Governor Sanwo-Olu Opens Retreat For 377 Councillors In Lekki

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu officially opened the Onboarding and Retreat Programme for all 377 Councillors in Lagos State on Friday, January 16, 2026. The Governor charged the grassroots lawmakers to perform their oversight duties with courage and to represent their constituents with a deep sense of empathy. He emphasized that as the closest representatives to the people, their ability to craft purposeful laws is essential for the stability and growth of the state.

The retreat, held at Novotel Hotels in Lekki, served as a comprehensive capacity-building platform for the local legislators. Governor Sanwo-Olu reminded the attendees that their offices are not just positions of authority but platforms for dedicated service at the ward level. He noted that effective legislation at the local government level is the bedrock of good governance, as it directly impacts the daily lives of millions of Lagosians.

In attendance were several high-ranking officials and resource persons, including the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, and the Chairman of Conference 57, Engr. Sesan Olowa. The diversity of the attendees highlighted the state's effort to harmonize governance across all 377 wards. The programme focused on policy engagement, legislative orientation, and the technicalities of modern local administration to ensure all councillors are aligned with the state's broader goals.

​Key agencies like the Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau (LASRAB) and the Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) also participated to brief the councillors on data management and resident documentation. The Governor stressed that a data-driven approach is necessary for equitable distribution of resources at the grassroots. By understanding the demographics of their wards, councillors can better advocate for the specific needs of their communities during budget cycles.

The retreat marks a significant step in the administration’s effort to strengthen the legislative arm of local government. As the councillors return to their respective wards, they are expected to apply the skills and ethical guidelines discussed during the sessions. Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded by reiterating that his administration will continue to support the local councils to ensure that the "Greater Lagos" vision is felt at every doorstep across the state.