Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reflected on his leadership journey, outlining the values and impact he hopes will define his legacy as governor of Nigeria’s commercial hub.
Titansloaded reports that the governor, in a rare interview, described his first weeks in office in 2019 as a period dominated by urgent, street-level leadership rather than ceremonial governance.
Sanwo-Olu recalled that he was sworn in during the peak of the rainy season, with flooding, refuse management, and the notorious Apapa gridlock already posing serious challenges to daily life in Lagos.
According to him, the circumstances forced him out of the comfort of boardrooms and into direct engagement on the streets, working closely with key agencies to address pressing infrastructural and environmental issues.
The governor admitted that public reactions at the time were mixed, with doubts raised about his capacity to manage the complex demands of Lagos, but he said the pressure strengthened his resolve to act decisively.
He explained that leadership in Lagos requires swift action, collaboration, and an understanding of how policies affect residents at the grassroots, particularly traders, transport workers, and small business owners.
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Sanwo-Olu emphasised that true progress should be measured not only by infrastructure but by the resilience and economic independence of Lagosians, noting that the city’s strength lies in its people.
He added that empowering residents to grow businesses and withstand economic shocks remains a core focus of his administration’s development strategy.
Speaking on legacy, the governor said he hopes to be remembered for strengthening institutions, improving security, and creating systems that allow people to succeed regardless of background.
As his administration moves toward the latter phase of its tenure, Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and sustainable development across Lagos State.
