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After years of all-male representation from Nigeria at the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF), a strong female voice has finally re-emerged on the regional stage. Hon. Folasade Adeyemo, Ph.D., Chairman of Odeda Local Government in Ogun State, is currently participating in the ongoing CLGF Executive Strategic Leadership and Management Course in Accra, Ghana—restoring visibility to women’s leadership in grassroots governance.

Adeyemo’s presence marks a significant turning point in Nigeria’s delegation history, where women had long been sidelined from critical governance conversations. Her participation goes beyond symbolism; it reflects a growing consensus that women’s perspectives are indispensable to building inclusive, equitable, and sustainable governance systems across West Africa.

At the summit, Adeyemo has been a vocal advocate for gender balance, tolerance, and improved service delivery. She emphasized that women must be fully integrated into the architecture of local governance if meaningful development is to be achieved at the grassroots.

The three-day leadership and management course has provided a robust platform for participants to interrogate governance models, exchange peer-review mechanisms, and craft transformative blueprints for local government development. Adeyemo noted that the summit’s timing aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed emphasis on rural governance—making the discussions both urgent and strategically relevant.

Adeyemo is part of a high-powered ALGON delegation led by Hon. Ikenna Adikibe, Deputy National President of ALGON. Other members of the delegation include Ibrahim Hassan Jauro (Taraba), Hon. Hamisu Anani (Plateau), Hon. Chief Isaiah Esiovwa (Delta), Hon. Olusegun Ojo (Ekiti), Hon. Lelei Isaach Tariye (Bayelsa), principal officer Elder Otuonye I from the ALGON Secretariat, and senior local government executives from selected LGAs across the country.

Together, the delegation is redefining the role of local governments, projecting them not as passive administrative units but as active drivers of regional economic growth and community-led development.

Hon. Adeyemo’s performance as Chairman of Odeda Local Government has already earned her widespread recognition. From landmark projects across ten wards to her steadfast commitment to public service, she has solidified her reputation as a leader of exceptional vision and competence.

Her re-introduction of a female voice into Nigeria’s CLGF delegation stands as a milestone achievement—affirming the indispensable role of women in governance and leadership.

Adeyemo expressed heartfelt appreciation to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his unwavering support for gender balance and the significant developmental strides achieved under his administration. She noted that the governor’s commitment has created an enabling environment for women in leadership to thrive and excel.