Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called on Lagos residents to continue contributing their quota to the development of the state and Nigeria, stressing that national growth can only be achieved through unity and collective effort.
Speaking at the 65th Independence Day Parade held at Lagos House, Marina, the governor said the anniversary theme — “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation” — underscores the need for synergy between government and citizens.
“As Henry Ford once said, if everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “Government and people must find and have faith in each other so that the effort of one is supported wholeheartedly by the other.”
The governor highlighted the THEMES+ Agenda of his administration, which builds on the original THEMES framework with a stronger focus on social inclusion, gender equality, and youth empowerment. He noted that deliberate efforts are being made to protect the weak, uplift the vulnerable, and ensure that no Lagosian is left behind.
According to him, initiatives such as the expansion of the Lagos State Social Register — now capturing over one million households — have strengthened welfare interventions and provided the backbone for direct cash transfers to the poor and vulnerable.
He added that health and education remained top priorities, citing the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme, free primary and secondary schooling, bursaries, scholarships, as well as food subsidies under the Ounje Eko markets initiative as examples of government’s commitment to easing hardship.
“We have stood firmly with our people, even in times of crisis, from the COVID-19 pandemic to the economic pressures of subsidy removal,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Our vision is clear: a Lagos where social protection is real, where the dignity of every citizen is safeguarded, and where no one is left behind in the journey of development.”
While reaffirming his administration’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s drive to reposition Nigeria, the governor urged citizens — especially youths — to be mindful of their use of social media, warning that divisive or negative content could harm the nation’s image.
“The task before us is to build, not to tear down; to unite, not to divide; and to inspire hope, not despair,” he charged.
The event featured a parade by the police and paramilitary organisations, cutting of the 65th Independence anniversary cake, and attendance by top dignitaries including lawmakers, members of the judiciary, white cap chiefs, and members of the diplomatic corps.
Sanwo-Olu concluded his address with a call to patriotism:
“Let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of unity, hard work, and mutual respect. If we hold firmly to this collective resolve, I am confident that the future of peace, prosperity, and enduring greatness that we desire will surely be ours.”