Mayor Dele Oshinowo Bags Vanguard Grassroots Governance Icon of the Year Award
By Oki Samson
In a grand ceremony celebrating excellence in leadership, Mayor Dele Oshinowo, the Executive Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, was awarded the prestigious Vanguard Grassroots Governance Icon of the Year title. The event, held during the Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards 2025, was graced by political heavyweights, community leaders, and dignitaries, reaffirming the importance of grassroots leadership in driving national development.
Mayor Oshinowo, fondly known for his innovative and people-oriented approach, has emerged as a beacon of transformational leadership in Lagos State. His administration has been lauded for delivering tangible results that have significantly impacted the lives of Agboyi-Ketu residents. Once a hub for criminal activity, the LCDA has been redefined through monumental projects, earning it the admiration of many as a model for local governance.
Transformative Infrastructural Achievements
Under Mayor Oshinowo’s stewardship, Agboyi-Ketu LCDA has witnessed a metamorphosis. Key infrastructural developments include:
- Crime-free Urban Estates: Formerly crime-ridden areas such as Mile 12 have been turned into serene and highbrow residential estates.
- Public Facilities: The construction of a modern stadium, functional healthcare centers, bridges, and new schools has provided both recreational opportunities and essential services.
- Road Development: Paving new roads and upgrading existing ones has not only improved connectivity but also stimulated economic growth.
These achievements underscore his commitment to turning local councils into engines of urban development.
Empowerment and Social Impact
Beyond infrastructure, Oshinowo has prioritized human development. His administration has rolled out initiatives to uplift the less privileged and create opportunities for socio-economic mobility. Highlights include:
- Education Support: Scholarships and funding for indigent students have bridged the gap for those previously unable to access quality education.
- MSME Support: Grants and soft loans for small businesses have empowered over 1,500 petty traders to boost their businesses.
- Youth and Women Empowerment: Vocational training and skills acquisition programs have provided avenues for self-sustainability and job creation.
- Security and Peacebuilding: Proactive engagement with community members has fostered peaceful coexistence and stability in the area.
His dedication to inclusivity and empowerment earned him the trust and admiration of both the grassroots and his political peers.
During his acceptance speech, Mayor Oshinowo attributed his success to the mentorship and leadership framework laid down by national leaders like Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He emphasized the critical role of LGAs and LCDAs in achieving sustainable development, noting, “The financial autonomy we’ve championed in Lagos for over two decades remains the bedrock of our state’s continuous progress.”
In a show of transparency and connection with the electorate, Oshinowo highlighted his direct communication strategies, including regular engagement with residents and traders. “Next week, we’ll distribute N75 million to 1,500 traders. For many of these small business owners, N50,000 can make a world of difference,” he said, underscoring his commitment to grassroots economic growth.
The award night was not only a celebration of Mayor Oshinowo’s achievements but also a showcase of exceptional governance across Nigeria. Other awardees included Mr. Deji Adeleke, named Vanguard Personality of the Year, and state governors like Prof. Charles Soludo of Anambra and Sen. Douye Diri of Bayelsa for their contributions to development.
Dignitaries present at the event included Vanguard Newspaper Chairman Uncle Sam Amuka, the Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, and business mogul Mr. Atedo Peterside. Guests were entertained by captivating performances from Johnny Drille and Laolu Gbenjo, adding rhythm and melody to the night of celebration.
