Where Staff Welfare Meets Excellence: The Itire-Ikate LCDA Success Story

APATIRA’S ADMINISTRATION: A NEW ERA OF STAFF WELFARE

In a bold move to prioritize the welfare of its staff, the administration of Hon. (Dr.) Ahmed Olanrewaju Apatira, Executive Chairman of Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has implemented a series of innovative .

Since October 2024, the administration has been paying a monthly stipend of N20,000 to pensionable staff and N15,000 to non-pensionable staff. This gesture has significantly improved the financial well-being of staff members.

In another development, the staff financial assistance package has been increased from N700,000 to N1,000,000 since September 2024. This enhanced package is aimed at providing financial support to staff members in need.

Furthermore, management staff of Itire-Ikate have official cars at their disposal for the discharge of their duties. This move is expected to enhance productivity and efficiency.

During the festive period, the Executive Chairman demonstrated his commitment to staff welfare by giving:

•Owo-Odun: N40,000 to staff members
•Non-Pensionable Staff: N30,000 to support their well-being

The highlight of the festive season was the mega end-of-the-year party hosted by the Executive Chairman. The event was a celebration of excellence as staff members who excelled in their duties were recognized and rewarded.

Awards were given to staff members who distinguished themselves in various categories, including:

•Best Dressed Staff
•Outstanding Performance in various Departments/ Units/ General Duties
•Meritorious Service

The best staff of 2024 were also celebrated for their hard work and dedication to the council. This recognition is a testament to the council’s commitment to rewarding excellence and motivating staff to strive for greatness.

Mrs. Yetunde Ajose, the Council Manager praised and appreciated the Executive Chairman, Hon. (Dr.) Ahmed Olanrewaju Apatira for his kind gestures and exceptional service delivery. She referred to him as a man with a large heart, always ensuring the Staff of Itire-Ikate LCDA are highly comfortable.

Comrade Adebayo Solomon, Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Itire-Ikate LCDA Chapter, also commended the Executive Chairman, describing him as a selfless leader with humility. According to Comrade Solomon, Hon. (Dr.) Apatira is always eager to solve problems affecting staff members and his value addition to staff cannot be measured. He further praised the Executive Chairman for fostering a cordial relationship with staff and ensuring easy access to his office.

Notably, the Executive Chairman has demonstrated a passionate heart and a non-discriminatory approach to leadership. He always selects staff members from all cadres, including low-ranking officers, to join senior officers in representing him for awards/ other programs within and outside Lagos. This inclusive approach has boosted staff morale and reinforced the sense of unity and shared purpose within the council.

In addition, Hon. (Dr.) Apatira has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the health and well-being of staff members. He provides medical assistance, free drugs, and free medical services at the staff clinic, aimed at improving their standard of living. This gesture has been widely appreciated by staff members, who see it as a clear demonstration of the Executive Chairman’s concern for their welfare.

Furthermore, the Apatira administration has prioritized staff development and capacity building. The administration has organized various training programs for staff, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their duties. Additionally, the administration has sponsored staff members for professional training, enabling them to measure up with the latest developments in their fields. This commitment to staff development has enhanced productivity and efficiency within the council.

According to Mr. Mukaila Kuti, Head of Admin and Human Resources, “The Executive Chairman has provided tools to work as well as conducive working environments, which has greatly improved our productivity and efficiency.”

Commenting on these initiatives, Hon. (Dr.) Apatira said, “The welfare of our staff is of utmost importance to us. We recognize that a motivated and financially stable workforce is essential for the effective delivery of our mandate.”

The staff of Itire-Ikate LCDA have expressed their gratitude to the Executive Chairman for his kindness and commitment to their welfare.