Sanwo-Olu Credits President Tinubu for Early Entry into Governance

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, recently shared insights into his political beginnings, revealing that President Bola Tinubu was instrumental in his entry into government when he was in his thirties. Speaking at the Seyi Tinubu 41st Birthday Colloquium held in Lagos on Monday, Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted President Tinubu's knack for nurturing young talent.

Following the event, the governor further emphasized on X that President Tinubu's strategy of incorporating young professionals into government created significant avenues for leadership growth and development. He stated, "When HE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu brought me into government in my 30s, his cabinet was filled with young professionals willing to challenge ideas and push boundaries. He gave us room to debate and grow. That is how leaders are made."

Governor Sanwo-Olu also urged the youth of Nigeria to actively engage in the democratic process, stressing that crucial decisions impacting their lives are often made at grassroots levels, such as community and ward meetings, and during budget discussions. He encouraged them with the words, "To our young people, I say keep showing up. Decisions that affect your lives are made at community meetings, ward meetings and budget hearings. Get your voter card, participate and take your place in shaping the future."

Furthermore, the governor advised young individuals to hone their skills and strive for excellence in their chosen professions. He also appealed to Nigerians living abroad to maintain ties with their homeland and contribute to the advancement of their local communities. Sanwo-Olu remarked, "Master a skill, whatever you choose to do. Work at it until you become so good at what you do that your ability speaks for itself."

Reflecting on Lagos State's infrastructural achievements, Sanwo-Olu cited the Blue Line rail project as a prime example of how ambitious undertakings can span decades and require the commitment of multiple administrations to reach completion. He noted, "The Blue Line, first conceived in 1983, became a reality 40 years later through the efforts of successive administrations. That tells us that some of the most important things we start today may be completed by those who come after us."

Drawing from his professional background as a surveyor and banker, Governor Sanwo-Olu explained how these experiences have influenced his approach to urban planning and development. He used the colloquium as an occasion to discuss both the progress made in Lagos State and the ongoing work ahead. As his tenure approaches its conclusion in the coming months, Sanwo-Olu expressed his administration's ambition to finalize projects inherited from previous governments, initiate new ones for future leaders to continue, and establish a robust foundation for generations to come. He articulated his vision, saying, "As I prepare to hand over the reins in a few months, my hope is that we finish what others started, begin work that others can continue and leave behind a solid foundation for those who come after us."

Finally, the governor called upon his generation to embrace the role of mentors, to employ young talent, and to create pathways for the next generation to step into leadership roles. Meanwhile, other political headlines from the day included reports of the APC criticizing Atiku Abubakar for addressing President Tinubu informally, Nyesom Wike declaring himself President Tinubu’s FCT campaign “commander” for the 2027 elections, and former governors Yahaya Bello, Badaru, and Lalong holding a closed-door meeting with Vice President Shettima, reportedly concerning 2027 political strategies.