Edited By Araba, Olawale Enifenilanfe:
Welcome Speech by Mr Olalekan Hafeez Balogun, Special Adviser to the Governor on Economic Planning and Budget.
Distinguished guests,
It is my distinct pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all participants at the sixth Budget Consultative Forum organized by the administration of Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. This forum is convened as we work towards the formulation of the Year 2025 Budget under the auspices of the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, took place at the Eko FM Multi-Purpose Hall, Ikeja on Wednesday, July 24, 2024.
The primary purpose of this forum is to engage with the diverse divisions of Lagos State, ensuring that the insights and contributions of all stakeholders are genuinely reflected in our budget preparation process. This inclusive approach fosters transparency and accountability, thereby facilitating a budget that resonates with the needs of our citizens. As a resident of Apapa and an indigene of the Epetedo area on Lagos Island, the importance of this forum is particularly significant to me.
Our administration is unwavering in its commitment to the welfare of all residents of Lagos State and to the overall advancement of the region. We are dedicated to completing ongoing projects while implementing essential initiatives aimed at enhancing our infrastructure, thereby creating economic opportunities for every individual. It remains imperative that Lagos continues to affirm its status as a cultural and intellectual hub.
We contend that the essence of democracy is rooted in active citizen engagement with the government. This principle is aptly encapsulated in our state motto, “Ajumose,” which translates to “joint effort.” The expansion of our consultative forums to encompass all five IBILE divisions exemplifies our dedication to empowering citizens to actively participate in the budgetary process and to hold the government accountable.
In alignment with our philosophy of “All-Inclusive Governance” and the principle that “No One Must Be Left Behind,” we shall prioritize policies that cater to the diverse needs of all demographic groups, regardless of social status, gender, or age. This guiding tenet underscores our pledge to thorough consultation and meticulous decision-making, particularly in light of various economic considerations.
This forum offers a valuable opportunity for us to exchange ideas and collaborate towards the realization of a “Greater Lagos.” It is essential that the interests of our citizens are accurately represented in the forthcoming budget and that these interests align with the available resources. Today’s attendees include traditional rulers, community leaders, representatives from the organized private sector, professionals, non-governmental organizations, youth associations, and civil society. Your active participation in this budgetary process is crucial.
The success of our administration is contingent upon collective efforts. We remain committed to enhancing our tax and non-tax revenue mechanisms to meet citizen expectations and improve the overall quality of service delivery from government agencies. I encourage all participants to fulfill their civic responsibilities by complying with tax obligations, adhering to traffic regulations, promoting environmental sustainability, and maintaining heightened security awareness.
In conclusion, we look forward to receiving proposals from each division that are beneficial to the populace and critical for enhancing the socioeconomic landscape of each division.
On behalf of the Honourable Commissioner, the Acting Permanent Secretary, and the dedicated staff of the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, I extend my warm welcome to all attendees of this inclusive forum and wish us productive deliberations, he said.
Thank you.
Mr. OLALEKAN HAFEEZ BALOGUN
Special Adviser to the Governor
Economic Planning and Budget, Lagos State.
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2024 (c) Edition.
