On November 10, 2026, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu attended the inauguration of the reconstructed Lagos State Governor's Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, representing President Bola Tinubu. The project, executed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, replaces a lodge that had accommodated Lagos governors during official visits to Abuja for several decades. The new development comprises approximately 2,700 square meters of built-up space, incorporating the main residence, a guest house, and a utility building.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stated that the development would provide accommodation for successive governors and a base for meetings with federal officials, diplomats, and investors. He emphasized that the project was necessary due to the state's expanding engagements in the capital and the need for a working base in Abuja. Sanwo-Olu noted that decisions taken in the federal capital continued to affect the state's economy and development.

The construction program included demolishing the previous structure and replacing unsuitable soil before proceeding with the new development. Julius Berger Nigeria Plc's managing director, Peer Lubasch, revealed that work began in July 2025 and finished in September 2026, with a total construction period of 15 months. The project required excavation approaching 10 meters in depth.

At the inauguration, Oluremi Tinubu urged public officials to maintain government property and improve the infrastructure entrusted to them. She linked that responsibility to the interests of citizens and the needs of future administrations. The First Lady commended the state government and those who carried out the reconstruction, acknowledging the involvement of various stakeholders in completing the work.

Sanwo-Olu explained that Lagos needed a working base in Abuja due to the state's continued relationship with the Federal Government. He recalled the relocation of Nigeria's seat of government from Lagos to Abuja in December 1991 and noted that Lagos retained its ports, markets, financial institutions, and other commercial activities after the move. The governor credited the Tinubu administration with supporting infrastructure development in Lagos.

The ceremony also included a endorsement of Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat's governorship candidacy. Sanwo-Olu introduced his deputy as the All Progressives Congress candidate for the 2027 Lagos governorship election and urged those present to support him. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including former governors, state officials, and members of the National Assembly.

Key points

  • The reconstructed Lagos State Governor's Lodge in Abuja aims to provide accommodation and a base for official engagements.
  • The project was executed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc at a cost that was not disclosed.
  • The inauguration was attended by various dignitaries, including former governors and state officials.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.