Abiodun presents SUVs to 20 LG chairmen

File Copy of Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun

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Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Thursday presented brand new Toyota Corolla Cross 2025 Sport Utility Vehicles to chairmen of the 20 local government areas in the state.

The presentation, which took place in Abeokuta, formed part of the Christmas festivities and drew expressions of appreciation from the council chairmen.

Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, the governor said the vehicles were provided to enhance effective governance and service delivery at the grassroots.

Abiodun commended the local government chairmen for partnering with his administration to deliver the dividends of democracy at the grassroots, assuring them of continued support to drive socio-economic development across the state.

He urged the chairmen to remain committed to excellence, accountability, and equitable development in their respective councils.

“Our administration is mindful of the challenges faced by people at the grassroots and the obstacles to delivering essential services,” the governor said.

“These vehicles have been provided to ensure swift and efficient outreach, in line with the demands of governance. This gesture underscores our resolve to strengthen grassroots administration and ensure rural communities enjoy good governance without impediment.”

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Ogun State Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria, Dr Folashade Adeyemo, lauded the governor for the gesture, describing it as a timely boost to local government administration during the Yuletide.

Adeyemo, who is also the Chairman of Odeda Local Government Area, praised Abiodun’s achievements in education, housing, healthcare, and road infrastructure, noting that his ISEYA development agenda had positioned the state on a positive trajectory.

She assured that local government chairmen would continue to collaborate with the state government to sustain development.

“This is a pleasant Christmas surprise and further proof that our governor is a promise keeper,” she said.

“These vehicles will enhance efficiency, especially in reaching remote communities, monitoring projects, and engaging directly with rural dwellers.”

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr Rotimiolu Akinlesi, appreciated the governor for providing the vehicles, noting that they would strengthen governance at the grassroots.

He urged the council chairmen to reciprocate the gesture through renewed commitment to serving their communities.

Meanwhile, local government administration in Nigeria continues to face challenges over autonomy, particularly financial independence, despite a landmark Supreme Court ruling in October last year directing state governments to grant full autonomy to local councils.

Although constitutionally recognised as the third tier of government, local governments remain largely dependent on state governments, a situation that has continued to hinder effective grassroots development and service delivery.

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