Ikorodu North Local Council Development Area (LCDA) commenced its 2025 budget retreat, yesterday 27th of December, with the Executive Chairman, Builder Deola AdeBisi Banjo, charging stakeholders to prioritize the needs of the community.

In his welcome address, Builder Banjo reflected on the administration’s journey, highlighting the milestones achieved over the past seven and a half years. He emphasized the significance of the 2025 budget, which will be the final budget under his administration, set to end in June 2025.

He urged participants to bring their best ideas and perspectives to the table, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and unity. He thanked the legislative council members for their support and commitment to scrutinizing and approving budgets that reflect the aspirations of the people.

The Chairman also commended the management team and heads of departments for their expertise and professionalism in implementing the council’s policies. He encouraged them to think innovatively and strategically as they plan for 2025.

The 2025 budget retreat is expected to chart a course for the council’s sustainable development, strengthening its infrastructure, improving social services, enhancing security, and providing opportunities for economic growth.

As the administration enters its final phase, Builder Banjo expressed his commitment to leaving a lasting legacy of good governance and sustainable development. The 2025 budget is expected to consolidate the gains of the past years and ensure a seamless transition for the incoming administration.

Professor Olateju, Dean of the Postgraduate School at Lagos State University (LASU), has emphasized the importance of efficient procurement management in local government administration.

Professor Olateju made this assertion while delivering a lecture on the impact of procurement on local government administration and the role of accounting officers in its application.

He commended Builder Deola Banjo and Ikorodu North LCDA for bringing up a contemporary topic, stating that procurement management is a crucial aspect of project management.

According to him, accounting officers are essentially project managers, responsible for executing projects efficiently.

Professor Olateju highlighted the importance of specificity and quality in project execution, using the example of supplying tables and chairs.

He stressed that accounting officers must give specific specifications, design, taste, and quality requirements to contractors.

The professor also emphasized the need for resource management, noting that efficiency is not just about being busy, but about being resource-oriented.

He encouraged accounting officers to adopt models that prioritize efficiency and resource management.

Professor Olateju warned that failure to practice sound procurement principles can result in severe consequences, including the withdrawal of degrees.

He emphasized the importance of quality work, stating that accounting officers must promote quality and not compromise on it.

Dr. Olabode, Head of Department of Management Technology at Lagos State University (LASU), emphasized the significance of effective procurement management in local government administration.

As an expert in management technology, Dr. Olabode stressed that procurement management is a critical aspect of local government administration, as it directly impacts the delivery of public services and the utilization of resources.

Dr. Olabode noted that local governments must adopt a strategic approach to procurement management, one that prioritizes transparency, accountability, and value for money. This can be achieved by implementing efficient procurement processes, leveraging technology to enhance transparency and accountability, and building the capacity of procurement personnel.

Furthermore, Dr. Olabode highlighted the importance of compliance with procurement regulations and guidelines, citing the need for local governments to adhere to established procurement procedures to ensure that public resources are utilized efficiently and effectively.