ABUJA – The Ogun State Chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has thrown its weight behind Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration, hailing his foresight and strategic investment in establishing the Gateway International Airport in Ilishan-Remo. The association described the new airport as a “game-changer for economic prosperity” in the state.
The commendation was made by the Ogun State ALGON Chairman, Hon. Folasade Adeyemo, PhD, who also serves as the Chairman of Odeda Local Government. She was accompanied by a team of local government chairmen as they departed for a crucial capacity-building conference in Abuja. The delegation utilised the newly commissioned Gateway International Airport for their flight, experiencing the facility firsthand.
The conference was organised by the Association of Local Government Service Commissions (LGSC), a body responsible for the administration of the state’s local government service, including personnel management, development, and coordination of activities. Its vision is to be the most disciplined, ethically acculturated, and professionally grounded Local Government Service in Nigeria.
Drawing a parallel to the conference’s theme, the training illustrated that organising a Local Government Area (LGA) is like constructing a building. The first step preceding construction is developing a plan based on a vision of the future. Key questions about the building’s purpose, capacity, and budget form the basis for a plan, which is an absolute must before laying the first foundation stone. The training emphasised that the same rigorous planning is essential for the effective ‘construction’ and administration of an LGA.
Following the training, the Ogun State ALGON team returned to celebrate with the Governor’s mother, Mrs Victoria Olaitan Abiodun, who clocked 90 years old, an event that attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria.
Hon. Adeyemo, accompanied by the chairmen of Ifo, Ado Odo Ota, Ewekoro, Ijebu North, Yewa South, and Remo North local governments, expressed the association’s commitment to supporting the governor’s good governance agenda at the local government level.
The ALGON chairmen specifically congratulated Governor Abiodun on the successful launch of the maiden commercial flight at the state-owned airport. They noted that the inaugural flight, which successfully landed in Abuja, marks a significant step towards accelerating the state’s economic potential.
“Governor Abiodun’s tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to develop our state’s infrastructure and enhance its economic prospects are duly acknowledged. With this airport project, Ogun State has indeed been placed on the world map of aviation,” the ALGON team stated.
They further lauded the governor’s vision, saying, “We applaud the governor’s inspiring vision and strategic investment in birthing the airport, which is a game-changer for economic prosperity. This legacy project and infrastructural pride will undoubtedly have a positive impact on Ogun State’s economy by creating new opportunities for businesses, investors and individuals.”
The chairmen also commended the proactive approach of the Abiodun-led administration in engaging with relevant stakeholders, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), ensuring the facility meets all required standards for safe and efficient operations.
The commencement of commercial flights, the team emphasised, is a major achievement in the state’s development journey, underscoring the administration’s commitment to improving connectivity, facilitating trade, and promoting tourism.
The ALGON leadership also expressed gratitude to the Governor for his commitment to developing his people and for sponsoring their participation in the crucial capacity-building conference in Abuja.
Echoing the importance of strategic communication in achieving the airport milestone, the ALGON chairmen’s core message remained a call to action for the citizenry. They urged all citizens to support the Ogun State Government’s efforts to develop the state’s economy through world-class infrastructure like the new airport, which promises numerous socio-economic benefits
