The Executive Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, Hadji Abdulrasheed Femi Yusuf, inaugurated a 71-member Elders Advisory Council on Tuesday at the Council Secretariat in Share.
The Advisory Council comprises political office holders, former office holders, party stakeholders, and community leaders from across the Local Government. It is intended to provide guidance, advice, and support to the Executive Chairman and his team as they work toward the development of Ifelodun Local Government.
The Chairman affirmed his commitment to an administration that values inclusive decision-making and local representation, the Elders Advisory Council's role is central to achieving the government’s goals.
"I am committed to listening to the voices of our elders and leaders to build a structure that respects our diverse needs and ensures that this council can guide us in taking unified, effective action across the nine districts of Ifelodun Local Government," he stated.
The Council’s mandate includes advising on policies that reflect the community’s needs and values, as well as holding regular quarterly meetings to assess ongoing projects and ensure alignment with Ifelodun’s goals. "Ifelodun can only achieve greatness with the steadfast support of all stakeholders," he added.
The Council is chaired by His Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Kayode Alabi, with Senator Makajuola Suleiman Ajadi as Vice Chairman 1, Chief MT Lawal as Vice Chairman 2, and Engr. Job Burema as Vice Chairman 3. Alhaji Surajudeen Babatunde serves as Secretary 1, and Hajia Kuburat Aderamo as Secretary 2, with Hon. Jubril Emilagba and Barrister Olarewaju Falola as Political Advisers to the Chairman.
Other council members include Dr. Segun Ogunshola, Mallam Rafiu Ajakaye, Hon. AGF Salahuddeen, Hon. Rasaq Owolabi, Arc Lukman Abubakar, Hon. Benjamin Ayanshola, Elder Kayode Abogunrin, Lawyer Kehinde Hassan Garuba, Dr. (Rev.) Baba Kosalamala, Dr. Tunde Salami, Hon. Fatai Adeniyi Garba, Hon. Elizabeth Olabimpe, Alhaji Basiru Adigun, Dr. Salau Yola, Hon. Kayode Ishola, Hon. Suleiman Lawal Duduyemi, Elder Oyin Zubair, Chief Ademola Zubair, Chief IB Lawal, Akeem Olayinka Nurudeen, and other stakeholders.
Speaking on behalf of the Elders' Advisory Council, Chief MT Lawal expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, assuring that they would provide the best counsel possible, as the Chairman’s success is their collective happiness.
In a goodwill message, Elder Olukayode Abogunrin praised the Chairman for his proactive approach, noting that the establishment of this council demonstrated his readiness to maximize opportunities. He encouraged fellow council members to stand firmly by the Chairman’s vision and efforts to pave the way for sustainable development and progress in Ifelodun.