In Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat took the oath of office for a second term in office shortly before noon at the iconic Tafawa Balewa Square, TBS, Lagos Island, amidst heavy rain.
Dressed in various uniformed attires, popularly called aso-ebi, people from all walks of life converged on the TBS as early as 7 o clock in the morning in spite of the rain, causing traffic gridlock within and around Onikan, Lagos Island, where the TBS is situated.
Amidst the rain, Governor Sanwo-Olu went round the main bowl of the TBS waving at the people who had gathered to witness the event.
In his remarks, the Governor who noted that he had delivered the dividends of democracy to the people during the last four years under the six pillared THEMES governing Agenda, representing Transportation and Traffic Management; Health and Environment; Education and Technology; Making Lagos State a 21st Century Megacity, Entertainment & Tourism; as well as Security & Governance,
assured Lagosians of his intention to consolidate on his achievements with what he called “T.H.E.M.E.S+”, with the incorporation of an intensified focus, in the next four years, on Social Inclusion, Gender Equality and Youth, leaving no one behind.
“We assure you that the progress we have made will not be reversed. We will remain steadfast in our mission to make Lagos State a model of good governance, a beacon of hope and opportunity for all. Our path is clear, and our resolve is unshakeable. As we venture into this second term, I want to assure you that the spirit of our endeavours remains unfaltering. We will continue to tackle our challenges head-on and celebrate our successes. We will harness the potential of our greatest resource – our people.
We stand on the threshold of a new era. An era that calls for us to evolve, to reimagine, and to forge ahead. Our vision for Lagos is one that sees no bounds. It is a vision of a city where dreams take flight, where every citizen is a part of our growth story, and where the global community looks towards us with respect and admiration.
We will continue to build a Lagos that is not only a commercial nerve centre but also a hub for innovation, culture, and sustainable development. A Lagos that is not defined merely by its physical boundaries, but by the indefatigable spirit of its people. A Lagos that stands tall among the communities of the world, respected for its commitment to progress, prosperity, and the well-being of its people”. He said.
Promising effective communication, Governor Sanwo-Olu said his administration is open to constructive criticism, and would strive to respect the opinions of others, while expecting the same from them, and solicited the support of the people to achieve the set goals.
He said “Let me also say that the work ahead is not for Government alone. It is not the exclusive responsibility of public servants, or the civil service. We all share the responsibility of our state’s future.
The task ahead of us is, indeed, a collective responsibility. This is why we always say, Igbega Eko, Ajumose Ni O.
The greatness and strength of Lagos lies in the collective spirit of its people; whether it is paying taxes, or treating public property with care and respect, or saying something when we see something going wrong or someone breaking the law. For us as government, I would be the first to acknowledge our own side of this social contract; the responsibility to govern honestly, transparently, humbly and with dedication. I can assure you that our administration will continue to foster a culture of transparency, accountability and participatory governance. Lagos —- We will not let you down”.