By: Asubiojo G. O.
In a gathering filled with reflection, encouragement, and renewed commitment to collective progress, the Head of Local Administration (HLA) of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-Bosede, on Monday addressed staff in an overwhelming meeting, delivering a deeply inspiring message that blended wisdom, humour, spiritual reflection, and a strong call to responsibility.
Mrs Akinbobola warmly enjoined staff to reflect on their conduct and embrace genuine love and affection for one another within the service, reminding them that beyond professional duties, humanity and compassion remain the pillars of a productive and progressive workplace.
Using a touching parental metaphor, she emphasized that:
“Our children must become greater and more uplifted than we are. Every sacrifice we make today should build a stronger future for them.”
Her message carried a spiritual tone, urging staff to live responsibly so that the next generation will inherit a better life and brighter opportunities.
She further re-emphasized her unwavering love and care for the staff of IILG, assuring them that their welfare, unity, and progress remain close to her heart.
While speaking on cooperation and the political structure shaping governance, the HLA lightened the atmosphere with a humorous but symbolic illustration.
She jokingly remarked that she once “got pregnant and went for a test, and the DNA result came out as BAO.”
the hall erupted in laughter, but the deeper message resonated clearly.
Through this analogy, she encouraged staff to reciprocate the good gestures of the present administration under Governor Abiodun Oyebanji (BAO), highlighting several welfare-oriented interventions that have positively impacted workers, essentially…
The eradication of the era of zero allocation that once crippled local government operations.
Improved staff welfare initiatives that have supported workers and their families.
Renewed commitment to sustainable development across the LCDAs.
Financial stability that has helped staff meet family responsibilities, including their children’s tuition fees.
She therefore urged staff to actively exercise their civic responsibility by registering and casting their votes, stressing that participation in the democratic process is both a right and a duty.
Importantly, she cautioned staff against engaging in eye service toward the present administration, warning that insincerity in service can undermine both personal integrity and collective progress.
Mrs. Akinbobola also addressed the ongoing development of the NULGE Hall, describing it as the most spacious and promising NULGE branch facility in Ekiti State, while reminding staff that the building belongs to them collectively.
She acknowledged the generous contribution of 20 bags of cement donated by the Chairman, Honourable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (popularly known as CHENCO), towards the completion of the project.
However, she emphasized that the completion and beautification of the hall must be achieved through the collective effort of staff, particularly those within IILG.
To support the first phase of the project, a modest contribution structure was proposed:
Level 1 – 6 Staff: ₦1,000 – ₦2,000
Senior Staff: ₦3,000
Deputy Directors: ₦3,000
Directors: ₦5,000
HLA: ₦10,000.
The contributions will focus on beautifying and completing the NULGE House as the first phase, with the second phase expected to commence after completion, targeted for April.
Departmental representatives will coordinate the contributions,
and the entire process will be supervised by the NULGE Treasurer to ensure accountability.
The HLA concluded by reminding staff that integrity remains the true measure of leadership, stressing that as officers advance in the service, their character and reputation will increasingly come under scrutiny.
She therefore encouraged staff to remain upright, prudent, and responsible in positions of authority.
Her words served both as a caution and a guiding light, urging staff to uphold honour, transparency, and responsibility in all their dealings.
In their responses, staff members collectively expressed deep appreciation and respect for the HLA, acknowledging her dedication, visionary leadership, and genuine concern for workers’ welfare.
However, they respectfully suggested that since the project is a NULGE building, the two LCDAs should also be involved in supporting the contribution, so that the responsibility does not rest solely on IILG staff.
Staff also appealed to the government to continue strengthening welfare packages, particularly in areas such as official claims and other staff entitlements.
Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-Bosede further encouraged staff not to remain silent when they face financial difficulties, advising them to openly communicate areas where they require support from the Local Government.
She confidently affirmed that the Governor will perform even better in the current term, noting that outstanding arrears owed to workers were paid at the inception of the administration, and expressing optimism that more welfare improvements will continue.
In his proactive response, the NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole Festus (popularly known as Lawii), showered commendations on the HLA, praising her brilliance, intelligence, integrity, and visionary leadership.
He described her as a boss guided by progressive ideals, noting that her commitment to staff welfare and institutional development remains exemplary and unrivalled.
He therefore encouraged staff to support the NULGE building project, emphasizing that:
“The NULGE building is our collective project, and its completion will stand as a lasting symbol of our unity and shared responsibility.”
The meeting ended on a note of renewed unity, gratitude, and collective commitment.
Beyond administrative discussions, the gathering served as a reminder that institutions grow stronger when love, cooperation, responsibility, and integrity guide the actions of their members.
Indeed, it was a moment where leadership met loyalty, humour blended with wisdom, and collective responsibility paved the way for sustainable progress.
