The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive governance and citizen-centred development with the rollout of its strategic engagement programme, Citizens’ Gate 2.0. The initiative is designed to strengthen the role of the political class, youth organisations and traditional institutions in policy communication and community ownership of government programmes.
Speaking on the initiative, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement (OPL&CE), Engr. (Ms) Sholabomi Mosunmola Shashore, described the political class as a vital bridge between government and the people, noting that the engagement was aimed at deepening public trust in governance and enhancing citizens’ understanding of state policies and projects.
“In recognition of the critical role of the political class, youth bodies and traditional institutions in shaping public perception and strengthening citizens’ trust in government, Lagos State is prioritising structured and strategic engagement with stakeholders,” Shashore stated. “Our objective is to ensure that government policies are not only well articulated but also clearly understood and embraced by the people they are meant to serve.”
She explained that the programme focuses on enhancing the capacity of politically conscious stakeholders to communicate government initiatives effectively, while promoting inclusive participation in policymaking across communities. According to her, such engagement would also foster a stronger sense of ownership of state projects, thereby improving sustainability and long-term impact at the grassroots level.
“The political class holds immense influence in mobilising communities and shaping narratives,” Shashore added. “By reinforcing their role in policy understanding and public communication, we are strengthening the link between government intentions and citizens’ expectations, which is essential for responsive and accountable governance.”
Reacting to the development, the Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos Chapter, Comrade Ibrahim Adigun, commended the state government for recognising the strategic importance of political leaders and youth-driven platforms in advancing inclusive governance. He said the engagement would further align grassroots leadership with the state’s development agenda.
“This initiative underscores the importance of dialogue and partnership in governance,” Adigun said. “When political leaders and stakeholders are properly engaged, they become effective ambassadors of government policies within their communities, ensuring that programmes are better understood and supported by the people.”
Adigun stressed that youth organisations and community-based leaders play a critical role in translating government policies into tangible community action. He noted that the programme would strengthen government-citizen relations by promoting transparency, mutual trust and shared responsibility for development outcomes.
“This engagement will empower political stakeholders to drive inclusive policy participation and community ownership of projects,” he added. “It is a step in the right direction towards building a governance culture where citizens see government initiatives as collective efforts rather than distant interventions.”
Officials of OPL&CE said participants’ presence and contributions would be instrumental in strengthening Lagos State’s vision of people-oriented governance anchored on robust grassroots collaboration.
