Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reiterated that true democracy thrives at the grassroots, where governance has a direct impact on communities and lives are improved through inclusion and service delivery.
He made the remark on Friday during the inauguration of various people-focused projects in Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of Lagos State.
The projects commissioned include a legislative chamber, 21 newly completed roads, five primary health centres, three new primary schools, and a fire station, all designed to boost infrastructure, education, and emergency services within the LCDA.
Sanwo-Olu emphasised that local governments in Lagos operate autonomously and receive their full statutory allocations without interference from the state government.
“In Lagos, our local governments enjoy full autonomy. They get their complete allocation and are empowered to carry out meaningful projects that serve their communities,” the governor stated.
He commended the outgoing Bariga LCDA administration for its performance and challenged the incoming team to build on its achievements.
“Governance is a relay. I encourage the new administration to raise the bar and do even more for the people,” he added.
Highlighting the benefits of deepening grassroots democracy, Sanwo-Olu said the growing number of community projects across councils reflects tangible progress. He also paid tribute to past leaders whose efforts, he noted, laid the foundation for today’s advancements.
“These are the dreams of our forebears being fulfilled by men and women who led with vision and integrity,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of Bariga LCDA, Kolade Alabi, announced that some streets within the council had been renamed to honour contributors to its development. Among them, Community Road was renamed Babajide Sanwo-Olu Road in recognition of the governor’s support.
Sanwo-Olu praised the LCDA Chairman-elect, Aisha Adedeji, calling her a courageous leader ready to break new ground.
“Leadership is about vision, not gender. I believe she will not only match her predecessor’s strides but make her own mark with grace and impact,” he said.
Dignitaries from government, the private sector, and community organisations attended the event.
(NAN)