The Lagos State Government has called on Community Development Associations (CDAs) and Community Development Committees (CDCs) across the state to actively involve youths in their structures to enhance grassroots progress and ensure sustainable community development.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum in Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA), the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, reaffirmed government’s commitment to credible and transparent CDA/CDC elections as preparations for fresh executive polls get underway later this year.

Dr. Agbaje stressed that genuine commitment, not financial influence, should guide participation in community development elections. He also assured residents that government remains responsive to community needs such as water, social amenities, and infrastructure, while encouraging more communities to register and participate in CDA and CDC activities.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, explained that the forum was organised to address misconceptions about the CDA Constitution and election guidelines.

According to her, the sessions which will hold across all five divisions of Lagos will enable participants to ask questions, seek clarifications, and better understand their roles in strengthening community governance.

Chairman of Bariga LCDA, Hon. Bulala Omope Adedeji, commended the State Government for integrating CDAs and CDCs into its policies.

She pledged her administration’s continued support for community associations, promising to prioritise them in local council programmes.

The event also featured a presentation by community leader, Mr. Rotimi Owolawi, on the topic: “Overview of the CDA Constitution: Purpose, Importance, Scope and Understanding the Rudiments – Actions and Inactions.”

Dignitaries present at the forum included the Vice-Chairman of Bariga LCDA, Prince Babatunde Adeside; Council Leader, Hon. Wasiu Adeleke; Councillors; Council Manager, Mrs. Balogun Abiodun; facilitators; and other distinguished guests.

The forum ended with an interactive session where participants raised questions and received clarifications, reinforcing the State Government’s resolve to ensure fairness, inclusiveness, and credibility in CDA/CDC elections.