The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Idiat Oluranti Adebule has stated that for any government to enjoy acceptability, effective and prompt information must be made available to the people.
Adebule made the assertion during the annual lecture and book launch of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos Information Chapel with the theme “All Inclusive Government: Lagos State in Perspective”.
The Deputy Governor, who was represented by the Tutor General/Permanent Secretary, Education District 1, Dr. Yinka Ayandele, therefore commended information managers in the State for their professionalism in ensuring accurate dissemination of the policies and programmes of the government to the citizenry.
She reiterated the current administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of the residents through infrastructure provision and renewal and urged the information managers to maintain the practice of reporting government activities promptly.
In his remarks at the occasion, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, Commissioner for Information and Strategy, stressed the need to encourage intellectually motivated and thought-provoking gatherings, noting that such events are of utmost importance to any nation that is desirous of greatness.
Represented by the Director of Public Affairs, Mrs. `Toro Oladapo, the Commissioner commended the Lagos Information Chapel of NUJ for organizing the event saying: “to me this is a showcase of communication for development because, in reality, the success of a government is not felt except through strategic communication which is where members of NUJ deserve all commendation”.
In his lecture, the Vice Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Professor Olanrewaju Fagbohun stated that the people have the right to participate actively in governance for meaningful development.
“All people including the poor, women, ethnic and religious minorities, indigenous people and other disadvantaged groups have the right to participate meaningfully in governance processes and also influence decisions that affected them,” he said.
He opined that: “Ambode’s model of inclusive governance is an imperative if we are to meet the challenges of inequalities that undermine economic growth and strain the relationship between governance and the citizens”.
Fagbohun observed that the current practice where the current administration regularly engages citizens in governance has given rise to the legitimacy of the State government and enhanced effective service delivery by public servants.
The book “Ambode: Gains of all Inclusive Government” was unveiled by Senator Ganiyu Solomon who recommended the book to all lovers of democracy and good governance.
Discussants at the event included Professor Sophie Oluwole, Chairman Centre for African Culture and Development, Dr. Bolu Folayan of the University of Lagos and Mr. Kehinde Joseph, Special Adviser to the Governor on Civic Engagement.
