Discussion on Enhancing Accountability in Local Government

Enhancing Accountability in Local Government: A Roundtable Discussion

Enhancing Accountability in Local Government: A Roundtable Discussion
Enhancing Accountability in Local Government: A Roundtable Discussion

On a recent morning, a key meeting was held to discuss the vital role of accountability and transparency in local government procurement processes. The gathering brought together influential figures, including Dr. Ilawole, the Permanent Secretary; Pastor Akinshimola, Head of the Bureau of Public Procurement; and representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs), youth-led groups, and other stakeholders. The meeting commenced promptly at 10:45 AM, following an opening prayer.

The session began with introductions from all participants, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. Mr. Franklin Oloniju, Executive Director of LAPDO, welcomed everyone and introduced the project aimed at enhancing accountability in procurement processes. Key points from his speech included:

  • Combatting Corruption: Accountability and transparency are essential to reducing corruption and fraud in local governance.
  • Optimizing Resources: Government offices should prioritize effective resource allocation over personal interests.
  • Improving Ondo State: The overarching goal is to enhance the quality of life in Ondo State through better governance.

Miss Ifeoluwaposi from LAPDO provided an insightful overview of the project titled “Promoting Accountability and Transparency in Local Government Procurement Processes.” She emphasized the importance of procurement as a critical entry point for improving local government activities. Following a baseline study, several recommendations were made:

  1. Capacity Building: There is an urgent need for training and retraining of staff to enhance their procurement skills.
  2. Strengthening Systems: Innovative ideas are essential to bolster the procurement system, making discussions like this one crucial.
  3. Proper Documentation: Improved documentation practices are necessary for transparency.

She also highlighted the significance of involving stakeholders during the budgeting phase to ensure effective allocation and procurement.

After a brief tea break and a group photo. Participants also engaged in meaningful discussions about the impact of accountability on local governance and development. Key takeaways included:

  • Meeting Local Needs: Effective local governance should address basic community needs, create economic opportunities, and promote inclusivity, all facilitated by accountability.
  • Innovation and Standards: To meet global standards, there is a pressing need to accelerate innovations within the state, requiring support from both government officials and community members.
  • Leveraging Decentralization: With ongoing decentralization efforts, local governments must seize the opportunities presented by this transition.

In closing, Mr. Oloniju expressed gratitude for the contributions made during the meeting. He encouraged all participants to continue advocating for transparency and accountability in local governance. The meeting wrapped up with a closing prayer, and participants were treated to lunch. The participants received some stipends to cover for their transportation costs.

This gathering not only underscored the importance of enhancing accountability in local government but also reinforced the collaborative spirit necessary for effective governance in Ondo State. As we move forward, continued advocacy and engagement from all stakeholders will be vital in promoting these essential values. Together, we can work towards a more accountable and transparent local government.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

*

Share:

More Posts

Kids & Teens Resource Centre Commemorates World AIDS Day 2025

Kids & Teens Resource Centre joined the global community to mark World AIDS Day 2025, standing with young people, families, and health stakeholders to strengthen the fight against HIV. This year’s commemoration, organized by the Ondo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ODSACA), brought together institutions, secondary school students, corps members, community volunteers, and civil society organizations across Akure. Deputy Governor Dr. Olaide Adelami delivering remarks at the Government House before the HIV Awareness Walk. Before the walk began, the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olaide Adelami, addressed participants at the Government House. He emphasized the importance of investing in prevention, increasing access to accurate information, and supporting individuals living with HIV without stigma or discrimination. His message set a strong tone for the day and reaffirmed the state’s dedication to protecting young people. Following the speech, the awareness walk took off from the Government House through key routes in Akure. Students, corps members, NGOs, community groups, and ODSACA representatives participated, drawing public attention to the message of testing, prevention, and collective action in ending AIDS. Students, corps members, NGOs, and community volunteers walking through Akure to raise awareness for World AIDS Day. During the event, Kids &

Empowering Girls and Families for a Healthier Future: OYA Campaign Phase Two

We officially kicked off the second phase of the OYA Campaign, in partnership with Girl Effect, and we are excited to continue empowering girls and their families with the knowledge they need for a healthier future. The OYA Campaign focuses on strengthening community awareness around HPV prevention, nutrition, and girls’ long-term wellbeing. Through this initiative, we aim to ensure that every girl, especially those in underserved communities has access to accurate information and supportive environments. 1. HPV Awareness & Education A major focus of this phase is educating 9-year-old girls and their parents about the HPV vaccine, an essential tool for preventing cervical cancer. Our team is working directly within communities, explaining: What HPV is Why early vaccination is important How parents can support their daughters’ health Parents expressed gratitude for receiving information they had never heard before. Primary school pupils displaying their HPV vaccination registration cards as part of the OYA Campaign outreach. Administering the HPV vaccine to a student during the OYA Campaign Phase Two exercise. 2. Nutrition for Growth & Well-being We are also teaching families the importance of nutrition in supporting: Healthy physical growth Strong immunity Overall wellbeing for girls and the entire household During our

Swiss Embassy Strengthens Teachers’ Capacity to Improve Classroom Delivery in Ondo State.

Empowering Teachers for a Brighter Future: Swiss Embassy and K&TRC Collaborate on Teacher Training Program On September 2, 2025, the Swiss Embassy in Nigeria, in partnership with Kids & Teens Resource Centre (K&TRC), successfully organized a one-day teacher training program under the _”Every Child in School”_ project. The capacity-building workshop brought together 200 teachers from public and private primary and secondary schools across five Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Ondo State. Equipping Teachers with Essential Skills The training focused on equipping educators with tools in positive discipline, soft skills development, and digital literacy to enhance classroom delivery and ensure every child remains in school. Guest facilitator, Ms. Maureen Awulonuh, an Academic Consultant and Neuro-Educator, delivered an interactive session on soft skills, highlighting problem-solving, communication, digital literacy, emotional intelligence, and leadership.   Positive Discipline and Classroom Transformation Mr. Martin-Mary Falana, CEO of K&TRC, explored the theme “Discipline and Not Punishment,” emphasizing the importance of empathy and positive reinforcement in the classroom. Teachers reflected on their personal experiences and acknowledged the effectiveness of positive discipline in promoting a supportive learning environment. Government Endorsement and Commitment Government representatives commended K&TRC for its continuous impact on education in Ondo State. Pastor Olalekan Adesida, representing