Falegan Delivers Keynote Address at Ojokoro LCDA Legislative Budget Retreat

Hon. Raphael Oluwagbenga Falegan has delivered the keynote address on Day Two of the 6th Legislative Arm Budget Retreat of Ojokoro Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

The session commenced with the formal introduction of councillors by the Deputy Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon. Adeyemi Babasola, followed by an opening prayer led by the Chief Whip, Hon. Segun Jolaosho (Custard).

In his keynote remarks, Hon. Falegan—who previously served as Deputy Leader of Ojokoro LCDA—briefly introduced himself and congratulated the councillors on their electoral victory. He expressed gratitude to the legislators for inviting him to serve as facilitator for the retreat.

Hon. Falegan acknowledged the high expectations placed on lawmakers, noting that financial limitations sometimes affect performance. He urged councillors to remain committed to the collective interests of their communities and to maintain a clear understanding of their duties as representatives of the people.

He emphasized the need for public enlightenment on the responsibilities of legislative councillors, stressing that a budget retreat should not be treated as a routine exercise but as a robust platform for scrutinising departmental budget proposals.

According to him, legislators are constitutionally empowered to thoroughly examine budgets and perform effective oversight functions.

Hon. Falegan encouraged the lawmakers to strengthen collaboration with the Council Clerk, ensuring proper documentation, timely memos, and well-structured budget defence schedules with Heads of Departments.

He also highlighted the critical role of the legislative arm in making bye-laws and ensuring proper documentation with relevant judicial authorities.

Speaking further on the significance of budgeting, he described the budget as a vital tool for enhancing community wellbeing and driving development.

He advised the councillors—many of whom are young legislators—to adequately prepare for the responsibilities before them and to embrace the values of love, unity, and people-centred leadership.

He reiterated that budgetary appropriations must be judiciously managed to sustain good governance and maintain effective checks and balances between the executive and legislative arms.

During the retreat, councillors engaged in interactive discussions, asking questions on governance and legislative procedures.

The two-day programme concluded with commendations, reflections, and shared experiences among participants.