Hon. Hammed Idowu D. Tijani (HID), the Executive Chairman of Ojokoro Local Council Development Area (LCDA), on Friday, January 10, 2025, presented the council’s proposed budget for the year, tagged the "Budget of Consolidation: Sustaining the Gains of Development." The budget presentation marked the final fiscal plan of his administration, aiming to build on past achievements and address lingering challenges.
Speaking to stakeholders, Hon. Tijani outlined the total budget of *₦10.93 billion*, a 25% increase from 2024. The financial plan prioritizes infrastructure, healthcare, youth and women empowerment, and education. Value-added tax (VAT) revenue is expected to contribute ₦9.07 billion, while statutory allocations will provide ₦1.58 billion. Internally generated revenue (IGR) is projected to rise by 10% to ₦163.6 million through improved collection mechanisms.
*Key Achievements*
The Chairman highlighted several accomplishments of his administration including:
- *Healthcare Services*: Renovation of health centers, provision of an ICU-equipped ambulance, and free medical programs.
- *Infrastructural Development*: Completion of multiple drainage systems, roads, and public facilities, which have reduced flooding and enhanced economic activities.
- *Economic Growth*: Empowering over 300 women through skill acquisition programs and purchasing 600 plots of land in Abeokuta for agricultural development.
- *Human Capital Development*: Enhanced staff efficiency through training and provision of official vehicles for the executive and legislative arms.
*2025 Budget Allocations*
- *Recurrent Expenditure*: ₦6.58 billion (60% of the budget), covering staff salaries and pension costs.
- *Capital Expenditure*: ₦4.39 billion (40%), with emphasis on drainage construction, road rehabilitation, and educational infrastructure.
The proposed projects include classroom furniture for primary schools, construction of drainages along key streets, and road development to improve mobility and connectivity.
Hon. Tijani called on residents to fulfill their civic duties by paying taxes, rates, and levies promptly, emphasizing their role in financing the council’s programs. He credited the Federal Government's subsidy removal for creating additional funds for local development.
As the curtain draws on his administration, the Chairman expressed gratitude to stakeholders and pledged continued efforts to uplift the living standards of Ojokoro’s citizens. The budget is now awaiting approval by the council’s legislative arm.
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