Lagos Deputy Governor urges media collaboration to drive national growth
Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between the government and media practitioners to promote inclusive governance and nation-building.
He made the call on Wednesday during a media parley organized by the Office of Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement, tagged “Breakfast Media Chat,” at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island.
Dr. Hamzat highlighted the critical role of the media, often referred to as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, in shaping public opinion and fostering national development.
He stressed the importance of objective reporting, cautioning against narratives that could undermine the country’s image and progress.
“It would be counterproductive if the media focuses on amplifying negatives. For instance, there’s a widespread belief that Nigeria’s education system is declining. If that’s true, why are countries like the UK and the US recruiting our teachers, doctors, and nurses? Practitioners should report our successes while holding us accountable for failures,” Hamzat said.
He further highlighted the need for balanced reporting, particularly on government initiatives, noting that many of Lagos State’s achievements, such as infrastructure projects and social programs, remain underreported.
“Lagos is executing over 189 projects aimed at enhancing the welfare of residents and promoting socio-economic development. These include over 198 road constructions across local governments. Such efforts need to be better disseminated to the public,” Hamzat added.
The Deputy Governor also highlighted the “Lagos Citizensgate” mobile application as a key tool for fostering grassroots participation and enhancing governance. The app serves as a platform for residents to engage with the government, report grievances, and receive timely solutions.
According to Hamzat, this initiative aligns with the Sanwo-Olu/Hamzat administration’s vision of creating an inclusive, investor-friendly Lagos.
In his remarks, Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement, reiterated the government’s commitment to alleviating economic hardships faced by Lagosians.
He highlighted the “Sanwo-Olu Listens” Financial Assistance Program, which disbursed over ₦700 million in 2024 to support more than 2,000 vulnerable residents with health, accommodation, business, and education expenses.
“This program reflects the administration’s commitment to the T.H.E.M.E.S+ Agenda, aimed at building a resilient and inclusive Lagos where every resident has the opportunity to thrive,” Tajudeen said.
Dr. Tajudeen also reaffirmed the government’s dedication to promoting civic engagement, community building, and peaceful coexistence among residents.
The “Breakfast Media Chat” reinforced the importance of collaboration between the government and media practitioners in advancing the “Greater Lagos Rising” vision, ensuring that the state remains a model of inclusive governance and sustainable development.
