Funso Doherty, the governorship candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Lagos State, has made bold commitments to provide free education and healthcare if elected in the upcoming 2027 elections. Speaking at a town hall meeting organized by The Platform, a thought leadership initiative of The Covenant Nation, Doherty outlined his vision for the state, emphasizing the importance of accessible education and healthcare within his first 100 days in office.

Doherty's plans include making education entirely free for all public school students, which would cover not only tuition but also books and examination fees. Additionally, he pledged to ensure that every child in public schools receives one nutritious meal each day. He stated, "We will also provide a programme by which kids who are in public schools are transported free to school if they need it."

Highlighting the significance of education, Doherty remarked that no child should be denied access to learning opportunities. He expressed his belief that children are the future of the state and must be nurtured accordingly. "The children, given our demographics, are the hope of the future and will be the time bomb of the future," he said.

In addition to his education initiatives, Doherty also promised to implement a comprehensive healthcare plan that would provide free healthcare services, particularly focusing on maternal and child health. He emphasized that his administration would prioritize the health and well-being of Lagos residents as part of a broader strategy to enhance the quality of life in the state.

When addressing the pressing issue of housing, Doherty introduced what he described as a "quantum approach" to housing development. Rather than constructing small housing units, he proposed a more ambitious plan to deliver approximately 150,000 housing units within his first term. He noted that the current housing supply has not kept pace with demand, which has contributed to the ongoing housing crisis in Lagos.

Doherty's pledges reflect a commitment to addressing some of the most critical challenges facing Lagos State. As the election approaches, his proposals are likely to resonate with voters seeking significant improvements in education, healthcare, and housing. The NDC candidate's ambitious plans aim to position him as a strong contender in the 2027 governorship race, as he seeks to garner support from the electorate by addressing their most pressing needs.