The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to participatory governance, pledging closer collaboration with media practitioners to enhance transparency, accountability, and inclusive development across the state.
This assurance was given by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Afolabi Tajudeen, while delivering the keynote address at a one-day breakfast roundtable themed “Where Headlines Begin.” The event brought together journalists, media executives, and public communication experts to deliberate on the evolving role of the press in democratic governance.
Dr. Tajudeen said the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Obafemi Kadri Hamzat, regarded the media as indispensable partners in governance, noting that effective leadership thrives on accurate information, constructive criticism, and active citizen participation.
According to him, the media plays a strategic role in shaping public opinion and ensuring that government policies and programmes are properly communicated to the people. He stressed that participatory governance could only be achieved when citizens are well informed and given platforms to engage with government through credible and professional journalism.
The Special Adviser explained that the state government was committed to strengthening its engagement with media organisations to promote fact-based reporting and counter misinformation that could undermine public trust. He added that a robust partnership with the media would also help amplify citizens’ voices and improve feedback mechanisms between the government and the governed.
Dr. Tajudeen further highlighted that Lagos State remained open to dialogue with media stakeholders, emphasising that transparency and openness were core values of the Sanwo-Olu administration. He urged journalists to continue upholding ethical standards while playing their watchdog role in society.
Participants at the roundtable described the engagement as timely, noting that deeper cooperation between government and the media would foster better understanding of public policies and encourage civic responsibility among residents.
The event ended with a call for sustained interaction between government institutions and the media, with both sides agreeing that stronger collaboration would advance democratic values and strengthen governance outcomes in Lagos State.
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