In a move aimed at fast-tracking the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Lagos State government has begun what it called Voluntary Local Review (VLR) – a peer of the implementation of the SDG programmes in the state.
The VLR SDGs peer review initiative is expected to empower the state to provide objective insights and constructive feedback mechanisms to close gaps and provide potential opportunities for achieving the SDGs.
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The VLR initiative puts the state in a position to lead the way in its drive towards achieving the global agenda on SDGs. It also provides a platform to review progress, share experiences, and learn from the local communities and development partners.
“The VLR has become a catalyst for change, inspiring innovative solutions and driving transformative action,” Oreoluwa Finnih, the special adviser to the state governor on SDGs, said at the maiden VLR validation workshop for SDGs on Tuesday.
According to her, Lagos has actively promoted localisation of the SDGs by being the first state in Nigeria to establish the office of SDGs as a cabinet office and incorporating the framework into its development plans.
“It is imperative at this juncture to note that since the adoption of the SDGs in 2015, Lagos has ambitiously moved to pursue this transformative global agenda with the vigour it deserves,” Finnih said.
According to her, the VLR validation workshop held a profound significance for the future of Lagos and the country at large.
“This highly anticipated workshop marks a pivotal moment in our collective journey toward achieving the global goals as well as co-creating an inclusive, just, and prosperous future for all residents of Lagos State,” Finnih said.
She said that the state recognised that the VLR was not an end in itself but a process by which the government assesses its progress and shortcomings in implementing the SDGs through an inclusive process that involves all relevant actors.
Oladotun Olakanle, executive chairman, Onigbongbo LCDA, said that the review would give the state government and the LCDAs the opportunity to review available data, and statistics to project for future development and how it will affect the people.
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“If we decide to eradicate poverty, and make life meaningful to the people; there is a need for you to constantly review what you’re working on. This helps you to project for future advancements,” he said.
