Nigeria at 65: Sanwo-Olu pledges inclusive governance, unity

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, social protection, and national unity as Nigeria marked its 65th Independence Anniversary.

He made the remarks on Wednesday during the Independence Day celebration at the State House Marina, emphasizing that lasting progress can only be achieved when government and citizens work together with trust and shared responsibility.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted that his administration has implemented deliberate policies under the T.H.E.M.E.S agenda, later expanded into the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus framework to deepen social inclusion and youth empowerment.

“We realized that to achieve greater impact, we had to double our pace and broaden our focus. That is why the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda goes beyond infrastructure to strengthen gender balance, protect the vulnerable, and empower our young people,” he said.

The governor assured that no Lagos resident would be left behind, pointing to the expansion of the Lagos Social Register to include over one million households across all 57 councils. He cited initiatives such as affordable healthcare through the State Health Insurance Scheme, food subsidies, housing schemes, scholarships for indigent students, and empowerment via 37 skill acquisition centres.

“Even during difficult times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the removal of the fuel subsidy, Lagos remained people-focused, ensuring that relief measures reached the most vulnerable,” he added.

Sanwo-Olu called for unity among citizens, urging responsible use of social media as a platform for constructive engagement rather than division. He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his leadership, noting that improvements in inflation, exchange rates, food prices, and security indicate that reforms are beginning to yield results.

The governor expressed confidence in Nigeria’s future, assuring investors and the international community of Lagos’ position as a peaceful, investment-friendly destination. He praised security agencies, the legislature, judiciary, religious leaders, traditional institutions, and youths for sustaining peace and development, concluding with a call for renewed dedication to unity, hard work, and mutual respect.