BADAGRY, LAGOS – In a major step toward boosting rural development and transparency, the Humanity Family Foundation for Peace and Development (HUFFPED), in partnership with ActionAid Nigeria, has officially launched the Local Government Accountability Forum (LoGAF).
The landmark event, held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Badagry Local Government Secretariat, established a strategic platform aimed at amplifying the voices of grassroots communities and ensuring their needs are integrated directly into local governance.
The summit brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from Badagry LG, Ojo LG, Badagry West LCDA, Olorunda LCDA, relevant government agencies, and various community groups.
A LoGAF committee was formed during the session to drive the initiative’s objectives across the divisions.
Hon. Babatunde Hunpe the Executive chairman of Badagry Local Government In a strong show of institutional backing, was appointed as the chairman of the newly minted committee.
Delivering his address, Hunpe commended the non-governmental organisations for choosing the corridor for the pilot launch, while advocating for inclusive growth.
"We here in Badagry appreciate what you're doing, but we want more," Hon. Hunpe stated. "The farmers, the artisans, and most importantly, the youths don't forget to carry them along. The local government is ready to support you at any point and time you need us."
The primary focus of LoGAF is to serve as a regular bridge between rural dwellers and policymakers.
Speaking on the design of the forum, Celestine Okwudili, the Head of Programmes at ActionAid Nigeria, explained that the platform was birthed out of a desire to systematically pull rural communities out of developmental isolation.
"This is a platform to reach out to the rural communities in Badagry," Okwudili noted. "The expectation is that the committee drives the objectives of the group at the local government level. We expect them to meet from time to time, set agendas, and get the voices of the people. The most important thing is the community liaising with the local government chairman to integrate the needs of the people into the Local Government appropriation annually."
Okwudili expressed profound gratitude for the warm reception, adding, "This is the first local government where this is launched, and I appreciate it. The most important thing is the open check the local government has given us that they are ready to support us at all times."
The launch was met with widespread enthusiasm from civil society and youth leaders who have witnessed the long-term interventions of the driving organisations in the Local Government.
Reflecting on the milestone, Saanu Kola, the Youth President of Akoko Community, praised the partnering bodies for their consistency.
"This is a very commendable move," Kola shared. "ActionAid has been in my community for the past two years, empowering and supporting our people. What we are having here today is additional to the good works ActionAid has been doing in Badagry for the past five years, and we are very happy about all they do."