…Defends gas distribution, says criticism ‘inevitable’ in politics
The Chairman of Agege Local Government, Hon. Abdul-Ganiyu Vinod Obasa, has declared that the financial autonomy granted to local governments under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has significantly increased allocations to councils, stressing that more work is still required to meet the needs of grassroots residents.
Obasa made this known during a media chat with selected journalists at the council secretariat in Agege, where he also addressed criticisms trailing his administration’s welfare initiatives, including the recent distribution of cooking gas to residents.
According to him, the removal of fuel subsidy and the push for local government autonomy have created room for councils to play a more active role in socio-economic development at the grassroots.
“Because subsidy has been removed, more funds are now available, and local governments can be more active. But it is not just about having more allocation; the real work is in ensuring that the people feel the impact directly,” he said.
The council boss aligned himself fully with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that ongoing economic reforms, though difficult, are laying the foundation for long-term growth. He said: “For me, the Renewed Hope Agenda is something I key into 100 per cent. These are fundamental reforms that will, over time, create stability and growth in the system.”
Speaking on public reactions to the distribution of cooking gas to about 3,500 residents, Obasa described criticism as a natural part of governance, insisting that such interventions are targeted relief measures, not long-term empowerment schemes.
“You cannot avoid criticism as a public servant. Even when you are doing the right thing, people will still question you. It is part of the job,” he said.
Defending the initiative, he explained that the decision was data-driven and aimed at reducing the financial burden on vulnerable households.
“People spend a large portion of their income on food, medicine and energy. If you are able to subsidise these, you improve their disposable income. The gas distribution was a relief programme, not empowerment. It may not be monthly; it could be periodic, but it helps,” Obasa stated.
He also dismissed criticisms from Nigerians in the diaspora, noting that those living within the community better understand the immediate impact of such interventions.
“Those who came to collect the gas know its value. That N4,000 saved can go a long way for a struggling family,” he added.
Balancing leadership and response
On how he manages criticism, the chairman said leadership requires a mix of restraint and firmness.
“Sometimes you take a subtle approach; sometimes you respond firmly. You cannot be one-dimensional. The most important thing is to deliver results,” he noted.
Obasa, who highlighted his long-standing involvement in community development before assuming office, said his administration remains focused on welfare-driven policies backed by data and grassroots engagement.
Speaking on education, Obasa revealed that his administration is making significant investments in public schools within the local government area, with the aim of raising standards and making them competitive with private institutions.
“We want parents to have confidence in public schools,” he said. “Our goal is to create an environment where parents are willing to move their children from private schools to public schools because of the quality of education being offered.”
He noted that while many teachers in public schools are qualified and capable, there is a need to improve infrastructure, provide modern learning materials, and create a conducive environment for teaching and learning.
Providing further insight into ongoing efforts, Obasa disclosed that the council has already made measurable progress in upgrading educational facilities and resources across Agege.
“So far, we have renovated 17 schools, established five school libraries, and delivered essential learning tools, including 1,800 twin desks, 400 ECC furniture, 72 teacher furniture, and 92 marker boards,” he said. “We are also in the process of procuring 75 computers to expand digital learning in our schools.”
Beyond infrastructure, he emphasized that the administration is also investing in human capital and student safety.
“We have recruited 50 primary school teachers and school support staff to strengthen the quality of teaching in our schools. In addition, we have deployed security personnel and are making plans to install CCTV systems in school environments to ensure the safety of our pupils and staff,” Obasa added.
He further noted that efforts are being made to improve the overall learning environment through additional facilities and access to basic amenities.
“We have constructed two seven-aside football pitches to encourage physical development and extracurricular activities, and we have connected five school compounds to the power grid to support teaching and learning activities,” he said.
According to him, these interventions are part of a broader strategy to reposition the education sector in Agege as a model for other local governments.
“Our discussions have been focused on improving the quality of education, increasing school maintenance support, expanding facilities, and ensuring inclusive learning for special needs students, alongside skill acquisition opportunities,” he explained.
Obasa stressed that education remains central to the future of the community and must be treated as a top priority.
“Education remains a top priority, because the future of Agege is sitting in our classrooms today,” he stated.