Lagos week in review: Government focuses on food security, education, public health
The Lagos State Government recorded several activities between Monday, October 5, and Sunday, October 11, 2026, covering food security, education, public health, urban development and the creative industry. The week featured engagements by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the deputy governor, ministries and government agencies. While some activities involved direct engagements at Alausa, others took place at different locations across the state. Together, the developments offered a glimpse into the administration’s priorities and the issues affecting residents.
Traditional rulers, government stress community peace
One of the notable engagements was Governor Sanwo-Olu’s meeting with the Onise of Ise, Oba Ibrahim Adebowale Saliu, and members of his council at the State House, Alausa.
During the meeting, the governor stressed the importance of peace, security and responsible leadership at the community level, particularly in areas experiencing increased investment and development. In response, the monarch pledged to support efforts to maintain peace and presented the governor with a letter of appreciation for the state government’s support. The meeting highlighted the role traditional rulers can play in promoting community relations and supporting development.
Lagos prepares for 2026 World Food Day
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems began preparations for the 2026 World Food Day celebration, with Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Systems, Dr Oluwarotimi Fashola, announcing plans to bring together about 3,500 farmers and other stakeholders.
The programme is expected to feature exhibitions of locally produced goods, farming equipment and new agricultural solutions. It will also showcase state initiatives such as the Imota Rice Mill, Eko Rice and support programmes for farmers. Other planned activities include an awareness walk on October 8, an agricultural quiz on October 14 and a grand finale with an exhibition on October 16.
Education: Lagos directs unapproved private schools to register
In the education sector, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education directed private schools operating without the required approval to register with the Office of Education Quality Assurance.
The directive, announced on October 7, is part of efforts to ensure that private schools comply with state regulations and meet the required standards. It also draws attention to concerns about the safety of pupils and the quality of education provided by unapproved institutions. Going forward, the effectiveness of the directive will depend on how consistently the relevant authorities inspect schools and enforce the regulations.
Government restates commitment to teachers’ welfare
Similarly, the state used the 2026 World Teachers’ Day celebration on October 5 to restate its commitment to teachers’ welfare and improved learning conditions.
Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, who represented Sanwo-Olu at the event held at the Teachers’ Pavilion in Agidingbi, highlighted the government’s efforts to recruit teachers and provide support for them. According to the state government, 4,353 qualified teachers were recruited between 2023 and 2025, while an additional recruitment exercise had been approved. The government also cited ₦102.5 million in approved teachers’ housing loans.
Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education Jamiu Alli-Balogun announced the restoration of the Teachers’ Merit Awards. However, teachers’ representatives raised concerns about school security, inadequate infrastructure and staffing, issues that will require continued attention.
Public health: Lagos targets stronger HIV screening and treatment
On public health, the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency announced plans to strengthen HIV screening and treatment efforts across the state’s 57 local government areas and local council development areas.
The agency’s chief executive officer, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, called on local authorities to play a more active role in HIV prevention and care within their communities. Beyond encouraging more people to get tested, the initiative aims to ensure that those who test positive are connected to treatment and receive continued care. Its success, however, will depend on effective implementation, access to healthcare services and sustained public awareness.
Housing and urban development remain priorities
Housing and urban development also featured in the government’s activities during the week. The Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development highlighted the need for housing policies that go beyond constructing buildings to address affordability, infrastructure and access to essential services.
This is particularly important in Lagos, where rapid population growth continues to put pressure on housing, transport and public utilities. While the government’s position points to the need for more comprehensive urban planning, residents will be looking for practical results, including more affordable housing options and improved living conditions.
LAWMA highlights community recycling and sanitation
In the environmental sector, the Lagos State Government highlighted an initiative by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to strengthen community recycling and environmental clean-up efforts.
The initiative draws attention to the need for residents to take greater responsibility for keeping their neighbourhoods clean. However, sustained progress will require more than public awareness campaigns. Reliable waste collection, accessible recycling facilities and consistent enforcement of sanitation regulations will also be necessary. Further information on the communities involved and the programme’s targets would help establish the scale of its impact.
Government highlights creative industry opportunities
The creative industry was another area of focus when Hamzat represented the governor at the opening of Euphoria360 Hub in Oregun on October 5.
During the engagement, the government highlighted its stated commitment to supporting the sector through skills development, training and infrastructure. With creative businesses offering opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship, such initiatives could contribute to the state’s economic activities. However, their impact will be clearer when information becomes available on the number of people trained, jobs created and businesses supported.
Audit Service Commission announces promotion briefing
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Audit Service Commission announced a virtual briefing for auditors eligible for the 2027 promotion exercise.
The announcement was part of preparations for the forthcoming promotion process and was not confirmation that the briefing had already taken place. Nevertheless, it highlights the administrative work involved in managing career progression within the state’s public service. Clear communication and transparent promotion procedures remain important to ensuring that eligible officers understand the process and their responsibilities.
COWLSO prepares for 26th National Women’s Conference
Women’s empowerment also featured in the week’s activities as First Lady Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu announced preparations for the 26th National Women’s Conference organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO).
The conference is scheduled for October 26 to 28 at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, under the theme “Anchored for Purpose, Be the Blueprint.” Planned activities include keynote presentations, networking sessions, an awareness walk and a gala event.
Although the conference will take place later in the month, the announcement, made at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa on October 8, highlighted the organisers’ plans to promote discussions on women’s leadership, family welfare and community development.
