Lagos spent over ₦700m to empower 2,344 vulnerable residents in 2024 – S.A
By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Government on Wednesday has allocated over ₦700 million in 2024 to support 2,344 vulnerable residents across the state in 2024.
Dr. Afolabi Tajudeen, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement, made the disclosure on Wednesday during a Strategic Breakfast Media Chat at Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island.
He explained that the funds were directed towards alleviating the economic burdens faced by the most vulnerable citizens of Lagos, including the elderly, low-income earners, persons living with disabilities, indigent students, and small-scale business owners.
“This is a comprehensive and impactful social welfare programme under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, aimed at addressing the financial and social challenges faced by vulnerable residents in Lagos.
“In the face of the ongoing economic difficulties many Nigerians are facing, this initiative continues to alleviate poverty and enhance the quality of life for those in need,” Tajudeen said.
Tajudeen highlighted that the initiative, part of the government’s “Sanwo-Olu Listens” programme, was aligned with the THEMES+ agenda, which prioritises social inclusion, resilience, and sustainable governance.
He noted that the programme’s beneficiaries include individuals from marginalized groups who often face significant challenges in accessing basic services.
Speaking at the event, Tajudeen also emphasised the importance of transparency and grassroots engagement, particularly through initiatives such as the Lagos CitizensGate mobile application.
This platform, he said, allows residents to directly communicate with the government, submit complaints, make inquiries, and stay updated on government actions.
The Special Adviser also spoke on other key efforts of the state government, including quarterly community development programmes and the 18th Executive/Legislative Parley, which aims to foster stronger collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government.
“Our administration is committed to easing the burden of the fuel subsidy removal on all Lagosians,” Tajudeen said, reiterating the government’s pledge to provide ongoing support for residents amidst the economic challenges confronting the nation.
Dr. Kadri Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State, who also spoke at the event, called for a shift in public discourse towards more development-focused narratives.
He stressed that the state’s achievements, particularly in infrastructural development, are often underreported, noting that Lagos currently has 198 road projects in progress.
“We must change the conversation and focus on what truly matters—the future of Lagos and Nigeria,” Hamzat said. “For instance, last year, seven million Lagosians visited our general hospitals, yet there is little focus on the state’s achievements in healthcare and infrastructure.”
He also highlighted existential threats facing Lagos, such as rising water levels, extreme rainfall, and heat, urging the media to give more attention to these pressing challenges.
Hamzat called for a concerted effort to push for innovative solutions to the country’s economic struggles, particularly in light of President Bola Tinubu’s vision to build a trillion-dollar economy.
Hamzat emphasized the need for innovative solutions to drive economic growth and sustainability.
“We must aspire to do things differently to achieve the vision of a trillion-dollar economy,” he added.
Hamzat also praised the Lagos CitizensGate 2.0 platform as a game-changer for public participation in governance, allowing residents to directly communicate their concerns to the government.
“As a government, we are committed to listening to our people,” Hamzat concluded. “This platform enables us to resolve issues promptly and efficiently.”
In his closing remarks, Hamzat urged media stakeholders to focus on positive narratives that foster national unity and showcase Nigeria’s potential on the global stage.
He called for a shift in the conversation to highlight the country’s achievements and progress, especially in sectors like education and healthcare, where Nigerians excel internationally.
“Let us promote a more positive image of Lagos and Nigeria, focusing on the real issues that matter for progress and unity,” Hamzat said.
