Gov. Ambode, Prof. Utomi speak on low cost of governance to survive current economic crisis

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, and Prof. Pat Utomi, during an event in Lagos themed, ‘Reduction in the cost of governance: Socio- political implications for Nigeria’ both said that the best way to survive the current economic crisis is to reduce the cost of governance.

The governor, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Community and Communications, Mr. Kehinde Bamigbetan, said that in the face of a global economic meltdown currently taking its toll on world development, it was important to ensure that available funds were well utilised.

He said:

“We have reduced the cost of governance and commenced the funding of more projects that will 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 fairness.”

Utomi who is a renowned Political economist said:

“Unfortunately that (reduction in cost of governance) is not happening because the money we can use to ensure better education is being used frivolously.

“Today, we are obsessed with the fact that to be in a political position, you have to have all kinds of trappings, luxury cars of all kinds.”

“If I have my way, we will have a prime minister like we had in 1960; it is the best for Nigeria,” he added.

Punch