Ambode, Utomi hail reduction of cost of governance

 His excellency governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode

Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, and renowned political economist, Professor Pat Utomi, have said that the quest to revive the nation’s economy for rapid development may be a mirage if the various levels of government in the country fail to embrace reduction in the cost of governing the country.

The duo who stated this at the weekend while speaking at the Press Week Lecture and Awards ceremony organised by members of the Lagos Governor’s Office Correspondents (LAGOCO) held in Lagos, argued that in the face of global economic slowdown currently taking its toll on world development, it is imperative to ensure that available funds are well utilized.

Ambode at the lecture with the theme: “Reduction In The Cost Of Governance, Socio-political Implications For Nigeria”, said the theme is instructive of the path his administration has travelled in the last five months.

The governor represented by the special adviser on Community and Communications, Mr. Kehinde Bamigbetan said, “We have reduced the cost of governance and have commenced funding more projects that would enhance the quality of lives and empower our people.
“As members of the noble profession of Journalism responsible for holding the government accountable to the people, I urge you to discharge this very important role with all sense of fairness and responsibility.

Speaking in the same vein, Professor Pat Utomi, a former presidential candidate said it is important to reduce cost of governance because it translates to savings which can be used to create values and wealth.

 Professor Pat Utomi

 Utomi said, “Unfortunately that is not happening, because the money we can use to ensure better education, better healthcare is used more frivolously in the process of government”.
“So the essence of the Leviathan which is government is essentially to harness our various talents, our various resources so that we can create a better life for all.

                                                                                              Edited by Kunle Adio.........