Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, expressed his confidence that Nigeria can solve its security problems by working together, implementing effective governance, and making reforms that allow states and local governments to participate more actively in national growth.
The Governor shared these thoughts on Tuesday during a special lecture in Kaduna, marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The gathering, arranged by the Arewa Think Tank, included prominent individuals such as former governors, ministers, traditional leaders, academics, and development specialists.
Speaking on the topic of “National Security, Unity and Development,” Sanwo-Olu stressed that overcoming insecurity, poverty, and hunger requires efficient local police forces, economic changes, and building infrastructure that links rural and urban areas.
He called for governance to be decentralized and for greater self-rule at the local level as vital steps toward national stability and unity.
Sanwo-Olu stated, “The moment has arrived for Nigeria to adopt state-led innovation and accountability. We must reinforce local governance and ensure that every Nigerian experiences the advantages of democracy.”
He added, “Working together, we will defeat poverty, hunger, and, as President Bola Tinubu has guaranteed, terrorism.”
The Governor celebrated Nigeria’s diversity, calling it a source of power that comes from the country’s extensive mix of cultures and religions.
He urged leaders to be motivated by the vision of the nation’s founders, noting that unity and reform are necessary for progress.
Sanwo-Olu also commended President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for increasing funds to states and local governments, changing tax policies, and giving more financial independence to local authorities. He mentioned that these actions support Lagos State’s THEMES+ agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure, human capital development, inclusion, and lasting growth.
He encouraged Nigerians to accept unity as the country’s most significant asset, emphasizing: “Our diversity is not a drawback but an advantage. With a shared determination, Nigeria will conquer insecurity and all challenges that lie ahead.”
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