Alhaji Fatai Ayoola, the Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State, has urged his successor to build on the gains of grassroots governance by implementing programmes that directly impact positively on the residents.
Ayoola made the call on Monday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
He urged Mr Olalekan Akindipe, winner of the just-concluded chairmanship election in the council area to also build bridges that would bind the community stronger.
The outgoing chairman said that the progress recorded in the council area in last three years resulted from consistent engagements with the people and focus on projects that addressed their most pressing needs.
“My advice to the incoming chairman is simple: stay close to the people. Let your programmes reflect their daily struggles and aspirations.
“Build a legacy that will outlive you, support traders, invest in security and sanitation,” he said.
According to him, the legacy of any local government administration lies not on the number of contracts awarded but on how well the people feel the impact of the leadership.
Ayoola, who listed his administration’s achievements in education, primary healthcare, road rehabilitation and youth empowerment, said it had laid a strong foundation that could be built on.
“We were not perfect, but we did our best with resources available. I believe the next administration will do even better,” he added.
The chairman also appealed to residents of the area to support the incoming leadership with constructive feedbacks and cooperation.
“Leadership is not magic. It takes unity, patience and sacrifice.
” I call on our traditional rulers, market leaders, youth groups and religious organisations to work with the incoming chairman to move Ajeromi-Ifelodun forward,” he said. (NAN)
