65th Independence: Sanwo-Olu vows inclusive growth for all Lagosians

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building an inclusive society where no resident is left behind, as Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary.

Speaking at the commemoration held on Tuesday at the State House, Marina, the Governor described independence as a reminder of both Nigeria’s struggles and resilience, stressing that national progress can only be achieved through collective responsibility between government and citizens.

Sanwo-Olu noted that Lagos’ governance philosophy has been anchored on trust and partnership with the people, adding that the state’s development blueprint, the T.H.E.M.E.S agenda, has now been expanded into T.H.E.M.E.S Plus to reflect deliberate focus on social inclusion, gender equity, and youth empowerment.

“Our commitment is that no Lagosian will be left behind,” the Governor declared, citing the expansion of the State Social Register, which now covers more than one million households across the 57 councils.

He explained that this shift was designed to balance investments in infrastructure with human capital development.

Sanwo-Olu listed ongoing interventions in healthcare delivery, food support schemes, affordable housing projects, educational scholarships, and vocational training available across 37 skill acquisition centres as proof of his administration’s determination to uplift residents, particularly the vulnerable.

He also recalled how Lagos provided a protective cushion during the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent removal of fuel subsidy, insisting that his government would continue to shield citizens during tough times.

The Governor urged Nigerians to strengthen unity, stressing that social media should be deployed to promote constructive dialogue rather than deepen divisions.

“We must resist the temptation to allow new platforms of communication to become weapons of discord. They must serve as channels of education, enlightenment, and shared responsibility,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for steering the nation through difficult but necessary reforms, pointing out that macroeconomic indicators in inflation, exchange rates, food prices, and security suggest that Nigeria is already on a recovery path.

Reiterating Lagos’ position as a secure and attractive investment hub, he acknowledged the contributions of security agencies, the legislature, the judiciary, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and especially young people in sustaining peace and harmony across the state.

Sanwo-Olu called for renewed patriotism, hard work, and mutual respect among Nigerians, noting that the next phase of the country’s journey would demand unity of purpose and unwavering dedication to the collective good.

“History will remember us not for the challenges we faced, but for how we came together to overcome them,” he said.