Towards enhancing operations and activities of Community Development Associations, the Ogun State Government has inaugurated a 13-man committee to review, update and consolidate community development programmes and laws in the State

Speaking at the inauguration held in Abeokuta, Commissioner for Ministry of Community Development and Cooperatives, Hon. Ademola Balogun, said the review was long overdue to improve community development practices in the State.

He disclosed that the committee’s terms of reference include examining the existing law vis a vis current practices and experiences in community development, making necessary recommendations towards the amendment and enactment of Ogun State Community Development Laws, as well as examining Community Development Structure in the State to promote best practices in the State.  

The Commissioner admonished the committee members to see the assignment as their contributions to the development of their communities and the State as a whole, enjoining them to ensure that the review reflects various community’s diversity, promote inclusivity, and address the needs of underrepresented groups.

Speaking earlier, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Kola Ogunlana, highlighted some grey areas of the law to be addressed to include, the harmonisation of community development practice both at the Local and State government levels, imploring the Committee to ensure the review caters for conflict resolution, financial misappropriation, as well as synergy between traditional rulers and community development practitioners.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Olushola Rodoye, appreciated the Prince Dapo Abiodun led government on the various initiatives and efforts aimed at improving well-being and welfare of the people, promising that the committee would work assiduously to deliver on its mandate in due time.

Members of the committee include; Messrs. Sulaimon Ayinla, Mayowa Agbonyin, Babatunde Odukoya, Waheed Olukunle, Isiaka Ogunmuyiwa, High Chief Adetayo Boyejo, Alhaji Isiaka Onifade, Pastor Johnson Olulenu, Prince Sesan Adesanya, Mmes Abiola Olalekan and Olayinka De-Campos.

The committee is expected to submit its report in two weeks and Mr. Olaotan Soyode would serve as the secretary.