By Bose Adelaja
CITIZENS COMPASS— As the curtain of the year 2025 is being drawn, Oto-Awori Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State has embarked on what could be described as a harvest of development within its area of jurisdiction.
Starting from the presentation of the Appropriation Bill to the construction of a state-of-the-art 12-classroom block and many others.
The LCDA under the leadership of its Council Chairman, Kareem Azeez Abiodun, has left no stone unturned to make life meaningful to residents.
Apart from the success recorded before his first 100 days in office, the month of December was busy with activities to the admiration of many.
On Monday, December 22, 20. Abiodun formally presented the Year 2026 Appropriation Bill, tagged “Budget of Transformation,” to the Legislative Arm led by Hon. Audu Awoyemi Sulaimon, being the first budget presentation held at the newly inaugurated Hon. Ojelabi Legislative Building.
The session commenced with opening remarks by the Clerk of the House, Mr. Obanla Adeboye Thomas, who welcomed dignitaries and set the tone for a purposeful deliberation. Councillors present included the Deputy Leader, Hon Bashiru Olamilekan Safari, Councillor representing Ward B, Majority Leader, Hon Salami Bashir Akinyele, Councillor representing Ward A, HON Afolabi-Aso Christian (Chief Whip), Councillor representing Ward C, Hon Falana John Durojaiye, Deputy Chief Whip, and Councillor representing Ward D in the LCDA.
During the presentation, Abiodun outlined the vision of the 2026 budget emphasizing comprehensive development across infrastructure, education, health, security, environment, social welfare, women and elderly empowerment, youth job creation, skills acquisition, and sports development noting that the administration’s first 100 days in office provided a solid template for the proposed initiatives, with significant allocations aimed at transforming lives and communities.
Receiving the budget, Audu commended the Chairman’s zeal and commitment, noting that the proposed budget reflects visible developmental strides across the LCDA.
He said the presentation reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to uplifting the standard of governance and development in Oto-Awori LCDA in all ramifications.
On Tuesday, December 30, 2025,
The Council Chairman officially signed the 2026 Budget of Transformation into law. The ceremony was held at his office, marking a significant milestone in the administration’s commitment to delivering transformative projects and programs to the people of Oto-Awori LCDA.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by key stakeholders, including the Leader of the House, Hon. Audu Awoyemi Sulaiman, Council Manager, Mr. Salam Adeyemi, and Clerk of the House, Obanla Adeboye Thomas. Their presence underscored the importance of this budget in shaping the future of Oto-Awori LCDA.
The budget totaling N12,599,565,061 is designed to drive sustainable growth and development in the LCDA. With a focus on infrastructure, governance, security, economic growth, and sustainable development. Hon. Kareem emphasized his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and delivering value to the Council area.
He stated, “This budget is a blueprint for the transformation of Oto-Awori LCDA.” He expressed confidence that the budget would bring tangible benefits to the people, enhancing their quality of life.
The Leader of the House, Hon. Audu Awoyemi Sulaiman, praised the Executive Chairman’s leadership and vision, highlighting the budget’s potential to drive progress.
With the budget now in effect, the administration is set to drive transformative projects and programs in Oto-Awori LCDA. The people of Oto-Awori LCDA can expect a new era of development and progress as the administration works to bring positive change to the community.
On Thursday, December 25, 2025,
Abiodun visited the scene of a devastating fire incident along Badagry Expressway, Ogbetedo in Oto-Awori where three drivers and their assistants lost their lives, and several shops and businesses were ravaged.
The fire, sparked by a collision involving fuel and diesel-laden trucks, has left a trail of destruction. Hon. Kareem expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and those who lost their valuables. “We’re deeply saddened by this tragic incident. Our hearts go out to the families of the deceased and those affected,” he said.
According to eyewitnesses, the collision occurred when three trailer drivers, allegedly driving recklessly, crashed into each other. The impact sparked a massive fire that engulfed the trucks and nearby shops. Sources confirmed that the three drivers, who were behind the wheel of the trailers, lost their lives in the inferno.
“It was a horrific scene; the drivers’ recklessness cost them their lives,” a witness said. The incident has raised concerns about road safety and the need for drivers, especially those carrying hazardous materials, to exercise extreme caution.
Hon. Abiodun also urged trailer drivers to be more careful on the highways. “One mistake can claim lives and destroy livelihoods. Please be more careful,” he appealed. The Chairman commended the fire service’s prompt response, which prevented further devastation.
His visit was a gesture of solidarity with the affected community, as they grappled with the aftermath of the incident. The LCDA chairman’s expression of sympathy brings some comfort to the grieving residents, amidst the tragic loss of lives and properties.
Similarly, the administration constructed a state-of-the-art 12-classroom block at Ilemba-Awori to boost the existing number of classrooms in the School.
Citizens Compass reports that the newly constructed storey building of 12 classrooms stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of the Executive Chairman of Oto-Awori LCDA, Hon. Kareem Azeez Abiodun to revolutionize education in the community. This impressive structure is a beacon of hope for the residents of Ilemba-Awori, providing a conducive learning environment for students and a sense of pride for the community.
The construction of this state-of-the-art classroom block is a direct response to the long-standing plea of the Ilemba-Awori community for improved educational facilities. Hon. Kareem Azeez Abiodun’s administration listened to the needs of the people and delivered a project that will positively impact the lives of students, teachers, and the community at large. The 12-classroom block is designed to accommodate the growing population of students in the area, ensuring that they have access to quality education.
This project is a classic model of the Executive Chairman’s vision for Oto-Awori LCDA. The building’s modern design, complete with necessary amenities, sets a new standard for educational infrastructure in the area. The structure is equipped with modern facilities, including spacious classrooms, offices, and sanitation facilities, creating an ideal environment for learning and teaching.
The impact of this project goes beyond providing classrooms; it’s about empowering future generations. By investing in education infrastructure, Hon. Kareem Azeez Abiodun’s administration is investing in the human capital of Oto-Awori LCDA. This project will contribute significantly to improving educational outcomes, increasing access to quality education, and ultimately, shaping a brighter future for the community.
The completion of this project is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Oto-Awori LCDA team, led by Hon. Kareem Azeez Abiodun. It demonstrates what can be achieved when leaders listen to their community and work tirelessly to address their needs. This landmark achievement is a harbinger of more progress to come in Oto-Awori LCDA, as the administration continues to prioritize the welfare and development of its people.
