I inherited 21 ongoing projects – Lagos LCDA chair

Orile-Agege Local Council Development Area Chairman Akinola Idowu disclosed that his administration inherited 21 ongoing infrastructure and construction projects when they took office. Idowu assured that they would prioritize completing these projects instead of abandoning them. During a media briefing, he presented his administration's one-year scorecard, showcasing efforts to maintain inherited projects while introducing new initiatives in various sectors.

Idowu highlighted that the decision to focus on finishing inherited projects was made to ensure accountability and prevent public funds from being wasted. The chairman made this pledge when he first assumed office in July the previous year, promising that he would not let down the people of Orile-Agege. His philosophy revolves around the idea that government's role is not just to occupy offices but to improve lives.

Regarding infrastructure, Idowu explained that 21 projects were inherited, including road construction and rehabilitation in Egbatedo, Dada Akapo Street, and Bade Abiona. The council has also undertaken desilting of 12 drainage channels, construction of a primary healthcare center, renovation of three existing health centers, and building a borehole.

They are also constructing an "area office at Oyewole, an entrance arc at Olakrokun Street, rehabilitating the INEC office at Arigbanla Street, and reinforced concrete drainage construction at Ejire Lane.

In addition to infrastructure, Idowu mentioned interventions in education, healthcare, youth development, and security. In education, the council provided chairs, desks, learning materials, school uniforms, writing materials, and free JAMB and GCE forms to reduce financial burdens on parents. Under youth development, a two-week free Skills Boot Camp was conducted, training participants in various skills like photography, coding, drone piloting, AI animation, and renewable energy technology.

On healthcare, support was provided for measles-rubella vaccination, maternal and child health services, routine immunization, Vitamin A supplementation, and deworming. For sanitation, the council provides N2m monthly support to eight PSP operators, procured two waste compactors, waived waste bills from 1999 to 2022, and reduced arrears.

In economic empowerment, 200 residents receive N100,000 monthly through the council's empowerment program, and a N12m interest-free loan facility has been introduced under the PSP scheme. On security, the council has provided 4,000 streetlights across the LCDA, and discussions are ongoing on implementing CCTV surveillance.