Yomi Durojaye
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening grassroots governance and enhancing service delivery across Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the state.
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LGSC Holds Summit To Strengthen Grassroots Governance, Sustainable Development In Lagos |
Speaking at the 2025 Local Government Summit organised by the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission (LGSC), with the theme "Strengthening Grassroots Governance and Service Delivery in Local Government and Local Council Development Areas," Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the Commission for the summit, emphasising its role in deepening discussions on local governance.
The Governor, represented by Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described Local Governments and LCDAs as the “bedrock of governance and development,” underscoring their critical function in bridging the gap between government and the people.
He stated that grassroots governance must be people-centred, inclusive, and focused on delivering essential services efficiently. “As the closest tier of government to the people, Local Governments have a unique responsibility to lead in fostering inclusive development, promoting community participation, and delivering critical services effectively,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Mr. Governor highlighted his administration’s efforts through the THEMES Plus Agenda, which prioritises infrastructure development, policy reforms, and capacity building to strengthen local governance. He cited the ongoing project commissioning across various LGAs and LCDAs as proof of the State’s commitment to making life more meaningful for residents.
In his words, “This summit provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on challenges, share best practices, and collectively chart a way forward. I urge all participants to focus on actionable outcomes that will strengthen grassroots governance and instil public confidence in our Local Governments”.
Looking ahead to the upcoming local government elections, Sanwo-Olu emphasised the importance of free, fair, and credible polls, urging all political actors to uphold democratic values. “Our goal is Lagos where every citizen, regardless of their background, has access to quality services and opportunities. We envision a Lagos where grassroots governance is synonymous with transparency, accountability, and inclusivity,” he added.
Also speaking at the Summit, held recently in the Lekki area of the State, Hon. Kamal Bayewu stressed the pivotal role of local councils as the foundation of socio-economic development in Lagos State. He described the summit as a significant platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of innovative ideas aimed at repositioning grassroots governance as the cornerstone of sustainable development.
“With the theme ‘Strengthening Grassroots Governance and Service Delivery in Local Government and Local Council Development Areas’, this summit is not just an event; it is a platform for reflection, dialogue, and actionable strategies to improve service delivery and enhance the overall quality of life for Lagos residents”, the Chairman stated.
Commending the visionary leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, he acknowledged the administration’s unwavering dedication to grassroots development through capacity building, infrastructure projects, and innovative policies that empower local councils.
He also noted the importance of inclusive governance models that ensure no citizen is left behind. “Our goal is to create a Lagos where every resident, regardless of location or status, has access to quality services, equitable development, and a voice in governance,” he said. The Chairman urged participants at the Summit to engage actively in discussions, as the ideas generated at the forum would serve as a roadmap for the future of grassroots governance in Lagos State.
Also, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission (LGSC), Mrs. Abosede George, provided a comprehensive recap of the last summit, highlighting key resolutions and progress made in strengthening grassroots governance.
She noted that previous deliberations had led to significant policy adjustments and strategic interventions aimed at improving service delivery at the local government level. According to her, one of the major outcomes was the adoption of capacity-building programmes for council officials, which have enhanced their efficiency in addressing the needs of the people.
Mrs. George emphasised the importance of periodic engagements such as the Local Government Summit, stating that these gatherings serve as a critical platform for evaluating policies, sharing best practices, and addressing emerging challenges in local administration. The summit is expected to produce actionable strategies that will further enhance governance and service delivery across Lagos State.
One of the facilitators at the event and former Chairman of the LGSC, Alhaji Babatunde Rotinwa outlined a comprehensive approach to improving governance and service delivery at the grassroots level in his presentation, emphasising the need for accountability, innovation, and citizen engagement.
