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The Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert and the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekini Lanre Agbaje have affirmed their readiness to ensure that the dividends of democracy extend to all the nooks and crannies of the State in line with the THEMES Plus Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
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Speaking at the maiden meeting with the Management and Staff of the Ministry on Monday, Robert disclosed that Mr. Governor has directed them to hit the ground running to ensure that every part of the State is livable, especially as efforts are focused on making Lagos a 21st Century Economy.
The Commissioner, a former Special Adviser in the Ministry and Chairman of Oto-Awori LCDA, noted that the Ministry is saddled with the responsibilities of initiating, formulating, executing, monitoring, and evaluating policies relating to Local Government Administration in all the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas in Lagos.
While adding that other responsibilities include overseeing Chieftaincy Affairs and enhancing relations with the Council of Obas and Chiefs, and Community Development Association, he solicited the cooperation of the staff towards all set goals and objectives of the Ministry.
Similarly, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekini Lanre Agbaje explained that restoring the Office of Rural Development to the Ministry is a pointer to the fact that Mr. Governor is so much interested in the development of the grassroots communities in the State.
He, therefore, called on Community Leaders, Community Development Associations and other stakeholders to key into the programmes of the administration geared towards the fulfilment of the collective aspirations of Lagosians who seek economically viable communities across the State.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa expressed the readiness of the workforce to support the Commissioner and the Special Adviser in achieving the set goals in the mandate of the Ministry.
She emphasised that the workforce is ready to ensure the successful implementation of the THEMES Plus agenda.