In a landmark move to deepen inclusive governance, the Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area under the leadership of Hon. Seyi Jakande, the Executive Chairman of the LCDA on Monday held its first-ever simultaneous ward-level stakeholders’ engagement across all nine wards, an event residents described as historic. 

The Executive Chairman along with his Vice Chairman, Hon. Niyi Awofogan attended all the nine wards in a convoy along with the Council management team. 

Addressing the stakeholders,  traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents at each of the 9 wards he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to participatory governance, noting that the gathering marked a new phase where every ward’s voice would be directly heard and integrated into the LCDA’s development blueprint.

The chairman highlighted key achievements within the administration’s first 100 days, listing extensive reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, drainage systems, and boreholes as part of efforts to improve infrastructure. Other completed or ongoing interventions include solar street lighting, aggressive drainage desilting, construction of a new Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Kayode, and a five-a-side football pitch in Ayantuga.

He further noted the council’s social support programmes such as free medical tourism, a back-to-school initiative, free feeding in all primary schools, provision of free GCE forms for indigent students, and free summer ICT training for young people.

Unveiling the proposed 2026 “Budget of Sustainability,” the chairman described it as more than financial tables and projections, but “a shared vision designed to uplift every resident.” He emphasized that each community has its unique needs, and the new budget process ensures these needs are captured accurately.

“The dividends of democracy must reach everyone. Under the HEWA agenda, no one will be left behind. This budget will reflect our shared dreams and ambitions,” he assured, urging residents to participate actively and offer feedback that would guide policy direction.

He also expressed gratitude to the legislative arm, finance directors, and management officials of the LCDA for their unwavering support and dedication to service.

Across the nine wards, stakeholders commended the chairman for sustaining the progressive pace set by his predecessor while introducing innovative governance practices. Many noted that taking the budget meeting to the wards—rather than gathering everyone at the council headquarters—has made the process more inclusive and aligned with residents’ real needs.

Community representatives described the initiative as a refreshing departure from past practices, adding that it has restored their confidence in local governance and improved the accuracy of budget capture.

With the new model of engagement, the LCDA hopes to strengthen grassroots participation, foster transparency, and build a development-driven budget that mirrors the true aspirations of the people.

Residents expressed optimism that the 2026 fiscal plan will accelerate progress and further position Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye as a model of unity, excellence, and good governance.