The Lagos State government has reaffirmed its dedication to the well-being of its residents as the preparation for the 2025 budget process commences. The Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr. Ope George, made this clear during a media chat regarding the Y2025 Budget preparation process. He encouraged residents to actively participate in the process by attending and contributing meaningfully at the scheduled venues, with the option of virtual attendance also available to ensure inclusivity.
George emphasized the significance of citizen engagement in the budget process, noting that numerous government programs originate from yearly consultation forums. He stated, “We want Lagosians to know that this is their process, and we want them to be involved. They can register for physical attendance in various areas or log on online and participate by sending an email to budget@lagosstate.gov.ng to indicate their interest.”
The Commissioner outlined the schedule for the budget preparation process, starting on Tuesday at Eko Club in the Lagos division, followed by sessions in Ikeja, Ikorodu, Epe, and Badagry. He explained that the budget preparation process involves planning three years ahead, reviewing past performance, and setting expectations for the next two to three years, making it a continuous process.
Regarding the balance between infrastructural projects and citizens’ well-being, George stressed that it is crucial to push for significant infrastructure projects while also focusing on social protection, especially in the current economic situation, to ensure the well-being of the people.
He said, “We are going through our mid-year review, and we also conduct quarterly reviews. In the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, we monitor month-to-month progress. In terms of revenues, we are doing well, raising our revenues and completing projects. Our budget prioritises capital expenditure, which helps reduce the cost of governance. Overall, as a state, we have done well, but there is always room for improvement. We aim to increase our revenues, both from internal and other sources”.
On ongoing projects and those nearing completion, he averred that the government is close to 85-86 percent completion on the Opebi-Mende-Ojota link bridge, which will significantly improve the Toyin Street, Allen-Opebi area. The Ikeja urban regeneration programme is also close to 85 percent completed. The Blue Line is being extended, and the Red Line is progressing in phases.
“Recently, the Governor launched 15 48-seater capacity ferries, all built locally in Lagos, creating job opportunities. The Ounje Eko (food bank) initiative was highly successful, Mr. Governor also recently cleared all pension backlogs, ensuring that we are fully up-to-date, which was a significant concern for pensioners during previous forums”, he added,