Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has presented brand new 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross SUVs to the chairmen of the 20 local government areas in the state.
The vehicles were handed over on Thursday in Abeokuta, adding colour to the Christmas celebrations as the council chairmen praised the governor for the gesture.
Speaking through the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, Abiodun said the SUVs were provided to strengthen governance and improve service delivery at the grassroots.
He said the local government chairmen had remained key partners in bringing development closer to the people and assured them of continuous support from the state government.
“Our administration is aware of the challenges faced by our people at the grassroots and the obstacles confronting government in delivering essential services,” the governor said.
“These vehicles have therefore been provided to facilitate swift and efficient outreach to the grassroots, as required by the demands of governance.
“This gesture also underscores our determination to ensure that grassroots governance thrives in the state and that rural dwellers enjoy good governance without impediments,” he added.
Abiodun urged the council chairmen to remain committed to excellence and to continue promoting balanced growth across their respective local governments.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the Ogun State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Folashade Adeyemo, described the gift as a timely boost to the festive season.
Adeyemo, who is also the Chairman of Odeda Local Government, commended the governor’s achievements in education, housing, healthcare and road infrastructure.
“This is no doubt a pleasant surprise that came during Christmas, making the celebration even more memorable. It further shows that our hardworking governor is a promise-keeper,” she said.
“The chairmen are very grateful for this support, and it is a call on all of us to do more for our people, even as we continue to support the good work Governor Abiodun has been doing for over six years.”
She added that the vehicles would improve mobility and enhance supervision of projects in rural areas.
“These vehicles will significantly enhance efficiency. As local governments are closest to rural communities, this mobility will aid in reaching remote areas, monitoring projects and engaging effectively with the people,” Adeyemo said.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr Rotimiolu Akinlesi, thanked the governor for the gesture, noting that it would further strengthen grassroots administration.
He urged the council chairmen to justify the support by remaining committed to the welfare of residents in their communities.
Meanwhile, local government administration in Nigeria continues to face challenges, particularly in the area of autonomy, despite the Supreme Court ruling directing states to grant councils financial independence.
