As the chairmanship election approaches in Lagos State, stakeholders from the Lagos Island Local Government Area have renewed calls for reform, accountability and visionary leadership, seeking a departure from the status quo.
Former Lagos State Youth Ambassador, Qudus A. Shodunke in a statement challenged stakeholders to view the coming election not merely as a political ritual, but as a defining moment for one of Nigeria’s most historic and culturally significant communities.
With its legacy as a hub of commerce and tradition, Shodunke said, Lagos Island must now reinvent itself to meet 21st-century realities.
While acknowledging the contributions of past leaders, traditional institutions and elders in shaping the island’s trajectory, Shodunke emphasized that reverence must be balanced with responsibility.
“Urban decay, environmental pressures, and economic stagnation demand urgent, modern solutions,” he stated. “Progress cannot be deferred indefinitely.”
He noted that the outgoing administration made some incremental gains, but these fell short of residents’ needs, even as infrastructure decay, worsening sanitation, water scarcity and surging rent prices have displaced long-time families and discouraged the youth from investing in their future on the island.
According to Shodunke, these systemic issues are less about a lack of effort and more about a failure to adapt governance to modern complexities. He also called on political parties to transcend traditional caucus politics and focus on merit-based leadership selection.
“This is a time to prioritize demonstrable competence and innovation,” he said, urging party leaders to back candidates capable of building bridges across sectors, integrating technology, and promoting inclusivity.
“The next chairman should not only honour Lagos Island’s legacy but should also be bold enough to lead it into a sustainable future,” he stressed.
Reeling out suggestions of futuristic leadership for the next administration, Shodunke emphasized the need for tech-driven governance to improve service delivery, tourism and investment.
Others include sustainability policies to protect the coastline and revitalize urban infrastructure, support for SMEs and artisans as drivers of local economic growth and youth development programmes focused on digital literacy, skills training and civic participation.
“These are not lofty ideals,” he said. “They are actionable imperatives.”
The former youth ambassador also made a clarion call to young residents, urging them to move from passive observation to active participation.
“To the youth of Lagos Island: this election is your platform to advocate for policies that shape your future,” he said. “Register to vote, question the candidates and hold them accountable.”
He emphasized that the focus must now shift from critique to collaboration: “Lagos Island deserves leadership that is proactive, pragmatic and unwaveringly focused on the collective good,” he concluded. “The choice is yours, but the consequences are shared.”