As Lagos State prepares for the seventh gubernatorial election since 1999, the candidates leave no stone unturned in their bid to convince the electorate to vote for them. Among the candidates is the incumbent Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, seeking a second term in office. Sanwo-Olu’s people-centered approach has endeared him to many. Here’s why I will vote for him as Lagos State Governor on Saturday.
Over the past three and a half years, Sanwo-Olu has successfully implemented many people-centered projects that have greatly improved the lives of Lagosians. His first term in office focused on six key pillars of the state’s strategic development agenda: Traffic Management and Transportation, Health and Environment, Education and Technology, Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy, Entertainment and Tourism, and Security and Governance, commonly referred to as T.H.E.M.E.S.
One of the notable projects he completed was the Lagos Blue Line, a light rail project that has been in the works for over a decade. The project, which will ease traffic congestion in the city, has been a much-needed relief for Lagosians who have had to endure long hours of traffic gridlock on the roads. Completing this project alone speaks volumes about Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving the lives of Lagosians.
In addition to the Lagos Blue Line, Sanwo-Olu completed the Imota Rice Mill, which can produce 2.5 million bags of rice annually. The mill is the largest in Africa and the third largest globally, with an installed capacity of 32 metric tons per hour. This project is significant as it supports the government’s efforts to promote agriculture and boost food security in Lagos State. Completing the rice mill has created job opportunities for the people of Imota and its environs, which will go a long way in reducing poverty in the state.
During his first term, Sanwo-Olu undertook the challenging task of constructing the 18.7km 6-lane Eleko-Epe expressway. The road had been in an abysmal state for a shocking 42 years. This deplorable road condition has caused immense difficulties for commuters and residents in the region. Thankfully, Sanwo-Olu’s intervention in reconstructing the road has brought about a remarkable improvement in the transportation system of Epe, making life easier for the people in the area. By fulfilling his promise of fixing the Eleko Road, Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to improving Lagosians’ lives, which is why he has won the hearts of many.
Choosing a leader for a multiethnic state like Lagos requires careful consideration of several factors, including leadership skills. As we approach the gubernatorial election, two visible candidates have emerged: Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the Labour Party and Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran (aka Jandor) of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). However, it’s important to note that both candidates possess the necessary leadership skills to steer Lagos state toward progress. Gbadebo’s limited experience includes two election losses – in 2017, he contested for the Ikeja Local Government Area chairmanship under the K.O.W.A. party and lost. In 2019, he ran for the senate seat to represent Lagos west under the PDP and lost again. Unfortunately, little to be said about his work experience at Franklin Ellis Architects and S.I.S.A., Cliff Consulting, now called Building Partnership C.C.P. Similarly, Jandor’s political expertise is also limited, as he’s primarily known as a political journalist who covered A.P.C. events.
In contrast, Sanwo-Olu has over three decades of experience in private and public service, making him the most qualified candidate for the position of Lagos state governor. His extensive background includes heading financial organizations and serving as a Commissioner in Lagos under two different administrations. These experiences have equipped him with the leadership skills to lead Lagos state toward greatness. In fact, his leadership skills were put to the test during the COVID-19 pandemic. His prompt response to the pandemic curtailed the spread of the virus in Lagos State. Sanwo-Olu set up isolation centers and made adequate provisions for medical supplies, testing kits, and personal protective equipment for healthcare workers. He also instituted a lockdown in the state, which helped slow the spread of the virus. Sanwo-Olu’s proactive response to the pandemic has saved countless lives in Lagos State.
Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving the quality of life for Lagosians extends beyond completing people-centered projects and handling the pandemic. He has also initiated several in-roads to ease the daily struggles of Lagosians. One such project is the ongoing construction of the Opebi-Ojota bridge. This bridge project clearly indicates Sanwo-Olu’s unwavering dedication to easing traffic congestion in the area, reducing travel time, and improving the general transportation system in the state. When completed, the Opebi-Ojota bridge will bring significant relief to Lagosians, making commuting easier and smoother, which is a priority for Sanwo-Olu’s administration. The Governor’s commitment to making Lagos a better place to live in is evident in the numerous initiatives he has embarked on, including this bridge project. Lagosians can rest assured that their well-being remains his top priority.
Sanwo-Olu’s people-centered approach is what sets him apart from his competitors. He designed the projects and policies with the people in mind and has shown his commitment to improving their lives. His approach to governance is centered on the people, and he has consistently demonstrated his willingness to listen to their needs and concerns. Sanwo-Olu’s achievements during his first term in office are a testament to his commitment to the people of Lagos State.
As Saturday approaches, we must choose a leader with a proven track record, commitment to delivering people-centered projects, and vision for making Lagos a better place to live in. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s achievements and people-centered approach over the past three and a half years have made him the best candidate for the job.
In light of this, I strongly urge Lagosians to re-elect Babajide Sanwo-Olu as the Governor of Lagos State. His dedication, experience, and proven track record make him the best candidate for the job. With Sanwo-Olu at the helm of affairs, Lagos State is on the path to becoming a better place for all of us.
