…As Tinubu, Adeleke, Oborevwori, others celebrate Governor
By Sodiq Adelakun
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday declared a renewed commitment to inclusive governance and transformational leadership as he marked his 60th birthday with a solemn thanksgiving service in Lagos.
Speaking at the event themed Rhythms of Worship with Adura, the governor described the milestone not as a personal celebration, but as a moment of spiritual reflection and rededication to building “a Lagos that works for everyone.”
As the Governor marked his 60th birthday on Wednesday, 25 June 2025, a wave of tributes poured in from across Nigeria’s political, legislative, and cultural spheres, recognising his contributions to governance and public service.
Messages came in from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Lagos State House of Assembly, Osun State Governor Adeleke, Delta State Governor Oborevwori, Niger State Governor Umar, and music executive Olamide, all acknowledging Sanwo-Olu’s role in shaping Lagos into a modern African metropolis.
President Tinubu, a key figure in Sanwo-Olu’s political ascent, praised the governor’s commitment to developmental continuity. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the president commended Sanwo-Olu’s completion of the Blue and Red Rail Lines and the forthcoming Purple Line, linking the strategic Lekki corridor.
“You have remained committed to the vision of transforming Lagos. I encourage you to maintain this focus by advancing vital projects like the Fourth Mainland Bridge and the Freedom Way-VGC corridor,” Tinubu said.
He recalled Sanwo-Olu’s early years in public service, including his tenure as a commissioner and as Managing Director of the Lagos State Property Development Corporation, all under his mentorship.
The Lagos State House of Assembly, represented by House Committee Chairman on Information, Strategy and Security, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe, described the governor as a figure defined by “purpose, integrity and transformational governance.”
The Assembly credited Sanwo-Olu with instilling public trust through strategic and inclusive policymaking.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, extended heartfelt congratulations to Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on the occasion of his 60th birthday, describing him as a symbol of transformational leadership and a unifying force in Nigerian politics.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke expressed deep admiration for Sanwo-Olu’s humane and pragmatic approach to governance, applauding his notable achievements in Lagos and his commitment to fostering a progressive society.
The Osun governor praised Sanwo-Olu’s inclusive style of politics, which, he said, prioritises unity over division and consistently aims to build bridges across diverse communities.
“I celebrate a charismatic leader of the people, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on the occasion of his 60th birthday,” Adeleke said. “Governor Sanwo-Olu is a practical example of what politics should be, as he prioritises building unity rather than sowing discord.”
He commended Sanwo-Olu’s purposeful leadership and far-reaching reforms in Lagos, noting that his colleague has continued to expand on the governance blueprint initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“As a colleague, I have come to appreciate the vision that drives Governor Sanwo-Olu’s numerous interventions in public service. He is an exemplary public servant who inspires a culture of selfless leadership across Nigeria,” Adeleke stated.
Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, in a message signed by his Chief Press Secretary Mr Festus Ahon, hailed Sanwo-Olu as “a respected politician, skilled professional, experienced administrator, and brother governor,” praising his pragmatic and visionary approach to leadership.
Niger State Governor Umar Bago also described the Lagos governor as “an inspirational and courageous leader” whose inter-state initiatives, particularly under the Produce-for-Lagos agricultural partnership, are fostering national collaboration.
In the entertainment sector, music icon Olamide shared a video message appreciating Sanwo-Olu’s contributions to the industry, wishing him continued success, health, and divine grace.
However, political commentator Otunba Segun Showunmi offered a more candid tribute. In a statement titled Not Bad for 60, Showunmi acknowledged Sanwo-Olu’s achievements but warned that Lagos risked descending into urban chaos without stronger enforcement of environmental and planning regulations.
“What must be pulled down should be pulled down. Lagos must not become a mega slum. This is not a no man’s land, it is a land that must be governed,” he stated, urging the governor to empower the Ministry of Environment and strengthen urban enforcement mechanisms.
Marking the milestone at a thanksgiving event titled Rhythms of Worship with Adura, Sanwo-Olu described the day not merely as a personal celebration, but a spiritual moment of gratitude and renewed dedication to public service.
“Lagos is not just a city, it is an idea and a promise,” the governor said. “Even at 60, I remain energised by the responsibility of leading Africa’s largest city-state.”
He explained that the event’s theme, Adura (Yoruba for ‘prayer’), was drawn from his name, Aduragbemi, “prayer has lifted me,”noting that prayer continues to guide his personal and political journey.
The governor expressed gratitude to his family, political team, and supporters, acknowledging their unwavering encouragement. He thanked his wife, children, friends, and political allies, describing the celebration as a shared achievement.
The thanksgiving service attracted an array of dignitaries, including Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, and Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti. Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr Obafemi Hamzat and former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola were also present.
The atmosphere combined reverence and celebration, with performances by gospel artists Moses Bliss, Mercy Chinwo, Arugbo Ojo, and Emma Oh My God, alongside the MFM Guitar Choir and Dream Catchers Academy.
Sanwo-Olu concluded with a renewed pledge to serve Lagos with integrity, vision, and empathy, promising continued progress and inclusive leadership.