INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE: LASG HOLDS STRATEGIC ENGAGEMENT WITH POLITICAL CLASS IN IKORODU
In a deliberate move to strengthen inclusive governance and promote meaningful citizen participation, the Lagos State Government, through the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement (OPL&CE) has organised a one-day Strategic Engagement with the Political Class in Ikorodu Division.
The event was held on Tuesday, 10th January, 2026 at the Exclusives, Ireshe Road, Ikorodu.
Delivering his Opening Remark, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen, represented by Assistant Director (Scientific), Mr. Sanya Adepoju, said that the engagement is part of the Office’s broader initiative to enhance understanding and acceptance of Government projects by promoting community ownership and encouraging active grassroots participation.
He added that the event underscores Lagos State Government’s commitment to bridging the gap between policy formulation and community realities, as well as fostering dialogue, collaboration, and shared responsibility in governance.
Dr. Tajudeen noted that another key objective of the engagement is to strengthen the capacity of political leaders and stakeholders to effectively communicate Government policies, programmes, and initiatives to their constituencies, emphasising that as frontline actors within their communities, they play a critical role in shaping public perception, driving acceptance, and mobilising citizen participation, serving as essential links between the Government and the people.
He added that the importance of constructive dialogue between political actors and Government representatives cannot be overlooked, describing stakeholders as invaluable partners whose early involvement in project planning fosters responsibility, long-term success, and the shared vision of a #Greater Lagos built on participation and accountability.
He, therefore, urged the participants to engage openly, contribute practical solutions, and remain committed to advancing the shared vision of a #Greater Lagos built on participation, accountability, and collective responsibility.
In her address, the Permanent Secretary of the Office, Engr. Sholabomi Shasore, while welcoming the participants, described the gathering as a convergence of recognised leaders and diverse groups who play significant roles within their communities and influence the socio-political landscape of Ikorodu.
Appreciating Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Kadri Hamzat for supporting the initiative, she said that the Office, which operates under the Governor’s Office, was established to bring governance closer to the people by bridging communication gaps, promote inclusive engagement across social class, ethnic background, and creed, as well as facilitate and institutionalise structured platforms through which citizens can engage government in a uniform and informed manner.
She stated that the purpose of the engagement is to strengthen collaboration and enhance leaders’ capacity to effectively communicate Government policies, programmes, and initiatives within their constituencies, emphasising that the Office engages diverse sectors because effective governance must transcend political, social, and ethnic differences, and that active engagement fosters community ownership, promoting project sustainability, preparedness, and collective responsibility.
While emphasising that continuous dialogue is essential for building trust and improving governance outcomes, the Permanent Secretary also disclosed that similar engagements will be replicated across the three Senatorial Districts of Lagos State to deepen participation and reinforce inclusive governance across the state.
Delivering the keynote presentation, Professor of Ageing and Retirement, Department of Adult and Development Education, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun. Ogun State, Nigeria, Prof. Omotayo Olatubosun highlighted the importance of civic engagement in governance optimisation, saying that governance is the practical expression of intention, and without effective communication and interaction, even well-designed policies may fail, there is a need for synergy between the government and its citizens.
He added that the essential pillars of effective governance such as cooperation, conflict management, healthy rivalry, cohesion, and sincerity of purpose, must be consistently applied, noting that good policies are those that positively impact citizens and reflect their needs and realities, therefore Government must continually gauge the pulse of the people to achieve meaningful development.
During the feedback session, many participants commended the Lagos State Government for the initiative and requested that such engagements be held periodically.
Some of the participants also outlined several challenges affecting some areas in Ikorodu including environmental and drainage issues particularly along Isawo Road; waste management challenges, road encroachment by traders; insecurity in certain areas linked to drug activities and harassment; poor road conditions across various communities; need for alternative access routes; inadequate market infrastructure; absence of rail connectivity; high cost of living and transportation; insufficient medical equipment in health centres; issues of policy and project sustainability, allegations of extortion; declining public trust and the need for more frequent and decentralised engagement platforms.
The Permanent Secretary of the Office assured participants that all concerns raised would be documented and escalated through appropriate Government channels, reaffirming the State Government’s commitment to responsive, people-centred, and inclusive governance.
Present at the engagement were a former Lagos State Commissioner for Information and an APC stalwart. Otunba Ayodele Elesho, Baales, Youth Parliament Executives, Political Players, Traditional Rulers, prominent Muslim and Christian Religious Leaders, Community Development Committee Representatives and Leaders of various Artisan Associations in Ikorodu.
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