Hon. Fuad Atanda-Lawal Commissions Remodelled Ikoyi-Obalende Secretariat, Bows Out After Eight Years of Transformational Leadership
Obalende, Lagos — July 25, 2025
Outgoing Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Fuad Atanda-Lawal, has drawn the curtain on his eight-year tenure with the commissioning of the newly remodelled council secretariat and a network of strategic roads across the LCDA. Atanda-Lawal, in an emotional farewell address, reflected on his journey in office, describing it as one defined by “sincerity of purpose, dedication to service, and unwavering commitment to community transformation.”
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the outgoing chairman expressed gratitude to his executive team, legislative members, and staff, attributing the council’s successes to their cooperation and collective sacrifices. “We have proved that local governments can truly deliver the dividends of democracy. Today, we have not only changed the narrative but laid a strong foundation for inclusive and sustainable development,” he said.
Atanda-Lawal also pledged to remain available to support the incoming administration, urging residents to rally behind the new leadership to ensure continuity of good governance. “Let us give our full support to the new chairman. Leadership is a continuum, and building on progress requires unity of purpose,” he added.
The event attracted dignitaries from across Lagos State, including the Principal Secretary to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, who commended the achievements of the outgoing chairman. Represented by Hon. Kolawole Peregrino, Muri-Okunola praised Atanda-Lawal’s commitment, noting that the roads commissioned—such as Oluwa Street and Maitama Sule—would enhance Obalende’s functionality and spur socio-economic growth.
He further expressed optimism about the future of local governance under the newly granted financial autonomy, emphasizing that local councils are capable of impactful service delivery when adequately empowered. “Thanks to President Tinubu’s intervention, local governments now have the autonomy needed to drive real development. What we see here today is a shining example,” Muri-Okunola said.
Chairman-elect, Hon. Bola Oladunjoye, also addressed the gathering, promising to lead an inclusive administration that serves all residents regardless of political or ethnic affiliations. He acknowledged the foundation laid by his predecessor and pledged to build on the legacies already established.
Also speaking, Hon. Gbolahan Yishawu, member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Eti-Osa Constituency II, emphasized the strategic importance of local governments in national development. He lauded the outgoing chairman’s efforts and advised the new administration to sustain the momentum.
Dr. Akingbeyin, in his goodwill message, described Hon. Atanda-Lawal as the most impactful chairman in the council’s history, citing notable achievements in infrastructure, education, and empowerment. Former Lagos Commissioner Mrs. Teju Philips echoed similar sentiments, saying, “He outdid everyone’s expectations.”
Vice Chairman Hon. Marcualy also acknowledged the support of the outgoing team and urged the incoming administration to leverage existing projects for even greater impact.
The event not only marked a celebration of achievements but also a symbolic transition of leadership, with many describing Hon. Fuad Atanda-Lawal’s tenure as a benchmark for good governance at the grassroots level.
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