Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his predecessor in office, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN) have stressed the need for urgent sacrifices to alleviate the current hardship caused by the economic downturn rocking the country.
The duo spoke during the 18th edition of the state Executive and Legislative Parley organized by the office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, with the theme, “Engaging All for an Inclusive Governance; Hands On for a Greater Lagos Rising.”
They emphasized the need for more empowerment programmes to cater for the vulnerable and small businesses in the state, while also calling for relaxation of some taxes and levies being paid by the people
Sanwo-Olu said, “This parley stands as one of the enduring and significant legacies of our leader and the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. It is a platform that has played a significant role in promoting mutual understanding and a harmonious relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government.
‘’ There is no gainsaying that the understanding and mutual respect brought about by this parley has been a key driver of the milestone achievements that successive administrations in the state have recorded.
“It is also important to state that this forum has also provided the opportunity for serving members of the executive and legislature to benefit from the knowledge, experience and wisdom of our leaders who are our forebears in public service and governance.’’
The keynote Speaker at the parley Mr. Babatunde Fashola said, “If you look around the world, democracy is increasingly dysfunctional. People are asking, is it what we signed off for? Interaction like this is to make it work. It is to build collaboration. It also provided a forum for the party to know what its Government is doing.”
Earlier, the Special Adviser on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Tajudeen recalled, “For nearly two decades, the Executive and Legislative Parley has stood as a cornerstone among the numerous programs of the Lagos State government. Serving as a collaborative platform for the executive, legislative, and Party elite, this Parley fosters rapid sustainable development for our cherished state of Excellence.
“The synergy between the executive and legislature stands as a pivotal force behind Lagos’s monumental achievements, and the purpose of this Parley is to further strengthen that bond,” he said.
