COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (CDC) HOSTS ONE-DAY RETREAT ON THE ROLE OF CDAS IN TODAY’S GOVERNANCE

The Community Development Committee (CDC) of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government on Thursday 23rd April, 2026 successfully organized a one-day retreat centered on the theme: “The Roles of Community Development Associations (CDAs) in Today’s Governance.” The event brought together key stakeholders, CDA executives, and community leaders to deliberate on strengthening grassroots governance and community participation. The Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, was ably represented at the retreat by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Adewale Adebanjo. In his address, the Chairman reiterated the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and emphasized the critical role CDAs play in bridging the gap between the government and the grassroots. Speaking further, the Council Mayor charged the participants to speak with one voice, ensure they learn and come out with fruitful deliberations. Declaring the session open, Hon. Olusola Edalere, Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services thanked the organizers and called on all participants to pay rapt attention to all discussions. The retreat featured insightful lectures delivered by seasoned resource persons, including Mr. Rotimi Owolawi, a financial analyst and Alhaja Muhibah Balogun. Their presentations highlighted the importance of accountability, community mobilization, conflict resolution, and active citizen participation in governance. Participants were engaged in interactive sessions that underscored the need for CDAs to remain proactive, transparent, and aligned with government policies to drive sustainable development at the community level. The lecturers also encouraged CDA members to embrace unity, effective communication, and collaboration with local authorities to achieve shared development goals. Speaking at the event, CDC Chairman, Comrade Adeboye Jabita, expressed appreciation to the Local Government for its continuous support and on behalf of the body, reaffirmed its dedication to empowering CDAs through capacity-building initiatives such as this retreat. The retreat concluded with a renewed commitment from all participants to strengthen their roles as key partners in governance and to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of their respective communities. Also present at the retreat were the Supervisors, and Executive Committee members of the CDC.