Gwagwalada Development Is My Priority, Hon. Kasim Declares, Dedicates Public Service Award to Team
By Ahiaba Douglas
The Executive Chairman of Gwagwalada Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory, Hon. Mohammed Kasim, has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to transform the council through purposeful leadership, people-oriented programmes and quality service delivery.
Kasim stated this shortly after receiving the prestigious “Icon of Public Service and Community Development” award from Democracy NEWSLINE Newspaper at his office in the council secretariat yesterday.
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The recognition, which also culminated in his induction into the newspaper’s Good Governance Hall of Fame, is coming barely two months after he assumed office and has been described as an early vote of confidence in the direction of his administration.
Speaking during the presentation, Kasim declared that the development of Gwagwalada Area Council would remain the central focus of his administration, stressing that the mandate given to him by the people was a call to service and not an avenue for personal gratification.
According to him, his administration is determined to provide leadership that directly impacts the lives of residents by improving the quality of services, creating opportunities and promoting development across the communities that make up the area council.
«“I have a mandate from the people to represent them and provide services that will uplift and enhance their living standards. This honour will only encourage me to double my efforts in serving our people.”»
The chairman explained that he was unable to attend the newspaper’s 16th Public Lecture and Induction Ceremony held on August 19 at the National Merit House, Maitama, Abuja, where the award was originally scheduled to be presented, because of other important official engagements.
He, however, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to receive the honour in his office, saying he believed that the timing was part of God’s plan.
Kasim used the occasion to send a strong message of determination to the people of Gwagwalada, declaring that inherited challenges would not distract his administration from delivering on its promises.
He acknowledged the huge debt burden inherited from the previous administration but maintained that the financial situation could not become an excuse for abandoning the responsibilities entrusted to him by the electorate.
Rather, he said his administration would remain focused, strategic and determined to move the council forward despite the challenges confronting it.
The chairman further assured residents that his leadership would continue to operate an open-door policy, welcoming constructive ideas, initiatives and contributions capable of promoting good governance and accelerating development.
He said every meaningful idea aimed at making Gwagwalada better would receive the attention it deserves, regardless of its source.
“This government belongs to the people. Any idea or initiative that can bring development, improve governance and make life better for our people is welcome,” he stated.
While dedicating the award to members of his team, Hon. Kasim praised them for their commitment, cooperation and sacrifices toward the success of the administration.
He stressed that the recognition was not an award for him alone, but a collective honour for everyone working with him to reposition Gwagwalada Area Council.
He also expressed appreciation to the Board, Management and Staff of Democracy NEWSLINE Newspaper for recognising his efforts barely two months into office, describing the award as both an honour and a responsibility.
According to him, the recognition has further strengthened his resolve to work harder and justify the confidence reposed in his administration.
The chairman called on residents of Gwagwalada Area Council to continue supporting government at all levels, noting that sustainable development requires a strong partnership between the government and the people.
He appealed to the people to remain patient, supportive and constructive, assuring them that his administration would continue to pursue programmes and policies that place their welfare at the forefront.
The ceremony climaxed with the presentation of the Icon of Public Service and Community Development award plaque to Hon. Mohammed Kasim and his formal induction into the Good Governance Hall of Fame, with the presentation of a commemorative medal.
The honour is expected to further strengthen the administration’s public service agenda as the Kasim-led government continues its drive to provide purposeful leadership and position Gwagwalada Area Council for greater development.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, AUGUST 27, 2026)
