By Ohwevwo Enohor
A two-day capacity-building seminar aimed at strengthening legislative effectiveness within the local government system was held for councillors from the Delta North Senatorial District in Asaba.
The event, themed: “Achieving Effective Legislative Functions Within the Local Government System – The Role of Councillors,” took place at the Orchid Hotel, Asaba.
The seminar was organized by the Directorate of Local Government Affairs in collaboration with Wise Best Logistics.
The Chairman of the occasion, Sir Okey Ofili, and the Special Guest of Honour and Commissioner for Special Projects, Hon. Barr. Funyei Manager delivered the goodwill messages, commending the initiative and urging councillors to take full advantage of the knowledge-sharing opportunity.
In his welcome address, the Commissioner, Directorate of Local Government Affairs, Hon. Prince Kelly Kalanama Penawou, represented by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Mr. Paul Oyeye, highlighted the rationale behind the seminar.
He emphasized the need for continuous training of councillors to improve governance at the grassroots level. He subsequently declared the seminar open.
The first lecture was delivered by Dr. Ameachi Nwador of Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, who presented an overview of effective legislative functions, focusing on the vital role councillors play within the local government system.
This was followed by a session with Deputy Vice Chancellor of Dennis Osadebe University, Professor Robert Dode, who spoke on “Standards and Best Practices for Creating Sustainable Laws in Local Governments.”
Professor Onofere Princewill Okereka of the Department of Public Administration, Delta State University, Abraka, gave a compelling presentation on “Post-Passage Monitoring: Evaluating Bills and Ensuring Effective Oversight Functions of Councillors.”
Associate Professor, Clement Obagbinoko from Delta State University, Agbor, rounded out the lecture series with a talk on “Consensus and Harmony: Alternative Dispute Resolution in Legislative-Executive Relations.”
Collectively, the speakers underscored the importance of continuous education and professional development for councillors, encouraging them to seek further learning to enhance their legislative careers.
