The awareness campaign for DevReporting’s upcoming 3-in-1 event has formally kicked off at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka.
The event, scheduled for Thursday, October 29, is expected to spotlight accountability in local governance and drive development journalism.
During a courtesy visit to the University of Lagos (UNILAG) management on Monday, the management of DevReporting, explained that the landmark event will feature the premiere of the investigative documentary titled ‘LG Billions in the Dark’; the formal launch of the Development Reporting Africa Foundation (DRAF), and a strategic fundraising drive.
Led by Managing Editor Christiana Alabi-Akande and Associate Editor Samson Ademola, the DevReporting delegation met with UNILAG officials to introduce the initiative and express gratitude for hosting the event, emphasising the importance of bridging academic communities and civic discourse.
“We are deeply grateful for the university’s support and partnership, aimed at enhancing gown and town collaborations,” Mrs. Alabi-Akande stated during the visit.
About documentary
According to the media organisation, the investigative documentary, ‘LG Billions in the Dark’, focuses on local government administration in Osun State, South-West Nigeria, using it as a case study to highlight nationwide challenges in public finance management, service delivery, and civic accountability.
“Our intention is not only to tell the story of Osun State, but also to stimulate a broader national conversation about the state of local governance and the need for citizens and institutions to demand accountability,” Alabi-Akande explained.
The project is executed in partnership with the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) through its Local Media Sustainability Fund (LMSF), with support from the Royal Norwegian Embassy.
Engaging students and academic communities
Highlighting why UNILAG was chosen as the flagship venue, Mr Ademola noted that local government receives significantly less public scrutiny than state or federal tiers, making student involvement critical.
“Empirical evidence suggests that local governments do not receive as much attention as federal and state governments,” Ademola stated. “Despite being closest to citizens, many remain unaware of local governance activities. Bringing students together will allow them to understand these issues, contribute to the conversation, and advocate for transparency.”
UNILAG management commends development journalism
Welcoming the team, UNILAG Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola commended DevReporting’s focus on constructive, development-driven reporting that addresses challenges while recognising progress.
“As a country, we need to change the narrative and talk about a nation striving to survive and develop, keeping the perspective positive while confronting our challenges,” Prof. Ogunsola remarked. “This is the type of journalism we need as an institution to work with, and we look forward to DRAF and the documentary screening.”
High-level university presence
The vice-chancellor was joined by top members of UNILAG management, including Deputy Vice-Chancellors Prof. Muyiwa Falaiye (Management Services), Prof. Afolabi Lesi (Development Services), and Prof. Mathew Ilori (Academics and Research).
Also present were Registrar Victoria Wickliffe, Bursar Oluwafunmilola Adekunle, University Librarian Prof. Olatokunbo Okiki, Director of Quality Assurance Prof. Olufemi Saibu, Director of Works Olaniyi Ayeye, and Director of Academic Planning Prof. Olufunlayo Bammeke.
