The Lagos State government has begun consultations on its 2026 budget, urging residents to actively participate in setting the state’s fiscal priorities.
At the opening session of the Budget Consultative Forum for the Ikeja Division, held at the Multipurpose Hall of Radio Lagos, Agidingbi, the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Ope George, said the forum was intended to give citizens a voice in the budgeting process and provide updates on the 2025 budget’s progress.
“This is the first of our visits into the divisions of the state. We are here to hear from our people what they want to see in the 2026 budget. It also gives us an opportunity to report back on what they requested in 2025 and to give a scorecard of what has been achieved,” he said.
George revealed that the state has achieved over 80 percent budget performance so far in 2025, in both revenue collection and spending.
According to him, Lagos is confident it will meet its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target for the year.
“We are building on the gains of 2025. Our IGR is growing and as of August–September, we have hit about 80 per cent of our target. Last year, we met our IGR target and we are confident that 2025 will follow the same path,” he added.
The Permanent Secretary noted that the state is making substantial investments in infrastructure while prioritising social protection, healthcare, education, and agriculture.
He highlighted plans to expand the state’s agribusiness initiative, Lagos Produce, to strengthen food security.
Also addressing the forum, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, expressed concern over the increasing drug abuse among Lagos youth.
Calling it a “pandemic,” Ogunlende said the ministry has created a special department under the Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse (LASCADA) programme to address the issue.
“At the moment, our rehabilitation centres are full. Drug abuse is something we see on our streets and in our homes. At least 35 per cent of our youths are dependent on substances,” he stated.
He added that the state is collaborating with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), private organisations, and civil society groups to provide advocacy, rehabilitation, and rescue services, urging communities to take an active role in combating drug abuse.
The consultative forum, running from September 9 to 16, 2025, will take place across the state’s divisions, involving traditional rulers, professional bodies, civil society organisations, trade groups, persons with disabilities, and youth representatives.
