Media & Government Synergy Critical To Lagos Development – Says Deputy Governor 

The Lagos State Government has emphasised the crucial role of the media in achieving inclusive governance and sustainable development during a Breakfast Chat with the Media held recently.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, highlighted the media’s position as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, acknowledging their fundamental role alongside the executive, legislative, and judicial arms in shaping public discourse and driving national development.

“The media’s role transcends mere reporting; they are nation builders who help to shape narratives and public perception. This makes their partnership crucial in communicating government’s initiatives and fostering citizens’ engagement”, Hamzat stated.

Addressing concerns about negative narratives, the Deputy Governor urged the media practitioners to focus more on developmental issues, emphasising that while criticism is necessary, welcomed, balanced reporting that highlights both challenges and progress is essential for public understanding and support of the government’s developmental initiatives.

Explaining the rationale behind some controversial urban renewal decisions, the Deputy Governor said that Lagos faces three major existential threats: rising water levels, extreme rainfall, and heat and taking certain decisions, like removing structures in specific areas is not arbitrary but a necessary precaution against these environmental challenges threatening the city’s future.

Emphasising the need for stronger collaboration between government and media stakeholders, the Deputy Governor stated, “This kind of dialogue is exactly what is needed because when the media understands the context of government decisions, they can better inform the public.”

On his part, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Tajudeen, stated that the government seeks to maintain an open channel of communication with the media to ensure accurate dissemination of information about the government’s activities and initiatives as the media is another mode of citizen engagement for the government.

Highlighting some of the programmes of the Office, Afolabi said that the Office has focused on key areas such as voters’ education, legislative transparency, and increasing civic engagement and participation among Lagos state residents.

The Special Adviser added that in an unflinching effort to address the ongoing socio-economic challenges faced by Lagos residents, the State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has made significant strides in enhancing social welfare, disbursing over ₦700 million to assist 2,344 residents with crucial financial aid, including health expenses, housing needs, business support, and school fees under the Sanwo-Olu Listens Programme.

He further explained that to foster transparency and improve governance, the Lagos State Government has also introduced the Lagos CitizensGate Mobile App, to enhance citizen engagement, streamline communication with government agencies, and provide real-time access to government activities.

He added that the app, which is accessible on both smartphones and feature phones, allows residents to interact with over 145 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and serves as a platform for lodging complaints, making inquiries, and offering feedback on government policies and services.

Speaking on the Quarterly Sensitidation and Community Development Programmes that the Office engage in, Dr. Afolabi said that the sensitisation exercise is designed to educate residents about the government policies and foster peaceful coexistence, promote harmony and social development by informing the public about available resources and government initiatives.

“In 2024, the Office has visited several communities, and more visits are planned before the end of the year. These sensitization programmes help bridge the gap between the government and the people, ensuring that everyone is aware of how they can benefit from state resources”, he added.

Afolabi averred that the Office has worked closely with both protesters and relevant government bodies to ensure that the residents’ concerns are heard and addressed promptly and is committed to ensuring that the voices of Lagosians are always heard, especially when it comes to issues that affect their daily lives.

Addressing the various concerns raised by the media practitioners, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Engr. Sholabomi Shasore noted the posing and answering of questions shows that the media, exemplified the principle behind the CitizensGate initiative, but in a direct format.

The breakfast media chat, organised by the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, aligns with the Office mandate to foster dialogue between government and key stakeholders who serve as conduits for citizen engagement.

As the media plays a pivotal role in information dissemination, public discourse and feedback, this engagement represents a strategic approach to strengthening government-citizen communication channels.

The meeting also serves as a practical demonstration of the government’s commitment to transparency and inclusive governance, with both parties agreeing on the need for sustained dialogue and balanced reporting to drive citizens’ engagement in the state.