THE Igando-Ikotun Local Council Development Area (LCDA) under the leadership of the Executive Chairman, Senior Comrade Lasisi Ayinde Akinsanya, on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, completed the Year 2025 Budget retreat at Osmak Hotel, Alao Akala Expressway, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The retreat, themed "Budget of Sustainable Continuity," brought together stakeholders to discuss and finalise the council's budget for the Year 2025.
The event kicked off with a keynote address by the Executive Chairman, who emphasised the importance of sustainable continuity in the council's budget. He highlighted the need for prudent management of resources and encouraged participants to think critically about how to allocate funds to achieve maximum impact.
While appreciating the council's revenue officers for their commitment and dedication to duty, the council's Helmsman charged them to be more committed and intensify their efforts in the Year 2025 revenue drive.
He stated the need for increased revenue collection capacity to ensure the financial independence and sustainability of the council.
"Our goal for 2025 is not just to meet revenue targets but to surpass them, ensuring that we have the resources to invest in critical infrastructure and community development," the Chairman stated.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Council-Manager, Engineer Mojeed Shamson Adio, expressed his delight at the turnout. He emphasised the significance of the retreat in shaping the council's budget and encouraged participants to actively engage in the discussions.
The retreat featured a lecture on "Understanding Public Procurement Law and Procedures" by Mr Taofiki Oluwakemi Ambali, a Director of Procurement with the Lagos State Government Service Commission. The lecture provided valuable insights into the procurement process and highlighted the importance of compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
Another lecture, titled, "Budget Compliance and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development," delivered by Mr Waheed Tijani, a retired Council Manager with Lagos State Local Government Service Commission as Director of Budget, Planning, and Statistics, stressed the need for budget compliance and explained the importance of sustainable socio-economic development in the council's budget.
In addition to the lectures and discussions, the retreat also included activities aimed at promoting team spirit and wellness among individuals. Each morning began with an aerobic exercise session, which helped attendees start the day on an energetic note.
The retreat culminated in a Gala Night at the poolside of Osmak Hotel, where participants enjoyed food, 'Asun', music, and dancing, creating an opportunity for networking and informal discussions about the future of the council.
Overall, the retreat proved to be a valuable experience, equipping Igando-Ikotun LCDA officials with the knowledge and motivation to successfully execute the 2025 budget and deliver on their promises to the community. With expert insights into procurement, budget compliance, and revenue generation, participants left the event with a renewed sense of purpose and a collective determination to ensure the sustainable growth of the local government area.
