... As He Inaugurates Procurement Committees
In a move to entrench transparency and accountability in grassroots governance, the Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD), has inaugurated the council’s Statutory Committee on Procurement while also declaring open a two-day capacity-building workshop for council officials.
The event, themed “Understanding the Procurement Process and Inauguration of the Statutory Committee on Procurement,” held at the Chairman’s Conference Room, Ikeja House, brought together top officials, staff, and stakeholders.
In his welcome address, Comrade Dauda described procurement as the heartbeat of governance, noting that effective management of resources directly impacts the lives of citizens.
“This program is a step towards strengthening transparency, accountability, and efficiency in Ikeja Local Government. Procurement, when done rightly, ensures that resources are well utilized for the benefit of our people. This workshop is therefore designed to equip us with the knowledge and skills to deliver on our mandate,” he said.
The highlight of the program was a paper presentation by Ambali Taofiki Oluwakemi, Director of Procurement, LGSC, titled “Understanding Public Procurement Law and Procedures.”
In his presentation, he emphasized that procurement has important economic and political implications, making it crucial that the process is handled both economically and effectively.
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| Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda, Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government during the inauguration of the procurement committees |
“This requires that the whole process is well understood by all actors — the government, procuring entities, service providers, and other stakeholders, including professional associations, academic institutions, and even the general public. At the heart of all procurement activities is the goal of achieving value for money,” he stressed.
Concluding his paper, he left participants with a powerful reminder:
“Don’t do the wrong thing to keep a friend, or to make one.”
He also cited Dr. Adedokun A. Adebowale, stating that “procurement connects citizens with governments to deliver value and end-user satisfaction.” He urged members of the newly inaugurated committee not to compromise their office or sell their integrity in the discharge of their duties.
The program also featured a health talk by a medical director, who sensitized participants on healthy living and how to manage their health effectively.
The inauguration of the Statutory Committee on Procurement capped the event, a step the Chairman described as vital in strengthening institutional processes, improving service delivery, and boosting public trust in governance.
The committee is headed by Hon. Abidoye Omisore, Vice Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, who serves as the Committee Chairman. Other members include the Council Manager, the Legal Officer, and the Head of Works and Infrastructure, while the Head of Procurement Unit will serve as Secretary.
With this initiative, Ikeja Local Government continues to set the pace for grassroots development.
God bless Ikeja. Better Days are Here.