By Olakunle Oke
Newly elected local government chairmen in Lagos State have been challenged to surpass the accomplishments of their predecessors, as highlighted during the recent “Ask Lagos” interactive forum.
Stakeholders emphasised the need for the incoming leaders to build on the robust foundation laid by past administrations, pushing for enhanced grassroots governance and community development.
Hon. Bolaji Kayode-Roberts, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, outlined key expectations for the new chairmen, including performance benchmarking, integrity, accountability, and stronger citizen engagement. He revealed that plans are underway for an onboarding seminar designed to instil ethical governance, value-driven service, and collaboration with traditional rulers and community leaders. He cited past innovations such as fire stations, modern maternity centres, and community-run radio stations as benchmarks for the new administration to surpass under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s “Team Plus” agenda.
The forum showcased the transformative impact of local governance, with Hon. Gbenga Omotoso, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, praising outgoing chairmen for turning previously neglected spaces—such as refuse dumps—into modern housing estates through public-private partnerships. Recent projects commissioned by Governor Sanwo-Olu, including multi-purpose halls, primary schools, health centres, road networks, and fire stations, were highlighted as evidence of steady progress at the local level.
Citizens raised concerns about expanding youth development and sporting infrastructure, prompting Kayode-Roberts to reference initiatives like the Maracana Mini-Stadium and other ongoing projects as proof of commitment to recreation. He assured residents that more such developments are in the pipeline.
The strong partnership between local councils and traditional rulers was also noted, with collaborative efforts such as palace construction fostering unified governance.
Residents further called for increased focus on social welfare, particularly for the underprivileged, urging direct engagement, youth capacity-building, cultural heritage promotion, and grassroots emergency response systems. With substantial autonomy and funding, Lagos local governments are well-positioned to lead in inclusive development.
Commissioners promised ongoing oversight, regular feedback sessions, and transparent governance expressing confidence that Lagos’ local councils could rival entire states in performance within a decade.
