Lagos APC Spokesman, Seye Oladejo, says Hamzat’s emergence offers an opportunity to consolidate the state’s development legacy, deepen institutional continuity and accelerate growth through his proposed ‘Lagos Promise’ agenda.
Lagos State’s enviable position as Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, a major investment destination and a melting pot of diverse cultures is rooted not only in its strategic location and commercial strength but also in its enduring tradition of visionary leadership and purposeful governance.
In a compelling reflection on the state’s development trajectory, Lagos APC Spokesman, Hon. Seye Oladejo, has described Lagos as a state blessed by geography, enterprise, resilient people and successive generations of leadership committed to its growth and transformation.
Titled “Why Lagos Is Truly Blessed: The Hamzat Years Beckon,” the statement highlights the importance of leadership continuity and the emergence of Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat as the party’s gubernatorial flag bearer ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Oladejo noted that Lagos has continued to evolve through successive administrations, building on the foundational reforms and transformational initiatives introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his tenure as governor, while subsequent administrations have sustained and expanded the state’s development agenda.
According to him, Dr. Hamzat’s emergence presents another opportunity to consolidate this legacy, introduce fresh ideas and position Lagos for greater economic competitiveness and sustainable development.
He described Hamzat’s recently unveiled manifesto, “The Lagos Promise,” as more than a campaign document, noting that it represents a proposed roadmap for addressing the aspirations and developmental needs of a rapidly expanding megacity.
The APC spokesman emphasised that Hamzat’s experience in public administration, particularly his service as Commissioner for Science and Technology, Commissioner for Works and two-term Deputy Governor, gives him considerable insight into the complexities of governance and the demands of managing a megacity like Lagos.
He particularly highlighted Hamzat’s experience in infrastructure development, urban planning and transportation, describing these areas as critical to the state’s future economic productivity and urban development.
Oladejo, however, stressed that experience must translate into innovative policies, measurable achievements and responsive governance.
He identified key areas covered by The Lagos Promise, including human capital development, the knowledge economy, infrastructure, transportation, healthcare, environmental sustainability, security, economic inclusion and energy.
On technology and economic development, he maintained that Lagos must remain at the forefront of digital innovation, artificial intelligence and emerging economic opportunities, while equipping its youthful population with the skills and resources to become job creators, entrepreneurs and globally competitive professionals.
He also underscored the need for sustained investments in infrastructure, transportation, housing and public utilities to address the pressures of population growth, urbanisation and increasing commercial activities.
According to him, healthcare delivery, environmental management, security and social protection must equally remain priorities to ensure that economic growth translates into improved living standards and accessible public services for residents.
On governance continuity, Oladejo observed that Lagos has demonstrated the benefits of successive administrations building on existing investments, strengthening institutions and improving established policies.
He cautioned, however, that continuity must not translate into complacency, but should provide a foundation for innovation, policy refinement and accelerated development.
He further emphasised the importance of translating the promises contained in the manifesto into practical programmes, clear implementation frameworks, realistic timelines and measurable deliverables, noting that residents deserve accountability, transparency and tangible results from those entrusted with public office.
Oladejo maintained that the next phase of Lagos development must focus on building a more competitive, inclusive, technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable state capable of maximising emerging global opportunities.
He concluded that Lagos remains blessed by its geographical advantage, rich cultural heritage, enterprising population and remarkable leadership journey, expressing optimism that The Lagos Promise offers an opportunity to shape an even more prosperous future.
“The Lagos of our dreams cannot be built by nostalgia or rhetoric. It requires vision, experience, innovation, continuity and the courage to confront new challenges,” he stated.
He added that Lagos has a glorious past, an extraordinary present and the opportunity of an even more promising future, declaring that the Hamzat years represent the next chapter in the state’s continuing development journey.
