions across critical sectors.
“These include infrastructure, education, healthcare, environmental sanitation, youth development, women development, social welfare and human capital development.”
Olu-Akindipe assured residents that he would continue to implement projects and programmes to improve their quality of life and drive sustainable development across Ajeromi-Ifelodun.
He expressed appreciation to the residents for their support, prayers and cooperation, stressing that their continued partnership remained essential to achieving greater development.
“To the good people of Ajeromi-Ifelodun, I say one year is just the beginning. With your continued support, prayers and partnership, we shall take our Local Government to greater heights,” he added.
According to the chairman, the empowerment programme included the distribution of 50 deep freezers, 50 industrial machines, and 50 stone-processing machines.
Other items included 25 welding machines, 25 shoe-making machines, 100 cake mixers and 25 vulcanising machines.
The beneficiaries also received 100 make-up kits and accessories, 50 solar generators, chairs and a standard canopy.
Additionally, the council distributed 3,000 bags of 10kg rice and ₦10,000 cash to widows and elderly residents.
He said the empowerment initiative reflected his commitment to grassroots development, inclusive growth and people-oriented governance.
According to him, beneficiaries were selected after officials visited communities to identify residents’ needs across the local government.
“Our criteria for choosing beneficiaries differed. A documentary was shown on how we visited different streets and every nook and cranny,” he said.
Olu-Akindipe commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying increased allocations had strengthened local governments’ capacity to deliver development.
“Unlike before, we are no longer facing serious financial burdens. The JAAC allocation that comes in is very huge,” he said.
The chairman expressed appreciation to Tinubu for the Renewed Hope Agenda and its focus on development at all levels of government.
Olu-Akindipe reiterated that the first year was only the beginning of greater achievements for Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government.
Prince Rabiu Oluwa, a member of the Lagos State Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), applauded the chairman’s achievements and expressed confidence in his administration.
Also, Oba Moruf Oluwa, the Olu of Iwa and Apapa Kingdom, prayed for the chairman and pledged continued support for the administration.
The immediate past Chairman of the Council, Mr Fatai Ayoola, also commended the achievements recorded by the present administration and wished the chairman greater success in the years ahead.
Mrs Shola Adekoya, a fish seller and beneficiary of a deep freezer, commended the council chairman for empowering women and youths.
Adekoya urged other local governments across the state to emulate the initiative and strengthen efforts to reduce poverty.
She noted that the financial assistance and equipment would provide them with opportunities to start, expand and sustain their businesses.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event attracted dignitaries from the state and federal levels, traditional rulers, political leaders, stakeholders, residents.
The one year anniversary celebration provided an opportunity for the administration to showcase its achievements and reaffirm its commitment to purposeful leadership, inclusive development and service to the people. (NAN)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo