Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has shared insights from his leadership journey, urging young Nigerians to treat every opportunity—no matter how small—with commitment and excellence.
Speaking at the Lagos Leadership Summit on Wednesday, Sanwo-Olu reflected on how his early roles in public service, particularly under the mentorship of President Bola Tinubu, helped shape his capacity to lead. The summit, themed “Transformative Leadership: Developing Responsive, Adaptive and Inclusive Models,” was organised by the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy (LJLA) and held at Konga Place, Lekki.
“Your capacity to deliver on a set of simple tasks entrusted to you in smaller roles can serve as the foundation for greater leadership exploits,” he told the youth-dominated audience.
Sanwo-Olu, who began his public service journey in 2002 as Special Adviser on Economic Matters to then-Governor Tinubu, said he embraced every assignment with diligence—regardless of perceived prestige or rewards.
During his time in various ministries such as Transportation, Environment, and Public Safety, he said he pushed boundaries, challenged norms, and improved systems, all while gaining valuable exposure and building leadership depth.
He recalled being assigned a seemingly “dry” ministry under the administration of former Governor Babatunde Fashola, only to discover that the challenge tested and strengthened his leadership capabilities. “That period gave me the perfect opportunity to advance to the next level and ultimately prepared me for my current position,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu also encouraged the audience not to be discouraged by failures or unmet expectations, calling them part of the growth process.
Also speaking at the event, former Minister and Governor, Babatunde Fashola, focused on the summit’s theme, advocating for inclusion and diversity in leadership. He pointed out that Sections 14 to 19 of Nigeria’s Constitution lay the foundation for federal character, equality, and unity.
“Leaders must build coalitions of unity and belonging,” Fashola said. “It’s not about including everyone—because that’s not always possible—but about ensuring that people feel seen, heard, and not deliberately excluded.”
He emphasized the importance of town hall meetings in promoting transparency, inclusion, and community engagement.
Other notable discussants included the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamali; and the Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Oba Omogbolahan Lawal.
LJLA Executive Secretary Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade expressed optimism about the summit’s impact, saying the large turnout showed that young Nigerians are eager for platforms that inspire leadership and national development.
