The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, on Thursday presented Toyota Corolla Cross 2025 SUVs to the chairmen of the 20 local government areas in the state.

The presentation of the brand-new vehicles in Abeokuta on Thursday added to the festive mood of the Christmas season, as the chairmen expressed appreciation to the governor for the gesture.

Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, Governor Abiodun said the vehicles were provided to enhance effective governance at the grassroots.

The governor lauded the chairmen for being worthy partners in delivering the dividends of democracy at the grassroots and pledged that his administration would continue to support local governments to enhance socio-economic development in the state.

He urged the local government chairmen to remain dedicated to excellence in grassroots governance and committed to promoting equitable growth and development across their councils.

He said, “Our administration is aware of the challenges faced by our people at the grassroots and the obstacles confronting government in delivering essential services.

“These vehicles have therefore been provided to facilitate swift and efficient outreach to the grassroots, as required by the demands of governance.

“This gesture also underscores our determination to ensure that grassroots governance thrives in the state and that rural dwellers enjoy good governance without impediments.”

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Ogun State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Folashade Adeyemo, lauded Governor Abiodun for the provision of the vehicles, describing it as a boost to the Yuletide celebrations.

Adeyemo, who also serves as the Chairman of Odeda Local Government, commended the governor’s achievements across key sectors, including education, housing, healthcare and road infrastructure.

She said the governor’s ISEYA mantra had elevated the state’s development profile and assured that local government chairmen would continue to collaborate with the state government to make Ogun a model state.

She said: “This is no doubt a pleasant surprise that came during Christmas, making the celebration even more memorable. It further shows that our hardworking governor is a promise-keeper.

“The chairmen are very grateful for this support, and it is a call on all of us to do more for our people, even as we continue to support the good work Governor Abiodun has been doing for over six years.

“These vehicles will significantly enhance efficiency. As local governments are closest to rural communities, this mobility will aid in reaching remote areas, monitoring projects and engaging effectively with the people.”

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr Rotimiolu Akinlesi, appreciated the governor for providing the utility vehicles, noting that the gesture would further strengthen grassroots governance.

Dr Akinlesi urged the chairmen to reciprocate the support of the state government by deepening their commitment to serving people at the grassroots.

Meanwhile, local government administration in Nigeria continues to face challenges over autonomy, particularly financial independence, despite a Supreme Court ruling in October last year directing state governments to grant local governments autonomy.

Although constitutionally recognised as the third tier of government, local governments largely remain dependent on, and often controlled by, state governments, a situation that has continued to hinder effective grassroots development and service delivery.

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