LASG unveils CitizensGate strategy, seeks CSO, NGO collaboration

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

The Lagos State Government on Thursday engaged members of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) on its plans to bridge the communication gap between citizens and government.

The workshop, organised by the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement (OPLCE), presented participants with the proposed Lagos State 2025–2027 Strategic and Communication Strategy document for review and recommendations.

Convener and Permanent Secretary of OPLCE, Engineer (Mrs) Sholabomi Shasore, said the strategy envisions a Lagos where citizens are more engaged through social media, radio, television, and open consultations. She noted that CSOs and NGOs are key partners in driving its success.

She added that the strategy is built on five pillars: enhancing public trust, promoting inclusive governance, encouraging civic participation, facilitating participatory governance, and strengthening stakeholder relationships.

Participants commended the state for the initiative, saying it would make citizens more involved in governance. Robert Egbe of Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa said the document, if implemented, could help solve some of the state’s pressing challenges.

Reverend Father Raymond Anobiefu, representing a Christian organisation, described the exercise as the first of its kind from OPLCE and a step toward stronger collaboration between government and citizens. Dr. Dosunmu Abidemi of Salamotu Muslim Students Skill Acquisition also expressed satisfaction, saying traditional rulers should be part of the communication network to relay information to their communities.

Debo Adeniran of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) praised the workshop, calling it a “good initiative” that would strengthen public engagement.

Speaking virtually, Consultant to the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) Nigeria, Mr. Muhtair Suleiman, analysed the strategy through a SWOT framework. While warning of risks such as cyberattacks and public distrust, he expressed optimism that implementation would rebuild confidence and address social disorder in Lagos.