CDA, CDC elections: Genuine commitment not financial gain should fuel participation  — Lagos Gov't

The Lagos State Government has called on participants in the forthcoming Community Development Association (CDA) and Community Development Committee (CDC) elections to place genuine commitment to community growth above financial interests.

Addressing stakeholders at a preparatory meeting, the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, encouraged members to use the platform to refine electoral processes and ensure credible outcomes. He reaffirmed that government remains attentive to community demands on social amenities, infrastructure, and essential services such as water supply.

Dr. Agbaje also appealed to stakeholders to involve young people in CDA and CDC activities, stressing that youth participation is vital to sustaining grassroots progress. He further called on members to expand participation by bringing more communities into the fold, while discouraging practices that undermine transparency and trust.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, underscored the relevance of the forum, noting that it was designed to dispel misconceptions about the CDA Constitution and election guidelines. She explained that the document provides a framework for credible conduct before, during, and after elections.

Mrs. Bolarinwa added that the session was meant to give stakeholders the chance to ask questions, seek clarification, and fully understand their roles and responsibilities, pointing out that such engagements would take place across all five divisions of Lagos State.

Chairman of Bariga LCDA, Honourable Bulala Omope Adedeji, expressed appreciation to the State Government for embedding CDAs and CDCs into its policies. She assured that her administration would continue to prioritise and support them in alignment with state-wide objectives.

The meeting concluded with an interactive session where participants raised questions and received clarifications, reinforcing the government’s pledge to ensure fairness, inclusiveness, and credibility in forthcoming CDA and CDC elections.

One of the key moments of the gathering was a presentation by community leader, Mr. Rotimi Owolawi, who delivered a paper on the topic: “Overview of the CDA Constitution: Purpose, Importance, Scope and Understanding the Rudiments – Actions and Inactions”.

Also present at the forum were the Vice-Chairman of Bariga LCDA, Prince Babatunde Adeside; Council Leader, Honourable Wasiu Adeleke; Councillors; the Council Manager, Mrs. Balogun Abiodun; facilitators, and other distinguished guests.