Says LG autonomy boosts allocation

The Chairman of Agege Local Council Area, Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa, has said that while many teachers in public schools are qualified and capable, there is a need to improve infrastructure, provide modern learning materials, and create a conducive environment for teaching and learning.

The chairman during a chat with The Guardian at the council secretariat in Agege said that the financial autonomy granted to local councils under President Bola Tinubu’s administration has significantly increased allocations to councils, but insisted that more work is still required to meet the needs of grassroots residents.

According to him, the removal of fuel subsidy and the push for local government autonomy have created room for councils to play a more active role in socio-economic development at the grassroots.

“Because subsidy has been removed, more funds are now available, and local governments can be more active. But it is not just about having more allocation; the real work is in ensuring that the people feel the impact directly,” he said.

He said: “For me, the Renewed Hope Agenda is something I key into 100 per cent. These are fundamental reforms that will, over time, create stability and growth in the system.”

Speaking on backlash on refening cooking gas cylinders of 3,500 residents, Obasa described criticism as a natural part of governance, insisting that such interventions are targeted relief measures, not long-term empowerment schemes.

“You cannot avoid criticism as a public servant. Even when you are doing the right thing, people will still question you. It is part of the job,” he said.

“People spend a large portion of their income on food, medicine and energy. If you are able to subsidise these, you improve their disposable income. The gas distribution was a relief programme, not empowerment. It may not be monthly; it could be periodic, but it helps,” Obasa stated.

He also dismissed criticisms from Nigerians in the diaspora, noting that those living within the community better understand the immediate impact of such interventions.

“That N4,000 saved can go a long way for a struggling family,” he added.
On how he manages criticism, the chairman said leadership requires a mix of restraint and firmness, he said:

“Sometimes you take a subtle approach; sometimes you respond firmly. You cannot be one-dimensional. The most important thing is to deliver results,” he noted.

Obasa, who highlighted his long-standing involvement in community development before assuming office, said his administration remains focused on welfare-driven policies backed by data and grassroots engagement.

Speaking on education, Obasa revealed that his administration is making significant investments in public schools within the local government area, with the aim of raising standards and making them competitive with private institutions.

“We want parents to have confidence in public schools,” he said. “Our goal is to create an environment where parents are willing to move their children from private schools to public schools because of the quality of education being offered.”

He noted that while many teachers in public schools are qualified and capable, there is a need to improve infrastructure, provide modern learning materials, and create a conducive environment for teaching and learning.

Providing further insight into ongoing efforts, Obasa disclosed that the council has already made measurable progress in upgrading educational facilities and resources across Agege.

“So far, we have renovated 17 schools, established five school libraries, and delivered essential learning tools, including 1,800 twin desks, 400 ECC furniture, 72 teacher furniture, and 92 marker boards,” he said. “We are also in the process of procuring 75 computers to expand digital learning in our schools.”

Beyond infrastructure, he emphasized that the administration is also investing in human capital and student safety.

“We have recruited 50 primary school teachers and school support staff to strengthen the quality of teaching in our schools. In addition, we have deployed security personnel and are making plans to install CCTV systems in school environments to ensure the safety of our pupils and staff,” Obasa added.

He further noted that efforts are being made to improve the overall learning environment through additional facilities and access to basic amenities.

“We have constructed two seven-aside football pitches to encourage physical development and extracurricular activities, and we have connected five school compounds to the power grid to support teaching and learning activities,” he said.