Lagos to strengthen grassroots governance as Sanwo-Olu commits to CDA collaboration

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with Community Development Associations (CDAs) to further enhance the quality of life across the state. Speaking through his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, at the 2025 Community Day Celebration held at the Police College, Ikeja, he said the annual event underscores the government’s dedication to deepening grassroots governance and promoting active citizen participation.

The celebration, organised by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, had the theme: “From Strength to Impact: Deepening Community Resilience.” Sanwo-Olu noted that the numerous self-help projects initiated and executed by communities have continued to build stronger and more resilient neighbourhoods.

He assured residents that his administration would sustain efforts to make Lagos a place where everyone can flourish. According to him, the government remains committed to deepening collaboration with CDAs, empowering communities, and supporting initiatives that improve the quality of life for all residents, regardless of location.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr Nurudeen Lanre-Agbaje, described the Community Day Celebration as an avenue to honour communities for their unity, sacrifice and resilience. He said this year’s theme encourages communities to go beyond resilience and pursue lasting impact through collaboration.

Lanre-Agbaje commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for prioritising rural development, noting that several community-driven projects have been completed to ensure no area is left behind. He stressed that such initiatives reflect the administration’s determination to bridge development gaps across the state.

Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government Administration, Chieftaincy, Aviation and Rural Development, Hon Ganiyu Sanni, said the celebration provides a platform to recognise the contributions of CDAs, traditional institutions, youth groups and women’s organisations, which he described as pillars of growth and stability.

Chairman of the Lagos State Community Development Advisory Council (LSCDAC), Azeez Amusat, also praised the administration’s efforts, saying the positive impact of government projects is evident across all local government areas. He presented an award to the governor on behalf of the council, which was received by the deputy governor.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of two brand-new 18-seater Hilux buses and two minibuses to the Best CDA, Best Rural CDA, Second Best Rural CDA, and the first and second runners-up. Several CDAs also received consolation cash prizes.