- South-West Must Reclaim Its Pioneering Spirit -Sanwo-Olu
- Sanwo-Olu described the SWDC as a “bold affirmation of our collective destiny”
- Commends President Tinubu’s economic reforms
Lagos State Governor and Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on the South-West region to take the lead in Nigeria’s national renewal through deeper collaboration across states, sectors, and communities.
Eko Hot Blog reports that while speaking on Wednesday at the South-West Citizen–Government Engagement Summit held in Akure, Ondo State, the Governor said the region must rekindle its pioneering spirit to set the pace for Nigeria’s development once again.
EDITOR’S PICK
- Tinubu Secures Lawmakers’ Nod for $2.35bn Loan
- Wole Soyinka and Trump’s America: From Torn Green Card to Revoked Visa
- Disciples of Jagaban Defend Tinubu, Say Atiku, Obi Lack Northern Influence
“We are gathered not merely to reflect on our journey but to reimagine our destiny, a South-West that once again sets the pace for Nigeria’s development and becomes the standard for others to emulate,” he said.
The summit, themed “Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future,” brought together political and traditional leaders, civil society groups, youth and women leaders, and community stakeholders.
Sanwo-Olu described the South-West Development Commission (SWDC), recently approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as a “bold affirmation of our collective destiny.” He said the Commission would serve as an institutional platform to coordinate and deliver transformative regional projects similar to those achieved under Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s leadership of the old Western Region.
“Let us rally around this new Commission, not in rhetoric but in action. Now is the time to summon that courage once again, to reclaim our heritage of innovation, education, and good governance,” he added.
The Governor emphasised the need to institutionalise peer learning among South-West states, share successful policies, and jointly develop infrastructure that unites the region.
“Diversity has always been our strength; harmony has always been our advantage. Let us deploy these assets toward a shared regional agenda that delivers inclusive growth for every citizen,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu also commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as transformative and a foundation for renewed investor confidence.
“The reforms did not start out easily, but the President was confident that temporary pain would bring lasting benefits. Time has vindicated him and reaffirmed that Nigerians made the right electoral choice in 2023, one we must consolidate upon in 2027,” he stated.
He added that Lagos State was well-positioned to benefit from increased investment and trade, citing major projects such as the 4th Mainland Bridge, Lagos Green Line, and Lekki International Airport as key drivers of growth.
“Lagos is home to three of Nigeria’s busiest ports, and increased port activity will create jobs and revenue. Once again, Lagos benefits from the foresight of President Tinubu, both as a past Governor and now as President,” Sanwo-Olu said.
FURTHER READING
- FG Outlines Benefits of Nigeria’s Exit from FATF Gray List
- Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs to Leave Prison in May 2028
- Sanwo-Olu Disburses ₦2.7bn to 10,000 Lagos Residents
Click here to watch video of the week
