Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sworn in Abdul-Ganiyu Obasa as the Chairman of Agege Local Government, emphasizing the need for grassroots development and alignment with the state’s development agenda. The ceremony, which also saw the inauguration of Toyin Adejimiwa as a Permanent Secretary, took place at Lagos House, Ikeja.

Obasa, the son of the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudasiru Obasa, had been acting as council chairman prior to his confirmation and formal inauguration. Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the importance of local government as the tier closest to the people, requiring visible, responsive, and compassionate leadership.

Sanwo-Olu urged Obasa to prioritize inclusive governance, avoid divisive tendencies, and focus on delivering measurable outcomes to residents. He noted that discipline and performance remain the benchmarks for leadership and advancement in Lagos State. The governor also acknowledged the presence of retired permanent secretaries at the event, praising their exemplary service and legacy.

The swearing-in of Obasa follows the resignation of the former council chairman, Tunde Azeez, who stepped down due to health challenges. Azeez’s resignation letter was read during a plenary session at the Agege Council Chamber, after which councillors unanimously confirmed Obasa’s appointment.

Obasa’s emergence as substantive chairman comes after initial opposition to his candidacy ahead of the 2025 local government elections. He had previously indicated interest in contesting the chairmanship but was initially dropped. Sanwo-Olu congratulated Adejimiwa and Obasa on their appointments, expressing confidence in their ability to justify the trust placed in them and contribute to the state’s progress.

In their responses, Adejimiwa and Obasa thanked the governor for the confidence placed in them and pledged to uphold the core values and standards associated with public service in Lagos State. The governor’s emphasis on grassroots development and inclusive governance highlights the importance of effective local government in addressing the needs of citizens and driving overall state development.