Wale Jagun
A major effort at finally completing and improving the magnificent Imota Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Secretariat building, has commenced by the administration of Hon. Benson Sunday Ayodele.
The ultra – modern council secretariat named, “Imota Citadel”, was initiated by the immediate past administration of Hon. Wasiu Agoro, in 2019 when the ground breaking ceremony was performed for the edifice with over 60 offices. It has legislative chambers, legislative section with offices for Councilors, secretariat hall, ante -rooms, conference hall, marriage registry, cafeteria, sickbay, mechanic workshop among other features.
Unfortunately, the former chairman was unable to complete the secretariat before the expiration of his two -terms tenure due to many reasons among which was the outbreak of COVID 19, inflation and massive theft of building materials and low IGR among others, but nevertheless moved into the massive edifice with staff of the council since there was no space for administrative work after the council was asked to leave its former secretariat which belongs to the Lagos State Hospital Management Board, for the development of the General Hospital, Imota, which is now operational. The move earned the administration commendations.
The Imota Reading Room, which the council used temporarily, it was gathered, was not conducive enough for the staff operation.
Although, the current administration referred to the current work that is ongoing on the secretariat as a major renovation exercise, however, many see it as a good and necessary attempt to fully complete the secretariat and enhance its functionality.
In a statement by the council titled, “Imota LCDA Council Secretariat Undergoes Re -Roofing”, the council explained that it is embarking on comprehensive renovation of the Secretariat, and added that the work will involve extensive renovation, structural upgrades, and modernization of key administrative offices within the secretariat.
“The Imota Local Council Development Area is currently recording a significant milestone with the comprehensive renovation of its council secretariat, a development seen as a major boost to administrative efficiency, improved governance, and service delivery within the council.
“The newly revamped council secretariat reflects the administration’s renewed commitment to efficiency, professionalism, improved working conduction for staff, and enhanced engagement with residents. The transformation will also position the council to better meet the evolving demands of grassroots governance.
“The transformation project, spearheaded by the Executive Chairman, Hon. Benson Sunday Ayodele, involved extensive renovation, structural upgrades, and modernization of key administrative offices within the secretariat. The facelift will significantly enhance both the physical outlook of the complex and improve operational functionality across various departments in the complex”, the statement stated.
The administration of Hon. Benson Ayodele, also stated that the council will be enhancing the secretariat with digital capacity for efficient administrative work.
“Beyond the physical upgrades, the council has introduced digital tools and improved administrative systems aimed at streamlining processes, reducing bureaucratic delays, and ensuring faster response to public needs”.
Speaking on the development, Hon. Benson described the transformation as a strategic investment in institutional development. He noted that a well-structured and modern workplace is essential for optimal staff performance and effective public service delivery.
The Chairman further reiterated his administration’s commitment to sustainable development, stating that the secretariat transformation forms part of a broader agenda to reposition the council for greater impact. He assured residents that more people-oriented projects would be executed in line with the needs and aspirations of the community.
According to the administration, the renovation works included the refurbishment of office spaces, installation of modern equipment, improved lighting systems, and the creation of a more organized workflow layout.
Meanwhile, staff members, led by the Council Manager, Mr. Akinyemi Olusegun, have expressed satisfaction with the ongoing efforts, noting that when completed, the secretariat environment would boost morale and productivity.
Residents and stakeholders in Imota LCDA, have equally lauded the initiative, describing it as a visible sign of purposeful leadership and a step towards responsive governance.
Many also noted that the upgraded secretariat would foster better interaction between the council and the community it serves.
