Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu was awarded the prestigious 2024 Democracy Award at the 7th Africa Political Summit and Diamond Awards, organized by the Association of Political Consultants Africa (APCA).
Held from Wednesday, 11 December, 2024 to Saturday, 14 December, 2024, at Lux Marijani in Zanzibar, Tanzania, the event gathered political consultants, leaders, and stakeholders to discuss the theme, “Building Resilient Democracies: Elections, Transitions, and Governance.”
Represented by Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, his Special Adviser on Rural Development, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the essential role of resilient democracies in promoting effective governance, safeguarding human rights, and fostering inclusivity across Africa.
In his address, Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos State’s transformative progress under his THEMES PLUS Developmental Agenda, noting key achievements that include advancements in innovation, infrastructure, healthcare, commerce, tourism, and security.
Key accomplishments presented by Governor Sanwo-Olu include:
Innovation and Technology: The implementation of smart city solutions and the expansion of broadband access.
Infrastructure Development: Completion of the Red and Blue Line rail systems and major upgrades to the road network.
Healthcare: Expansion of primary healthcare services and the introduction of the Lagos Health Insurance Scheme (LHIS).
Economic Growth: Establishment of Free Trade Zones and the successful operationalization of the Lekki Deep Sea Port.
Security: The use of advanced surveillance technologies and community-based safety initiatives.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also stressed the need for continued investment in electoral technology, the importance of robust civic education, and increased political inclusivity to further strengthen Africa’s democratic systems. He emphasized the necessity of peaceful power transitions, comprehensive legal frameworks, and statesmanship to ensure stability across the continent.
The Democracy Award was presented to Governor Sanwo-Olu by APCA President Kipngeno Kirui Duncan, who praised his visionary leadership and commitment to advancing democratic governance in Lagos State.
Temitope Lakisokun, Nigeria’s APCA Chairperson, lauded Sanwo-Olu’s efforts to build institutional capacity and strengthen governance structures, setting a high standard for leadership.
The Democracy Award, which has previously been bestowed on distinguished leaders such as Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu and Kenya’s President William Ruto, recognizes exceptional contributions to promoting democratic principles and governance across Africa.
In his acceptance speech, Governor Sanwo-Olu dedicated the honor to the people of Lagos State, attributing the state’s progress to their unwavering trust and collaboration.
He concluded by urging African leaders to address pressing challenges such as economic inequality, political violence, and authoritarianism. Governor Sanwo-Olu called on summit participants to transform innovative ideas into actionable strategies for building stronger, more inclusive democracies across the continent.
The summit reaffirmed Africa’s collective commitment to advancing resilient democratic systems and remains a crucial platform for collaboration and innovation across the continent.
Dr. Agbaje, was joined in receiving the prestigious award by Mr. Kehinde Gbajumo, Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Office.
