BY KP Reporter
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Sunday swore in the newly elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen for the 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), urging them to embrace inclusive governance and deliver on their mandates.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the Sports Ground of the Governor’s Office, Lagos House, Ikeja, Sanwo-Olu reminded the new council officials that their emergence is a call to duty and not a time for politicking.
“This is not the time for politics. Govern with empathy and equity regardless of those who voted or did not vote for you,” the governor said. “You have been called to service, and I strongly believe you will deliver good governance, being the closest government to the people.”
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of trust, accountability, and purposeful use of the autonomy granted to local councils. He also charged the new leaders to align their policies with the state’s THEMES+ development agenda and to be thorough in selecting cabinet members.
“You must show Lagosians that they made the right choice. Be deliberate about service delivery and align with our vision of a greater Lagos,” he added.
The governor assured that his administration would continue to provide the necessary support and capacity-building opportunities to help the council leaders perform effectively.
Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Robert, described the outcome of the local council elections as a reflection of public confidence in the elected leaders.
“The victory of today’s sworn-in Chairmen and their deputies is not just political; it is a demonstration of public trust and a call to deepen democracy at the grassroots,” Robert said.
Speaking on behalf of the new Chairmen, Mr. Sesan Olowa of Ibeju-Lekki LGA expressed appreciation to the governor and the electorate, promising not to betray their trust.
“We assure the people that we will not disappoint—we will deliver grassroots governance that works for all,” Olowa said.
The event was attended by party chieftains, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and residents from across the state.