Lagos showcases progress on $500m world bank HOPE programme
By Imisioluwa Afunmiso, Lagos
The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in governance, saying it is improving how it manages public funds and services through the $500 million World Bank-supported Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) Programme.
The HOPE Programme, a $500 million World Bank-assisted facility extended to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, focuses on improving healthcare, education, and governance.
Speaking at a public sensitisation and presentation, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu expressed satisfaction with the records so far saying the state is now focusing more on results and impact, rather than just spending money, to ensure better services for residents.
The Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Ope George, added that the programme has helped make government finances more transparent and accountable saying the programme has deepened fiscal transparency and accountability, while strengthening public financial management systems in the state.
In the health sector, the Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, highlighted achievements under the HOPE-PHC component, noting that the government remains committed to improving primary healthcare through sustained investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and service delivery saying the goal is to ensure accessible, quality, and resilient healthcare services for all residents.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Tolani Alli-Balogun, said the HOPE-EDU initiative is aimed at delivering inclusive and high-quality basic education emphasizing the state’s focus on strengthening education systems, empowering teachers, and equipping students with the tools needed for academic success.
A development partner, Celine Lafoucriere, commended Lagos State for its performance under the programme, describing it as a benchmark for other states.
The event also featured the unveiling of core textbooks for students, alongside the distribution of school bags to pupils who attended in large numbers.