By Odegbile Abisola Victoria
The Gazelle News held its Annual Public Lecture on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, where stakeholders from different sectors came together to emphasize the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in driving effective grassroots governance.
The event attracted government officials, policymakers, media practitioners, business leaders and other stakeholders committed to promoting sustainable development at the grassroots level.
The Publisher of The Gazelle News Mr Musbau Ademola Rasak, in his welcome address, said the annual lecture was organized to encourage meaningful conversations around issues affecting governance at the grassroots. He noted that the theme of this year’s lecture reflects the need for stronger collaboration between government and the private sector in addressing challenges facing local communities.
Speaking at the event, the keynote speaker, Chief Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, described grassroots governance as the foundation of national development. He noted that meaningful progress can only be achieved when government, the private sector and local communities work together towards a common goal.
Dare explained that Public-Private Partnerships have played a significant role in improving infrastructure, encouraging innovation and enhancing service delivery in different sectors. However, he pointed out that challenges such as weak institutional capacity, policy inconsistency, lack of transparency and inadequate community involvement continue to hinder the full benefits of these partnerships.
He also stated that “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” urging stakeholders to embrace collaboration as the key to sustainable development.
A goodwill message delivered on behalf of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat by his representative Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, also highlighted the importance of partnerships in achieving inclusive development and improving the quality of governance at the local level.
The event also featured the presentation of awards to individuals who have distinguished themselves in public service, governance, business and the media, ranging from Governor of Bauchi State his excellency Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed awarded The Governor Of The Year and so on. The recipients were recognized for their outstanding contributions to national development and leadership.
The lecture ended with a renewed call for sustained collaboration among government, private organizations and citizens to build stronger institutions and promote effective grassroots governance across Nigeria.(NAN).
