The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots development with the presentation of five vehicles and several consolation prizes to outstanding Community Development Associations (CDAs) during the 2025 Annual Community Day Celebration.

Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu made the presentation in recognition of the CDAs’ dedication to self-help projects, community transformation and their sustained partnership with government in building a 21st-century Lagos.

Speaking on the theme of this year’s celebration, Sanwo-Olu described it as a renewed call for deeper commitment to community development across the state. He urged communities to tap into their resilience and collective strength to accelerate the growth of a forward-looking Lagos.

The governor emphasized that his administration will continue to strengthen its relationship with community leaders, describing CDAs as “dependable partners in progress.” He applauded their numerous grassroots initiatives, which he said have remained central to the state’s vision of a Greater Lagos.

“You are custodians of community harmony and champions of local development,” Sanwo-Olu said, praising their impact on the state’s social and economic foundation.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, noted that the annual celebration is dedicated to honouring the spirit of unity, sacrifice and resilience that defines Lagos communities. He thanked the governor for consistently supporting community-led development initiatives.

Agbaje highlighted key rural development projects undertaken by the Sanwo-Olu administration, including the rehabilitation of Onishon Road in Ibeju-Lekki, Lamidi Agoro/Ganiyu Odutan Street in Igbogbo-Baiyeku, Ijake Road in Ijanikin, Sanni Street in Amukoko, and several others. He also disclosed the distribution of 69 electric transformers and 27 solar-powered streetlights to rural communities within the last year.

The high point of the ceremony was the presentation of the Best Grassroots Governor Award to Governor Sanwo-Olu by the Lagos State Community Development Advisory Council, in recognition of his contributions to rural development.

Award Winners:

1st Prize (Bus): Iroko Estate CDA, Egbe-Idimu

2nd Prize (Bus): Nitel Estate CDA, Ikorodu

3rd Prize (Bus): Akinyele & Environs CDA

Best Rural Community: GuduGudu CDA

Second-Best Rural Community: Lagoon View CDA

Consolation Prizes: Ten CDAs received ₦1 million each

The event drew attendance from members of the Lagos State House of Assembly, top government functionaries, party stalwarts, traditional rulers and other dignitaries.