By: Abiodun Okuboyejo 

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in Ogun State, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, has described the commissioning of projects at the grassroots level as a deliberate step in achieving inclusive development, improved service delivery and the empowerment of rural communities.

Hon. Hamzat made this known during the commissioning of people-oriented projects in Odogbolu Local Government Area of the State, where several infrastructural projects were delivered to enhance the well-being of residents.

He emphasised that grassroots projects were not only essential for daily living but they were important in stimulating local economies, improving educational outcomes and raising the overall standard of living.

According to him; ‘’development at the grassroots reflects the true essence of governance and it is imperative for Local Government Chairmen to cascade State-level development to the local level. I sincerely appreciate Prince Dapo Abiodun, for continuously supporting all 20 Local Government Chairmen across Ogun State to implement impactful projects. The dividends of democracy must reach every nook and cranny of the State,” he said.

The Commissioner noted that improving educational infrastructure, promoting access to quality learning and creating a conducive environment for both teachers and students have been central to the present administration developmental agenda.

He urged community members to take ownership of the projects and embrace a culture of maintenance to ensure their long-term sustainability and continued impact.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of Odogbolu Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Diya, noted that the projects were not only designed to meet current needs but are strategic investments in the future of generations yet unborn.

He noted that education remained the bedrock of any progressive society, hence, the priority his administration offered and invested in the sector.

According to him, "an educated population is key to sustainable development, and every effort made to uplift the standard of education today is an investment in the future of the community and the state at large".

     “The projects being commissioned today exemplify the spirit of collaboration and remind us of what we can achieve when united for a shared purpose,” Hon. Diya said.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Parent Teachers Association (PTA), Mr. Muyideen Zakariya, and Mr. Adebayo Andu respectively commended the Chairman for the initiative, noting that the renovated facilities would significantly improve learning conditions, assuring that the school would protect and maintain the infrastructure.

  The commissioned projects include, the reconstruction of a block of two classrooms at Christ Anglican Church Primary School, Eyindi, Ikosa, Odogbolu; Renovation of a Block of Two Classrooms at St Matthew Primary School, Imodi; construction of a solar-powered borehole and electrification at the Local Government Education Authority; and the construction of six units of toilet facilities, among others.