President Bola Tinubu praises Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila for their contributions to governance, development and public service
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday congratulated Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on his 61st birthday and his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, on his 64th birthday, praising both men for their contributions to governance, public service and national development.
The congratulatory messages were contained in a statement issued in Abuja by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
In his tribute to Sanwo-Olu, Tinubu commended the Lagos governor for his role in advancing the state’s economic growth, infrastructure development and cultural transformation.
The President noted that Sanwo-Olu had successfully leveraged his experience in both the private and public sectors to strengthen Lagos’ position as Nigeria’s commercial hub and one of Africa’s leading urban centres.
“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s efforts in consolidating on the economic, infrastructural, and cultural transformation of Lagos State into a vibrant, dynamic and structured global city, with growing influence across the country, and the world are remarkable,” the statement said.
Tinubu also applauded the governor’s commitment to sustaining Lagos State’s reputation as a centre of excellence, describing his contributions as significant to the state’s continued progress.
The President further praised Sanwo-Olu’s loyalty to the ruling All Progressives Congress and his support for the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, a policy framework aimed at driving economic growth and improving citizens’ welfare.
As a personal gesture, Tinubu prayed for continued good health, long life and greater accomplishments for the governor as he begins a new year.
Sanwo-Olu, who turned 61 on Thursday, has served as governor of Lagos State since May 2019 and secured a second term in office following his re-election in 2023.
Under his administration, Lagos has pursued major infrastructure projects, transportation reforms and urban renewal initiatives designed to support the state’s rapidly growing population.
The President also reserved warm words for Gbajabiamila, who marked his 64th birthday on the same day.
Tinubu described the former Speaker of the House of Representatives as a steadfast ally, accomplished legislator and dedicated public servant whose political career has been closely tied to the evolution of Nigeria’s democratic system.
“As you celebrate your 64th birthday today, I deeply appreciate your loyalty, dedication, and sacrifice,” Tinubu said.
“Throughout the years, you have demonstrated capacity for service, placing national interest above personal considerations and working tirelessly for the progress of our country.”
Gbajabiamila served as Speaker of the House of Representatives between 2019 and 2023 after spending two decades in the National Assembly representing Surulere Federal Constituency in Lagos State.
The President highlighted his contributions to legislative development and his role in the formation and growth of the All Progressives Congress, which emerged in 2013 through the merger of several opposition political parties.
Tinubu also commended his Chief of Staff for effectively coordinating government operations and supporting the implementation of key administration policies.
“Your dedication to duty and ability to coordinate complex governmental processes have contributed immensely to the realisation of our Renewed Hope Agenda,” the President added.
The birthday messages come amid ongoing efforts by the administration to advance economic reforms and governance initiatives across the country, with both Sanwo-Olu and Gbajabiamila playing prominent roles within the broader political structure of the ruling party.
As a secondary highlight, the joint celebration underscores the long-standing political relationship among the three leaders, whose careers have intersected over the years in Lagos politics and national governance.
Tinubu concluded his message by praying for continued wisdom, strength and good health for Gbajabiamila as he continues to serve in one of the most strategic positions within the Presidency.
The President’s tributes reflect the influence both men have exercised in public office and their enduring roles in shaping policy, governance and political development in Nigeria.
Quadri Olaitan is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, public affairs, and human-interest stories.
