Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has publicly praised his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, describing him as the best deputy governor in Lagos history. In a personal statement posted on X, Sanwo-Olu highlighted Hamzat's commitment to their administration, saying he kept a promise made on their first day in office to be an exceptional deputy governor. Sanwo-Olu's endorsement comes as Hamzat unveiled his governorship manifesto, "The Lagos PROMISE – Ileri Eko," at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts.
Sanwo-Olu recalled how Hamzat, with 13 years of public service under Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and Babatunde Fashola, had initially wanted to be governor in 2018 but stepped aside for him. The governor noted that Hamzat's selflessness and dedication have been evident throughout their seven-year administration, citing his role in major infrastructure projects, including the COVID-19 response, the Blue and Red Lines, and the Lekki Deep Sea Port.
Sanwo-Olu contrasted Hamzat's active role with the more ceremonial deputy roles seen in many states. He emphasized that Hamzat has been an integral part of their administration, working closely with him for 2,711 days. The governor listed several defining moments of their administration, highlighting Hamzat's contributions to Lagos' development.
The governor framed Lagos' succession since 1999 as a relay race, where the baton is passed to a candidate who is already running. Sanwo-Olu noted that Lagos has been governed by leaders from the same progressive political family, including Tinubu, Fashola, Akinwunmi Ambode, and himself. He argued that Hamzat's bid is a continuation of this legacy, rather than a new experiment.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted Hamzat's technocratic pedigree, citing his experience as Commissioner for Science and Technology under Tinubu and Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure under Fashola. Hamzat holds a doctorate in engineering and is the son of Oba Olatunji Hamzat, a close associate of the first civilian governor of Lagos, Alhaji Lateef Jakande.
The governor defended the continuity model against critics who argue that Lagos recycles the same pool of leaders. Sanwo-Olu argued that Lagos trains its people, and with major projects underway and a master plan stretching to 2052, this is not the time for experimentation. He expressed confidence in Hamzat's ability to lead the state forward.
Hamzat unveiled a seven-point manifesto, "The Lagos PROMISE," which stands for People First, Renewal, Opportunity, Machinery of Government, Inclusion, Security and Resilience, and Everyday Dignity. Sanwo-Olu expressed support for Hamzat's bid, saying it represents the next leg of a race that Lagos has been running since 1999.
Key points
- Sanwo-Olu praises Hamzat as the best deputy governor in Lagos history, citing his dedication and technocratic pedigree.
- Hamzat unveils a seven-point manifesto, "The Lagos PROMISE," outlining his vision for the state.
- Sanwo-Olu defends the continuity model, arguing that Lagos trains its leaders and that now is not the time for experimentation.
