Kunle Adelabu
As the 2025 Local Government elections draw nearer in lkorodu North Local Council Development Area (LCDA), and residents are getting ready to make the big decision regarding whom they are going to elect to manage the affairs of the council area in the next four years, Hon. Ameen Olawale Ibrahim (APANISILE), the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate in the council, has not only offered himself for service, but has done so with clear – agenda on how he intends to manage the affairs of Ikorodu North Local Council Development Area (LCDA), one of the most important council areas not only to Lagos State, but also to the entirety of the country and beyond.
Ikorodu North LCDA hosts the largest industrial estate in West Africa sub – region, as well as serves as a border between the Lagos State which is the largest economy in Africa and other parts of the country, and also hosts a major military formation, 174 Battalion.
As a council within the Ikorodu Division, Ikorodu North also hosts a state university, Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH) and a private polytechnic, Ed John Institute of Management & Technology. These and many other landmarks and important institutions and places make the council strategic and like a 21st century leader, Apanisile is equipped with the required educational, mental and managerial competence to provide the much needed leadership for physical, material and human developments in the council.
Ameen Olawaale Ibrahim, who is in his late 40s, hails from the well – known families of Apanisile and Olokunola in Ikorodu. His educational journey began in Lagos where he completed both Primary and Secondary School education. He holds a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Town and Regional Planning from the Federal Polytechnic Ilaro, Ogun State, and pursued further studies at the University of Bolton in the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor of Science in Building Survey and Property Management. Ameen also possesses an MBA in Finance from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomosho.
Ameen’s extensive experience spans both local and international landscapes. He served as Vice Chairman of the Ikorodu North Local Council Development Area for eight years. He has equally worked in other organizations which include the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), the Nigeria Police Force and El-Ameen Bros Nig Enterprise. Outside Nigeria, he held key positions while working with the City Facility Management, Prime Time Recruitment Limited, Royal Mail, and Park Cakes Limited, all in the United Kingdom.
With a profound commitment to good governance, Ameen is poised to lead Ikorodu North LCDA, with a firm resolve to build upon the legacies of past chairmen of the council, and aligned with the ambitious themes and agenda of the esteemed Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, and that of the Renewed Hope of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Ameen’s vision is to elevate every community within the LCDA, fostering sustainable development and progress.
Apanisile’s broader vision is to establish honest and transparent government that champions the interests of every resident, fostering a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable community. He aspires to empower individuals to realize their full potential, and ensure that everyone has access to opportunities that enhance their quality of life.
At the same time, he is on a mission to deliver effective, efficient, and transparent local governance that prioritizes the genuine needs and aspirations of the community. He is committed to actively engaging with residents, leveraging local resources, and forming partnerships that enhance collective well- being.
The APC chairmanship candidate in the forthcoming local government elections, while emphasising the importance of the local government administration and what is expected of him, said that:
“For over 50 years, Lagos has been shaped by visionary leaders, especially from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to the current administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. This legacy has brought significant advancements in employment, security, transportation, infrastructure, recreation, and healthcare. However, the role of local government cannot be over-emphasized as it serves as a vital link between the State and the grassroots, ensuring that policies resonate with the community’s needs.
“The exemplary efforts of our representatives: Senator Mukhail Abiru, Hon. Babajimi Benson. MHR, and Hon. Gbolahan Ogunleye, have made remarkable strides against hardship and poverty, casting the government in a deserving positive light. Their work underscores the importance of local governance in complementing state initiatives and addressing community challenges effectively”, he said.
If elected as the Executive Chairman of Ikorodu North LCDA in the July council election, Hon. Ameen Olawale Ibrahim intends to focus on Internally Generated Revenue, Infrastructural Development, Economic Empowerment, Education and Skill Development among others enumerated below.
Key Policy Areas:
- Internal Generated Revenue (IGR):
We will implement robust revenue generation strategies that tap into local resources and talents. By encouraging entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses, we aim to create a self-sustaining economy within the LCDA.
- Infrastructure Development:
Our commitment includes upgrading and maintaining roads, bridges, and public facilities to ensure safe and accessible transportation. We will prioritize the development of community spaces that foster interaction and engagement among residents.
- Economic Empowerment:
We will create a thriving environment for local businesses, providing training and resources to promote entrepreneurship. Our initiatives will focus on job creation, offering vocational training programs that equip residents with in-demand skills.
- Education and Skills Development:
Improving access to quality education is paramount. We will provide essential learning materials, enhance school facilities, and establish mentorship programs that inspire students and foster a culture of lifelong learning.
- Health and Wellbeing:
We will enhance healthcare services by equipping facilities with modern medical equipment and training healthcare professionals. Community health programs will promote preventive care, mental health awareness, and healthy lifestyles.
- Environmental Sustainability:
Protecting our natural environment is a priority. We will promote sustainable practices, such as waste management and tree planting initiatives, while addressing the impacts of climate change through community involvement.
- Community Safety and Security:
Strengthening community policing and emergency response systems is essential for public safety. We will collaborate with security agencies to implement programs that enhance community vigilance and crime prevention.
- Social Inclusion and Diversity:
Our commitment to inclusivity will foster a culture of respect and empathy. We will support programs that empower marginalized groups, ensuring that everyone has a voice and opportunity to thrive.
- Transparency and Accountability:
We pledge to ensure transparent governance through open channels of communication for residents to voice their concerns. Regular community engagement and feedback mechanisms will be established to build trust and confidence in local leadership.
Our Commitments:
- Listen to Our Community:
We will actively engage with residents, businesses, and community groups, to understand their needs and aspirations. Regular town hall meetings and surveys will facilitate meaningful dialogue.
- Deliver Effective Services:
Our administration will provide reliable, efficient, and responsive services tailored towards meeting the unique needs of our community, thereby, ensuring that every resident feels valued and supported.
- Foster Partnerships:
We will collaborate with state and federal governments, businesses, and community organizations to leverage resources and expertise, creating a network of support for our initiatives.
- Promote Sustainability:
Sustainability will be at the core of our decision-making. We will integrate eco-friendly practices into all operations, ensuring a healthy environment for future generations.
- Ensure Transparency and Accountability:
We are committed to maintaining transparent decision-making processes, providing regular updates on our activities, and holding ourselves accountable to the community we serve.
Apanilsile also pledged that: “We pledge to work tirelessly to fulfill our commitments and create a brighter future for our community. We shall address the pressing issues facing the Ikorodu North LCDA, establishing a governance model free from deceit. Our administration will fulfill every promise made, working tirelessly to provide superior services and job opportunities over the next four years as we collectively strive towards achieving Lagos Vision 2030”.
“Together, let’s build a thriving, inclusive community where every resident can prosper.
“Your voice matters. Join us in making change happen!”, the Chairmanship candidate charged.
