Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has implemented a temporary restriction on the 57 recently sworn-in Local Government (LG) and Local Council Development Area (LCDA) Chairmen. These officials have been directed not to appoint Secretaries to the Local Governments (SLGs) or Supervisory Councillors for now. This announcement came immediately after the swearing-in ceremony, which took place at the Sports Ground in Lagos House, Ikeja. During the ceremony, Sanwo-Olu administered the oath of office to the elected chairmen and their deputies.
According to the governor, this measure is to allow the new council leaders a period of 30 to 60 days to gain a thorough understanding of the unique challenges and needs within their communities. He assured them that the state government would inform them when the restriction on appointments is lifted. Meanwhile, he authorized them to appoint Chiefs of Staff to manage their daily operations.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the need for accountable, transparent, and inclusive governance. He reminded the council leaders that local governments now operate with greater autonomy and direct access to their funds, following the Supreme Court’s affirmation of local government independence. However, he stressed that this increased independence comes with significant responsibility and scrutiny. He urged the leaders to resist using their positions for personal gain and instead focus on public service.
The governor framed their roles as a serious commitment to the people, who expect improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, security, and sanitation. He told the chairmen that their effectiveness would not be judged by rhetoric but by tangible results visible in their communities. He also called on them to implement the THEMES+ agenda—a policy framework covering Transportation, Health, Education, Environment, Security, and Social Inclusion—across all areas of Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu reiterated the government’s support while making it clear that performance would be closely monitored. He asked that rural and underserved communities not be neglected, affirming that governance should be inclusive and people-centered.
Commissioner Bolaji Robert commended the peaceful conduct of the elections and urged the new leaders to deliver on their mandates. Representing the chairmen, Sesan Olowa of Ibeju-Lekki expressed appreciation for the public’s trust and vowed to uphold the principles of the All Progressives Congress (APC), ensuring development reaches all parts of their jurisdictions.
The event was attended by prominent individuals, including the First Lady, Deputy Governor, lawmakers, party leaders, traditional rulers, and community representatives, all gathered to witness the official beginning of a new chapter in grassroots governance.