Lagos Unveils Strategic Plan to Deepen Citizens’ Engagement in Governance

The Lagos State Government has unveiled its three-year Strategic Plan and Communication Strategy (2025–2027) aimed at deepening Lagosians’ participation in governance.

The documents, launched by the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement (OPL&CE) in Lagos, are designed to strengthen public trust and improve communication between government and residents, ensuring citizens take an active role in shaping policies that affect their lives.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Abiodun, at the unveiling in Ikeja, said Lagos, being a diverse and dynamic state, required intentional structures that allow citizens to engage meaningfully with government decisions.

He explained that the strategic plan aligns with the THEMES+ Agenda of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, as it promotes transparency, encourages collaboration between the executive and legislature, and expands opportunities for public participation in decision-making processes..

 Abiodun outlined several engagement tools proposed under the plan, including structured town halls, strategic dialogues, digital feedback platforms, advisory mechanisms and targeted civic education initiatives. He added that the CitizensGate platform remains a key channel for residents to communicate with government without barriers.

“Public participation must become a culture rather than an occasional event. A responsible government must create continuous avenues for citizens to express themselves, offer opinions and contribute meaningful solutions,” he stated.

“Governance is a collective responsibility that demands transparency from government and active involvement from the people. We urge Lagosians to work with us to build an inclusive system,” he added.

The Permanent Secretary, OPL&CE, Mrs. Sholabomi Shasore, said traditional rulers, civil society groups, media practitioners, social media influencers, community associations and filmmakers would help drive the implementation of the plan. A representative of Yiaga Africa, Cynthia Mbamalu, lauded the initiative, noting that civic engagement remained fundamental to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.