Funso Doherty, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer for the upcoming 2027 Lagos State gubernatorial race, has promised to overhaul public education and deliver 150,000 low-cost homes if elected to office.
Speaking on Sunday during the 2026 Lagos governorship debate organized by the Nigeria Debate Consortium, Doherty presented a strategic vision focused on human capital development and essential infrastructure upgrades.
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Doherty argued that real economic advancement begins when citizens have unhindered access to opportunities and vital public services. He promised that under his leadership, the state would dismantle hidden charges in public schools.
“Our commitment is to deliver truly free education—not just on paper,” Doherty stated. “Students will no longer face exam fees or be forced to produce tax clearance receipts simply to write their assessments.”
To further support young learners, the NDC candidate announced plans to introduce at least one affordable daily meal across public schools. He added that his administration would also prioritize healthcare reforms, public transportation improvements, and dedicated support for small businesses.
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Addressing the state’s housing deficit, Doherty outlined a strategy to construct 150,000 affordable residential units through structured financing, state-backed guarantees, and public-private partnerships designed to make homeownership feasible for everyday residents.
Doherty also criticized the state’s governance track record, arguing that Lagos continues to operate far below its potential despite generating substantial revenue. He contended that citizens bear an unfair tax burden without receiving adequate public infrastructure in return.
“Nearly 90 percent of internally generated revenue comes directly from taxes paid by regular citizens,” Doherty said, noting that while residents fulfill their civic duties, the government has repeatedly fallen short. He added that the ruling political bloc has held power for 27 years without resolving long-standing deficits in electricity, clean water, healthcare, and education.
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The candidate pointed to his 30 years of private-sector experience in financial management and executive leadership as key qualifications for modernizing the state’s administration.
Having previously contested the governorship in 2023, Doherty is launching his 2027 campaign alongside running mate Tolani Animashaun. Their platform is anchored on the NDC manifesto, Ọ̀nà Tuntun (The New Way), which outlines 34 detailed policy commitments across six core areas: healthcare, education and opportunity, affordable housing, enterprise and jobs, environmental sustainability, and accountable governance.
