Many qualities define a leader, whether in politics or in the corporate world but integrity, humility and loyalty tower above all. A cursory look at the life and times of successful leaders often reveals these qualities and why such leaders are celebrated by their subjects. Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Oluโs life and career trajectory can be said to have been solidly built over the years upon these virtues.
History has taught us that the leaders most respected for leaving their mark on the world, their countries, or their organizations have been those who have inspired people to act and perform. Sanwo-Olu fits into this category of leaders because his leadership was characterized by his commitment to truth, loyalty, and service, emphasizing empowerment over power and inspiring change through example. He believes in leading by example, living a life consistent with the values he espoused and inspiring others to follow suit. His leadership style is focused on moral authority, ethical conduct, and self-discipline.
As Governor, Mr. Sanwo-Olu has consistently distinguished himself through his tireless efforts to promote justice, accountability, and the rule of law. The last six years have been marked by significant strides in nation-building, building on the success of his predecessors and leaders, with an indelible mark on Lagos State development.
At 60, his legacy is characterized by his selflessness, dedication to the public good, fostering a sense of unity and inclusiveness among Lagosians and Nigerians as a whole. Beyond Lagos, which is a natural pacesetter for infrastructural development and economic growth in Nigeria, todayโs birthday boy has worked assiduously to mobilize citizens towards a common goal of building a just and peaceful society.
“His leadership style, his calm demeanour in the face of serious challenges is notable for its emphasis on good and responsive governance for people of Lagos State. These values continue to serve as a benchmark for good governance and leadership in Nigeria”.
As the world celebrates him today, no doubt the fact that his contributions, both in corporate Nigeria and public service have aroused our consciousness on the need for leaders to serve with the mindset of putting forward a transformative power of selfless service and the importance of prioritizing the welfare of citizens.
In the last 30 years of his being in the saddle of leadership under tested mentors and role models till the time he assumed office as Lagos Governor, Sanwo-Olu has recorded several landmark achievements as a man of integrity, loyalty and humility.
I write this to pay a fitting tribute to Mr. Governor, not because he is a first rate administrator and an acknowledged expert in financial services; not because of the present position he occupies as the Governor of Lagos State; not because of his status as a distinguished fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Training and Development (NITAD) and certainly not on account of his past distinguished public service record that is widely acknowledged by all and sundry and many more of such accomplishments that one may have lost count, but significantly because of the huge difference our most humble, unassuming leader of people with direction and vision has brought to the character of governance. He has done this without undermining his political leaders and without losing his calm and humility.
Sanwo-Olu has always impressed me even before he rose to his present height with his commitment to core values, uncommon humility and administrative skills and because of his uncommon passion for service and humanitarian causes.
As APC Zonal Woman Leader for South-west, I am also impressed by his commitment to standards and excellence in whatever he does, a trait he has refreshingly brought to governance.There is also the element of his famed integrity which has continued to soar in spite of exposure to public resources and sensitive high places.
“Looking back, one can conclude that his background as a technocrat of note has impacted so well on his career as politician and public servant. A man of peace, Sanwo-Oluโs approach to politics has been very inspiring and progressive. Under him, Lagos has not only witnessed developments, the city has been rated by a global agency as one of the best cities in the world. Early this year, Time Out ranked the state as one of the worldโs best cities for 2025, joining Cape Town and Marrakech as the only African cities on the global list. The ranking, based on residentsโ feedback and expertsโ input, highlights Lagos for its vibrant culture, ease of social connection, and growing creative scene. See the new rankings and find out what makes these cities stand out”.
As an ardent follwer of Mr. Governor,I am very proud of all his accomplishments. I salute his tenacity and resilience in standing tall and working vehemently for the cause of the masses.
As he climbs the 6th ladder,on behalf of the entire women in the South-west, I congratulate him and wish him Godโs abundant blessings as we look forward to more successful years in good health. May his strength be renewed to continue to enjoy Godโs favour and live well. Sixty hearty cheers to the man to my darling Governor.
๐น๐๐ค๐ฅ ๐๐๐ค๐๐๐ค ๐ฝ๐ฃ๐ ๐;
Arabirin Yetunde Shakirat Adesanya(Abiyamo).
(Wednesday June 25, 2025).
