In the recent quarterly meeting of the Inclusive Forum For Accountability Society (IFAS) held at the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftancy Affairs and Rural Development in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, representatives from IFAS and the state secretariat gathered to discuss community development efforts in Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State.
Mrs. Toyin Adeniji, a Director at the host ministry, expressed gratitude to the Humanity Foundation For Peace and Development (HUFFPED), a civil society group collaborating with the government on rural development in Badagry.
Adeniji emphasised the importance of partnerships, citing HUFFPED’s significant role in supporting communities in Lagos State.
“We have over 4,500 registered Community Development Associations (CDAs) in Lagos State who are under the ministry,” she said.
She acknowledged the challenges faced by communities lacking basic amenities and commended HUFFPED for bridging the gap.
Adeniji welcomed collaborations with NGOs, highlighting the need for coordinated efforts to ensure effective community development.
While appreciating the achievements, Mrs. Adeniji stressed the importance of NGOs informing the Ministry of Local Government about their activities to maintain proper protocols in community development operations.
Keinde Adebowale, the project coordinator for HUFFPED, showcased success stories, including a rebuilt health center and an ambulance provided through the partnership with ActionAid Nigeria.
Participants, such as Tovio Sesede and Mr. Adebayo Ogunwole, shared positive experiences, affirming the impact of HUFFPED and ActionAid’s initiatives in Badagry.
The quarterly meeting served as a platform to celebrate collaborative successes in addressing community needs and emphasised the ongoing commitment to further development initiatives.
During the meeting, the Ministry of Local Government Chieftancy Affairs and Rural Development (chairing ministry) was honored with an award of excellence and a certificate of appreciation.
Others honoured at the event were the Ministry of Economics, Planning and Budget which was awarded as the Financial Secretary. Small Scale Women Farmers Organisation in Nigeria, honored as the Deputy Chairperson,
while the National Orientation Agency was honored as the public relations agency.
They were all honoured for completing the term form November 2021 to November 23.