Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has recalled how President Bola Tinubu brought him into government in his 30s, saying the president encouraged young professionals to question ideas, exchange views and develop their leadership abilities.
Sanwo-Olu made the remarks on Monday while speaking at the 41st birthday colloquium of Seyi Tinubu in Lagos.
In a post on X following the event, the governor said Tinubu’s willingness to involve young professionals in government created an environment where they could contribute ideas and gain experience.
“When HE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu brought me into government in my 30s, his cabinet was filled with young professionals willing to challenge ideas and push boundaries. He gave us room to debate and grow. That is how leaders are made,” he wrote.
The governor encouraged young Nigerians to take an active interest in governance, stressing that decisions affecting their daily lives were often taken at the grassroots level through community meetings, ward meetings and budget hearings.
“To our young people, I say keep showing up. Decisions that affect your lives are made at community meetings, ward meetings and budget hearings. Get your voter card, participate and take your place in shaping the future,” he said.
He also urged young people to build expertise in their chosen professions, arguing that dedication and competence could help them stand out.
“Master a skill, whatever you choose to do. Work at it until you become so good at what you do that your ability speaks for itself,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu further advised Nigerians who travel abroad to maintain ties with their home country and contribute to the development of their communities.
Speaking on infrastructure development in Lagos, the governor cited the Blue Line rail project as an example of the long-term commitment required to deliver major public projects.
He noted that the project was first conceived in 1983 but became operational four decades later through the contributions of successive administrations.
“The Blue Line, first conceived in 1983, became a reality 40 years later through the efforts of successive administrations. That tells us that some of the most important things we start today may be completed by those who come after us,” he said.
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The governor said his professional experience as a surveyor and banker had influenced his approach to planning and development. He added that the colloquium provided an opportunity to reflect on Lagos State’s achievements and the tasks still ahead.
With his tenure approaching its end in the coming months, Sanwo-Olu said his administration was focused on completing projects inherited from previous governments while initiating others that future administrations could continue.
“As I prepare to hand over the reins in a few months, my hope is that we finish what others started, begin work that others can continue and leave behind a solid foundation for those who come after us,” he said.
He also urged members of his generation to support the emergence of younger leaders by mentoring them, recruiting young professionals and creating opportunities for them to develop their abilities and take on leadership responsibilities.