The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots development with the presentation of five brand-new vehicles to outstanding Community Development Associations (CDAs) for exceptional self-help projects during the 2025 Annual Community Day Celebration.
Speaking at the event, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the vehicles were a token of appreciation for the CDAs’ unwavering commitment to improving their communities and advancing the State’s vision of a 21st Century Economy. He urged communities to embrace renewed responsibility, resilience, and collaboration, describing CDAs as “dependable partners in progress” whose initiatives continue to drive the Greater Lagos agenda.
Sanwo-Olu commended the CDAs for their persistent self-help efforts, noting that they remain custodians of community harmony and champions of local transformation who strengthen the social and economic fabric of the State.
In his welcome address, the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, said the annual celebration honours the unity, sacrifice, and resilience that fuel grassroots progress. He praised the Governor for prioritising rural development through numerous community-focused projects across Lagos, including the rehabilitation of roads in Ibeju-Lekki, Igbogbo-Baiyeku, Ijanikin, Amukoko, and Ikorodu; as well as grading works in Isiwu and Ikola-Ilumo.
Agbaje disclosed that within one year, the administration delivered 69 transformers and 27 solar-powered streetlights to rural communities, adding that continued collaboration among CDAs, CDCs, and the Advisory Council has resulted in visible, people-centred development.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, in her vote of thanks, applauded the Governor for his sustained support for grassroots development. She urged the CDAs and CDCs to carry the spirit of unity and commitment demonstrated at the event into future community initiatives.
A major highlight of the celebration was the presentation of the Best Grassroots Governor Award to Governor Sanwo-Olu by the Lagos State Community Development Advisory Council in recognition of his contributions to rural development.
Iroko Estate CDA (Egbe-Idimu) emerged overall best and received the star prize of a bus, while Nitel Estate CDA (Ikorodu) and Akinyele & Environs CDA won second and third positions, respectively. GuduGudu CDA was named Best Rural Community, with Lagoon View CDA taking second place in the rural category.
Additionally, ten CDAs received ₦1 million each as consolation prizes for their developmental contributions.
The celebration attracted members of the Lagos State House of Assembly, State Executive Council, party leaders, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries.
