LASG takes political social inclusion sensitisation engagement to Aiyetobi community
As part of its ongoing efforts to foster inclusive governance and civic responsibility, the Office of Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement has organised a one-day Political and Social Inclusion Sensitisation and Engagement Programme. The event was recently held at Aiyetobi Community Agbado, Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area in Ipaja, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen, represented by the Director, Citizens Engagement Department, Dr. Babatunde Omotayo, said that the event is a strategic move and a deliberate institutional effort by the Lagos State Government to bring governance closer to the people and also empower residents to become active participants in the governance structure.
He added that in a democracy, citizens are not just beneficiaries of public policy, but co-creators; hence, their valuable inputs and participation are essential to sustainable development.
He, therefore, urged the participants to listen, get informed and share their concerns and propose solutions towards making Lagos a model of inclusive governance, which is a collective responsibility shared between the government and the governed.
One of the participants, Mrs. Akinboyewa Bolarinwa, while appreciating the Lagos State Government, noted that initiatives such as this will help residents access government policies and could help residents avoid preventable hardships, especially in times of crisis. She added that with the new information gained, she will take advantage of the initiatives.
Another participant, Mrs. Ayobola Bakare, while praising the programme’s impact, pledged to engage more actively with government schemes going forward, noting that her previous challenges had been worsened by a lack of access to information that would have been beneficial.
Lending his voice, another participant, Mr. Taiwo Oladimeji revealed that programmes such as this will renew the hopes and trust of Lagos residents in the people in government.
In his words, “I am a Point of Sale (POS) operator and a person living with a spinal cord disability. I have never heard of any financial assistance programme until today, and it has given me new hope. I truly appreciate the Lagos State Government for supporting people like us”.
A key feature of the programme was the on-the-spot registration for two major government programmes by staff of the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASSRA) and the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA).
