By Ganiyat Mumuni
The Executive Chairman of Igbogbo‑Baiyeku Local Council Development Area, Hameed Olalekan Aroyewun, has commissioned the reconstructed Oliwo Amoju and Olayinka streets, equipped with solar-powered streetlights and dual drainage systems.
The commissioning, which coincided with the chairman’s birthday, was described as a significant step toward addressing infrastructural challenges faced by residents and business owners within the community.
Speaking at the event, Aroyewun expressed excitement over the delivery of the projects, noting that he drew inspiration from leaders who had previously demonstrated commitment to grassroots development.
“When you have good leaders who are doing well, you just have to follow their footsteps. I followed the steps of The President and my leader, Babajimi Benson, and now people are asking for more,” he said.
He urged residents to take responsibility for maintaining the road and other amenities while assuring them of more developmental projects across the council area.
“The needs assessment has been conducted and the needs of the people have been addressed. I urge residents to take responsibility for maintaining these facilities and expect more good things to come,” he added.
A member of the House of Representatives representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, Babajimi Benson, commended the chairman for executing impactful projects at the grassroots level.
Benson also acknowledged the efforts of the Federal Government in strengthening local governance and praised the council for executing projects independently.
“He is the chairman of this LCDA and he is doing great things — roads, streetlights and other infrastructure. The streetlights will allow children to study when there is a power outage, reduce travel time for workers and enhance commerce. Indeed, this is a laudable project,” Benson said.
He further noted that Lagos State remains a model for grassroots governance and pledged continued support for local government development initiatives.
Former Senator, former Minister of Works and member of the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council (GAC), Adeseye Ogunlewe, also commended the chairman’s developmental strides but urged the council to invest more in education and scholarships for residents.
“We want you to sponsor our children for Masters and PhD programmes. Residents of Igbogbo want schools, scholarships and opportunities to dominate the academic world,” Ogunlewe said.
Residents at the event also expressed appreciation to the council chairman for executing projects across the community.
Speaking on behalf of residents, Pastor Samson Ogunrinde said the reconstruction of the road had brought relief to the community, noting that the previous condition of the road had posed serious challenges to commuters and residents.
He, however, appealed to the chairman to also consider the reconstruction of the Morekete and Link roads.
Another resident, Mr. Olayinka Oyediran, commended the chairman for facilitating the opening of a police station at Elepe, while urging him to fulfill promises made on road rehabilitation within the area.
Similarly, High Chief Odofin Fashola Abisoye Mutiu applauded the council boss but appealed for the reconstruction of Agbalumo and Olumo roads, describing road infrastructure as a major need in Ikorodu division.
Dignitaries present at the commissioning included traditional rulers, political leaders, religious leaders and government officials from across Ikorodu Division, including Abdul‑Samiu Orimadegun Kasali; Olorunfunmi Bashorun; council chairmen from neighbouring local governments; members of the legislative arm; management team of the LCDA; members of the Oba-in-Council; market leaders; religious leaders; and other stakeholders.
