BY Andy Akeni/Rita Oyiboka
Delta State government has organised a two-day intensive leadership workshop to boost capacity of local government chairmen and their vice chairmen to accelerate good governance, development and delivery of democratic dividends to the people at the grassroots.
The workshop, which was held in Asaba, was organized by the Directorate of Local Government Affairs in partnership with Wisebest Logistics.
It was targeted to equip local government leaders with the tools necessary for effective administration and community development.
Declaring the workshop open, the State Commissioner, Directorate of Local Government Affairs, Hon. Prince Kalanama Penawou, said the workshop was crucial for newly elected local government leaders, as they are the driving force of the third tier of government.
According to him, “As key drivers of the third tier of government, which is the closest to the people, it is required that you should be equipped with up-to-date knowledge and skills in leadership needed for the administration and management at the councils.”
He thanked the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori-led administration for creating an enabling environment for the equipping of leaders with relevant skills for effective administration.
“I wish to use this opportunity to thank His Excellency, the Governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for creating the enabling environment for this workshop to hold.
“It is expected that the programme will create the necessary atmosphere for us to compare notes and re-strategize for better performance, for the good of the people at the grassroots,” he said.
The workshop featured an array of resource persons who lectured on essential topics relevant to local governance.
Notable among them was Prof. Franklins Sanubi, who delivered a lecture on the fundamentals of effective leadership. He emphasized the importance of communication and connection with constituents.
Also, Dr. Adedamola Awoyemi handled the topic that focused on stress management, highlighting the significance of self-care and emotional intelligence in leadership roles.
Financial transparency and accountability were addressed by the Auditor-General (LG) of Delta State, Ukpaka Ikenna, who stressed the importance of sound financial practices for earning the trust of the communities served.
Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Public Administration at the Delta State University, Abraka, Dr. Onofere Okereka shared insights on grassroots governance, emphasizing the need for local government leaders to actively engage with their communities.
The workshop also included a session by Professor of Political Science at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Robert Dode, who focused on managing executive-legislative relationships in the newly autonomous local government councils.
He encouraged fostering a cohesive team environment, saying; empower your team members to contribute their ideas, as a strong team is essential for effective governance.
The event featured questions and answers sessions on governance. challenges and remedies.
