Lagos Unveils Strategic Communication Document To Deepen Citizens’ Engagement

The Lagos State government unveiled a three-year Strategic Plan and Communication Strategy (2025-2027) document on Monday, stating that it will help deepen citizens’ participation in governance.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen, who unveiled the documents in his office, explained that the plan is to strengthen the bond between government and the people through effective communication of government activities to the citizens, thereby allowing them to take active participation in governance.

Afolabi noted that Lagos, being a state with a diverse population, needs people to participate actively in government policies that can shape their future.

He further stated that the documents will enhance public trust and expand opportunities for meaningful engagement between the government and the public.

“The Strategic plan and Communication Strategy align deeply with the THEMES+ Agenda of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration. The plan advances this agenda by fostering transparent communication, enhancing collaboration between the executive and legislature, and ensuring that stakeholders, both formal and informal, are fully engaged in the decision-making process.

“Ultimately, it serves as the foundation for meaningful engagement. At the core of this plan is the belief that public participation should become a culture, rather than an event. A government that values its people must create continuous avenues for citizens to express themselves, offer opinions, and contribute solutions,” Afolabi said.

He added that some of the strategies the Office plans to use to achieve its objectives include strategic dialogues, structured town hall formats, digital feedback platforms, advisory mechanisms and more targeted civic education initiatives.

The Special Adviser further said that the CitizensGate platform created by the Lagos State government, where Lagosians can communicate with the government on issues, is ‘one of the ways ‘we are building an environment where residents can engage the government without barriers.’

The Permanent Secretary, Office of Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement, Engr Solabomi Shasore said that traditional rulers, social media influencers, media practitioners, civil society organisations, community development associations, and movie directors are among the stakeholders who will drive the implementation of the strategy.

“Every citizen wants the government to communicate with them. The plan outlines everything we need to do. We want the people to understand how the government operates in Nigeria; therefore, your expertise is crucial in amplifying our message. Our mandate is to ensure citizens are well engaged,” she said.