In a move to improve the lives of grassroots communities, the Ekiti State Government advises local council authorities to uphold fiscal discipline and ensure the efficient allocation of resources.
Folorunso Olabode, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, delivered this message during a workshop focused on creating the 2025-2027 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework for officials of Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas.
Emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the needs of the people and agriculture in the upcoming budgets, Olabode highlighted the significance of meeting citizens’ expectations and enhancing food security.
Conducted by the Ministry of Local Government Affairs in collaboration with the Budget, Economic Planning, and Performance Management department, the workshop aimed to educate council officials on setting up the MTEF. This three-year plan aligns budgeting processes with development objectives to ensure sustainable progress.
“Discussing the issue of financial autonomy for LGs is crucial as it impacts strategic planning and resource allocations,” Olabode stressed, urging efficient resource utilization for impactful citizen-centered programs.
While recognizing Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to preserving council funds, Olabode assured continued focus on grassroots development.
He encouraged LGs/LCDAs to engage stakeholders actively, stating, “Involvement of all relevant stakeholders in the budget preparation process, especially based on the MTEF, is paramount.”
Agriculture and empowering local farmers should be key focuses in the 2025 budgets to boost food production in communities, the commissioner added.
“The state government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, is collaborating with LGs/LCDAs to clear land for agricultural activities,” Olabode emphasized.
He reiterated the government’s dedication to constructing 5km roads across LGs/LCDAs as directed by the Governor, highlighting progress in road planning and consultancy this year.
Mr. Niyi Adebayo, the Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning, and Performance Management, explained that the workshop aimed to train LG officials on fiscal discipline and effective MTEF implementation.
Alhaja Maryam Ogunlade, Chairperson of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Committee on Local Governments, stressed the importance of following necessary steps in preparing the 2025 budget to achieve desired outcomes.
Ogunlade emphasized that adherence to the MTEF would assist in reaching strategic goals such as poverty reduction and increased employment and investments, ultimately benefiting economic activities and enhancing citizens’ safety and security.