IKOSI-ISHERI LCDA CALLS FOR SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION THROUGH STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

The Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Princess Abolanle Bada, recently called for collective stakeholder engagement for a sustainable economic transformation in the Local Council Development Area.

She made the call in her welcome address at a stakeholders parley held at the Council, disclosing that collaboration and collective action were key to navigating growth and development in the various communities.

Emphasising the importance of collaboration and collective action, she highlighted the LCDA’s achievements in various areas, including roads and infrastructure, healthcare and environment, social welfare, education, youth empowerment, and tourism.

According to Bada, “We are excited to introduce a new focus on housing as part of our future projects. Housing is not just about providing shelter; it is about creating safe, sustainable, and thriving communities. By prioritising housing, we can address one of the most fundamental needs of our citizens and lay the foundation for sustainable economic growth”.

Princess Bada reiterated the LCDA’s commitment to providing security, infrastructure, health safety, and a hazard-free environment to support businesses and foster a prosperous community. She underscored the importance of continued collaboration, transparency, and accountability, and thanked stakeholders for their support.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso commended Ikosi-Isheri LCDA boss for focusing on more than just basic tasks like cleaning drainage and gutters.

He stated that local governments have the potential to contribute significantly to the economy and manage their finances effectively. This shift in responsibility, according to him, is attributed to President Bola Tinubu’s administration, who has increased funding for local governments.

Applauding Princess Abolanle Bada’s leadership in Ikosi-Isheri LCDA for showcasing the untapped potential of local governments, Omotoso urged residents to support their Local Government by fulfilling their civic duties, such as paying taxes and keeping the environment clean.

Mrs Yetunde Arobieke, former Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment said that the importance of stakeholders’ engagement was to close the gap between the local government and citizens.

She commended Princess Abolanle Bada, for initiating a dialogue with stakeholders, highlighting the need for citizens to communicate their needs and issues to the local government for effective solutions.

Arobieke stressed the significance of citizens moving closer to their local government to facilitate better communication and problem-solving.

While delivering his lecture paper, on the theme “Sustainable Economic Transformation Through Stakeholders Engagement”, Hon. Rotimi Olowo, a former member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, emphasised the importance of collaboration and inclusive Government in achieving economic sustainability and holistic development in Lagos.

Olowo highlighted the need for collaboration between various stakeholders, including the Government, residents, and local government chairmen, to address the needs of the people. He praised initiatives like town hall meetings, which gather input from constituents for development projects, advocating for sustained engagement with the community beyond annual budget processes.

The Stakeholders Parley provided a platform for open discussion, encouraging community engagement and shared responsibility. Attendees shared ideas and insights on how to enhance residents’ quality of life, promote sustainable development, and build strong public-private partnerships.