...The Grassroots Politician Who Thinks Global, Acts Local
By Adeola Shittu
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| Comrade Akeem Olalekan Dauda, Executive Chairman Ikeja Local Government |
When destiny calls, men of vision rise to the occasion. Such is the story of Comrade. Akeem Olalekan Dauda, fondly known as AKOD, who has been elected and officially sworn in by His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor of Lagos State, as the new Executive Chairman of Ikeja Local Government. He now takes over the mantle of leadership from his immediate predecessor, Hon. Mojeed Balogun, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Ikeja’s political history.
For many in Lagos, especially at the grassroots level, AKOD is not a stranger. He has been around the corridors of governance for years — loyal, resilient, and committed to service. Now, as he settles into his new seat at the Ikeja LG secretariat, a new chapter of leadership begins.
Born on June 7, 1972, AKOD’s journey began in Ogun State. He attended Emmanuel Anglican Primary School and Isonyi Grammar School before advancing to the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, where he obtained both ND and HND qualifications.
A firm believer in continuous learning, he furthered his education with a B.A. in International Relations & Strategic Studies from LASU (2001) and an MBA from LAUTECH (2008). His thirst for global exposure also took him beyond Nigeria, where he attended prestigious leadership programs in London, Arlington (Virginia, USA), and across Africa, becoming a Fellow of the World Leadership Programme (2005) and the Leadership Institute, Virginia (2014).
FROM PRIVATE SECTOR TO PUBLIC SERVICE
AKOD’s first foray into leadership began in the private sector. He worked as a Sales Executive with Solatek Nigeria Limited before moving on to become Executive Director of Datkeem Ventures Nigeria Limited (2001–2007).
But his heart was always with public service. In 2003, he crossed over into government, serving as Personal Assistant and later Special Assistant to Lagos State Commissioners in the Ministry of Youth, Sports & Social Development and the Ministry of Information & Strategy. These roles sharpened his administrative skills and prepared him for bigger responsibilities.
A POLITICAL JOURNEY ROOTED IN LOYALTY
At the grassroots, AKOD has always been a man of the people. From Ward Chairman of ACN/APC in Ikeja (2006–2014) to Youth Leader of Ikeja LG, he has been deeply involved in shaping the political base of Lagos’ capital.
He has served as Returning Officer in multiple elections — House of Assembly, Governorship, and House of Reps primaries — and was also a Member of the Civil Societies Forum for the 2023 Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council.
From 2017, he rose to become Secretary to Ikeja Local Government, a position that brought him statewide recognition and ultimately led to his election as Chairman of Scribes 57 (the association of all LG/LCDA Secretaries in Lagos State).
Now, his political journey has come full circle with his elevation as Chairman of Ikeja LG.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
AKOD’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. He has received multiple awards, including the 2018 Award for High-Level Managerial Capacity & Moral Conduct, the 2023 NYC Award of Recognition on Exceptional Leadership, and the 2024 Pearl Leadership Award on Youth Development & Promotion.
THE MAN & HIS VISION
AKOD is described by many as humble, approachable, and deeply committed to his people. A family man and community leader, his vision for Ikeja is rooted in inclusive governance, infrastructure renewal, youth empowerment, and education.
He is particularly passionate about aligning local governance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that Ikeja continues to set the pace for other LGAs in Lagos.
A NEW DAWN FOR IKEJA LG
With his assumption of office, Hon. Akeem Olalekan Dauda (AKOD) has become a symbol of continuity and transformation. His style of leadership — grassroots-driven yet globally aware — is expected to usher in a new era of growth and development for Ikeja.
For AKOD, politics is not about position but about service: service to his community, to Lagos, and to Nigeria at large.
And as Ikeja residents look forward with optimism, one thing is clear — AKOD is ready to deliver.