The Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, says the state government has completed 198 roads across all the local governments to boost connectivity and economic growth.
Hamzat said this at a media parley held on Wednesday in Lagos.
The parley was organised by the Office of Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement.
Hamzat said that 198 roads had been completed since the beginning of their administration.
He said the state was experiencing a transformative era under the Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu/Hamzat administration, marked by unprecedented infrastructure development and innovative governance.
He explained that the feat was part of the administration’s broader vision to create an inclusive and investor-friendly environment.
According to him, the state is undergoing over 189 projects that are aimed at enhancing the welfare of Lagosians, particularly the younger generation, and streamlining business operations.
Hamzat noted that the projects would impact the socio-economic development of the people and mitigate against rural-urban migration.
The deputy governor also spoke on the ‘Lagos Citizensgate Mobile Application’
He said the app was created to foster grassroots participation and governance.
“Lagos Citizensgate” app has been a game-changer, providing a platform for citizens to engage with the government, air grievances, and receive solutions.
“The app enables citizens to report non-emergency issues such as bad roads or drainage problems.
“Access various government services, including health and education, provide suggestions for better governance, report incidents of abuse or domestic violence among others.
“By leveraging the “Lagos Citizensgate” app, the government is bridging the gap between citizens and policymakers, ensuring that every voice is heard,” he said.
The deputy governor advocated collaborative approach between the government and media practitioners to promote inclusive governance in Nigeria.
He emphasised the crucial role the media play in nation-building, highlighting the need for objective reportage that balances positive and negative news.
Hamzat cautioned against perpetuating negative narratives, citing the example of Nigeria’s education system.
He questioned why Western countries like Britain and America were recruiting Nigerian teachers, doctors, and nurses if the education system was truly decaying.
He encouraged media practitioners to focus on the positives, showcasing the government’s achievements in areas such as road infrastructure, drainage, education, healthcare, transportation, and waste management.
“A lot of things that we do in Lagos seem not to be well disseminated to the public.
“As a people, we need to talk positively about the country and discuss facts and issues that are relevant to the growth and development of the country rather than diminishing it,” Hamzat said.
In his opening remarks, Dr Tajudeen Afolabi, the Special Adviser to Gov. Sanwo-Olu on Political, Legislative & Civic Engagement, said the state government was taking bold steps to alleviate the economic hardship faced by its residents.
According to him, the administration’s “Greater Lagos Rising” vision prioritises relief efforts and harmonious relationships with stakeholders.
Afolabi highlighted some initiatives by the administration which includes “Sanwo Olu Listens” Financial Assistance Programme.
“This is a comprehensive social welfare programme that directly addresses financial and social challenges faced by vulnerable residents.
“Over N700 million was disbursed in 2024 to over 2,000 residents, helping with health, accommodation, business, and school fees challenges.
“The T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda fosters an inclusive and resilient Lagos, ensuring every resident has opportunities to thrive,” he said.
Afolabi said the Office of Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement, is committed to encouraging civic activities and democratic processes.
“We build peaceful cohabitation among residents and delivering on its mandate through hard work and dedication,” he said.
He, therefore, called for synergy and dissemination of happenings in Lagos with the Fourth Estate of the realm.
