Residents across Lagos State have begun setting the agenda for newly elected local government chairmen, calling for urgent attention to critical areas such as waste management, security, road rehabilitation, and people centered empowerment.
Following the official swearing-in of the newly elected council officials, community leaders, civil society groups, and residents have taken to town hall meetings, radio phone-ins, and social media platforms to express their expectations for improved grassroots governance.
In Agege, residents emphasized the need for better waste disposal systems and flood control, especially as the rainy season intensifies.
“We are tired of blocked drainages and streets turned into lagoons after every rainfall,” said Abosede Ijagun, a roadside trader under pen cinema under bridge.
Similarly, in Ikorodu and Alimosho, road infrastructure topped the list of concerns.
Many inner streets, residents say, remain impassable and need immediate grading or paving.
“These roads are not just inconvenient, most especially while riding on a motorcycle (popularly known as okada), they’re also unsafe, especially at night,” noted Mrs. Ibijoke Alade, a resident of Idimu.
Security and youth unemployment were also major issues raised by residents in Eti-Osa and Oshodi-Isolo local government areas. Stakeholders called for increased support for neighborhood watch groups and the creation of community-based job and skill acquisition programmes.
A resident of Oshodi, who preferred anonymity complained bitterly about the wayward convergence of youths in the area,( a character trait that was visible to the sight as at the time of filling the report).
Speaking on the development, a public affairs analyst, Barr. Adeyemi Ibironke urged the chairmen to adopt inclusive governance.
“They must engage with residents regularly, publish progress reports, and prioritize the pressing needs of their communities.”
Being the closest tier of government to the people in the grassroots, they should engage directly with the people for meaningful development and growth.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to supporting local councils in delivering on their mandates.
In a statement, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs encouraged the newly elected officials to focus on service delivery and avoid unnecessary political distractions.
As Lagosians continue to express hope for meaningful change, expectations remain high that the new leadership at the grassroots will make a visible and lasting impact.
Radio Nigeria will continue to monitor developments across the 57 local councils and provide updates on the performance of the newly elected chairmen.