Lagos Targets Infrastructure, Social Welfare in 2026 Budget

By Adedapo Adesanya

Lagos State Government has commenced its consultative forum for the 2026 budget cycle, with a focus on infrastructure and social welfare.

The forum, which has been an annual exercise, aligns with a commitment to deepen citizen engagement and consolidate on achievements from previous fiscal years.

The event is a critical part of the budget cycle, as it provides a platform for residents to make contributions that guide how public resources are allocated to address community needs, drive growth, improve service delivery, and make Lagos a more livable and inclusive State.

Speaking at the first leg of the meeting in the Ikeja division on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mr Ope George, reiterated the significance of the yearly exercise designed to give Lagosians a platform to contribute to the state’s budget.

“Every year, we go around all the IBILE divisions to meet our people, hear from them, and understand what they want in the budget. This forum also allows us to report back on the promises of the previous budget and give a scorecard of projects executed,” Mr George said.

He noted that over 80 per cent of the 2025 budget performance had been achieved in terms of both revenue and expenditure, expressing optimism that the state would also meet its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) targets for the year.

“We are hitting 80 per cent of our IGR target as of September, and we are confident we will close the year strong,” he said. “For the 2026 budget, our focus will remain on infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, and social protection, while building on what has already been achieved.”

On her part, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Mrs Olayinka Ojo, expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their continuous participation in the forum.

Mrs Ojo emphasized that the forum embodies the inclusivity of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration, guided by the principle that No One Must Be Left Behind irrespective of age, gender, or social standing.

She encouraged residents of Lagos to continue fulfilling their civic obligations, particularly the prompt payment of taxes, which remain vital for delivering equitable and sustainable development across the state.

The consultative forum attended by stakeholders, including traditional rulers and community leaders, will continue across all divisions of the state as Lagos seeks to shape a realistic and inclusive 2026 budget.