By LaRoyal:
The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development— from the Office of Rural Development led by Hon. Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Assistant to His Excellency Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwoolu on Rural Development has convened an interactive meeting for stakeholders in the Ikorodu division on Thursday, September 18th, 2025. The event took place at the Ikorodu Local Government Secretariat Hall, situated on T.O.S. Benson Road, Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria.
The meeting, which involved Community Development Association (CDA) Chairpersons and Community Development Committee (CDC) representatives from the Ikorodu division, was themed “Understanding the CDA Constitution for Effective Community Governance.”
Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution highlights the concept of Freedom of Association, which delineates the responsibility of each CDA to establish its own constitution, rules, and bylaws.
Community Development Associations serve as local entities designed to address the specific needs of their communities. The Lagos State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs oversees local government affairs, including the management of Community Development Associations. While the Ministry provides guidance, each CDA is encouraged to develop its governing documents in accordance with the aforementioned constitutional provision.
In a goodwill message delivered during the meeting, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje acknowledged the significant contributions of all CDA Chairpersons and CDC members, expressing gratitude for their time, insights, and their essential role as intermediaries between the government and grassroots communities. Dr. Agbaje underscored the value of their selfless service.
The primary objective of this stakeholders’ meeting was to listen to community needs and convey these insights to the State government for appropriate action. Dr. Agbaje encouraged CDA and CDC members to collaborate with the Ikorodu Division Local Government Area Executive Chairman and the Council Chairpersons within the Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Ikorodu Division. This approach aims to facilitate the exchange of critical information and attract opportunities from various levels of government, as directives from the Federal Government guide State practices, which, in turn, inform local governance.
Dr. Agbaje emphasized the importance of receiving feedback directly from community sources, as this is crucial for government decision-making. He highlighted that His Excellency Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwoolu values the roles of CDA and CDC Executives and assured the audience that community requests from the Ikorodu division would be prioritized.
Additionally, Dr. Agbaje proposed the formation of a committee to conduct a thorough review of the CDA constitution. He suggested that involving legal experts in this examination would facilitate necessary amendments. He stated, “If it has been established that certain provisions could lead to discord within our community, it is imperative that we address this,” urging stakeholders to keep him informed to expedite the amendment process.
Furthermore, he reminded attendees to remain vigilant regarding the Nigerian Constitution, noting that public criticism often arises from diverse sources. He encouraged the audience to exercise their legal rights and to foster a unified understanding of the constitution for the benefit of all community residents. Dr. Agbaje’s remarks were complemented by a presentation from Mr. Owolawi Rotimi, which focused on the importance, purpose, scope, and implications of comprehending the CDA constitution.
Hon. Prince Abdullateef Adedayo Ladega, Executive Chairman of Ikorodu LGA, also delivered a goodwill message, expressing appreciation to the CDA and CDC members, stating, “You serve as the backbone and a vital resource for reaching the grassroots.” He referenced his recent listening tour across the seven geopolitical wards of Ikorodu LGA, where he engaged with community members to comprehend their needs and requests as articulated by the CDA Chairpersons.
In a goodwill speech delivered by Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, who was represented by Mrs. Adeniji Oluwatoyin, the Director of Community Development, special recognition was given to the members of the Community Development Committee (CDC) and Executive Committee of the Community Development Association (CDA) for their ongoing support of community development initiatives within the Ikorodu division. Their contributions have proven invaluable, particularly in supporting the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Agbaje, who represents this constituency at the State level.
It was emphasized that this interactive session serves as a vital platform for discussing and addressing community issues, further solidifying the relationship between the government and local stakeholders.
Said, whatever lessons or information are gathered here should be shared with our community. This way, we can ensure a peaceful and harmonious community in Lagos State. “We have also noticed that most of the petitions we receive from the ministry stem from a lack of adequate knowledge about the CDA Constitution.”
The CDA Constitution was initiated by the Lagos State government in 2008 and not by the P.S. or the S.A. It has existed to prevent conflicts within our communities. Mrs. Adeniji Oluwatoyin, the Director of Community Development, clarified.
During the Health Education segment, Mrs. Obikunle Olamide, Health Educator of Ikorodu LGA, emphasised the dangers of infodemics and misinformation. She urged participants to be mindful of their information sources and to avoid spreading unverified or misleading information, whether from social media, newspapers, or through word of mouth.
“Always verify the source of your information before sharing,” she said, “because there is information, misinformation, and malinformation.”
Spoke about some programs that benefit the community and society in general. Talked to mothers about their daughters who are around 9 years old. Said Human Papillomavirus (HPV) advocacy is scheduled to kick off next week. Children aged 9 are eligible for this immunization program. “If you are not sure of the source of your information, please do not share, she said.
Mrs. Gimba Philomena posed an observational question: “Are we truly practicing the CDA constitution? Addressing this should be a key resolution at the CDA Constitution level in the Ikorodu Division.”
Mr. Gbadamosi Adewale, Treasurer of CDC Igbogbo Bayeku LCDA, also stated in his feedback that identifying problems related to the CDA’s registration is essential to address.
The CDA Chairman of Iowa, Mr. Bolaji Odubitan, Coordinator of the Zone One CDAs in Ikorodu LGA, stated in his feedback that reviewing the activities report, particularly the financial aspect, is very important. He emphasised that only three executive members—the Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer—should be authorised signatories.
These are some of the questions and observations raised at the Ikorodu Divisional Stakeholders’ Interactive Meeting.
The Power Holding Company of Lagos State, through the Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company led by Engr. Giwa, conducted a sensitisation session on “Safety and Technical Concerns Affecting the Ikorodu Divisional Business Unit.”— Hon. Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje engaged them for the subsequent programme of the Interactive Stakeholders’ meeting.
Group pictures will be taken afterwards.
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