By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Democracy Award at the 7th Africa Political Summit and Diamond Awards, organized by the Association of Political Consultants Africa (APCA). The event, held from December 11 to 14 at Lux Marijani in Zanzibar, brought together political consultants, leaders, and stakeholders to discuss the theme, “Building Resilient Democracies: Elections, Transitions, and Governance.”
Dr. Agbaje, joined by Mr. Kehinde Gbajumo, the Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Office, received the award.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by Dr. Nurudeen Yekinni Agbaje, Special Adviser on Rural Development, underscored the importance of resilient democracies in fostering effective governance, safeguarding human rights, and promoting inclusivity across Africa.
During his address, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the transformative achievements of Lagos State under his THEMES PLUS Developmental Agenda, which encompasses innovation, infrastructure, healthcare, commerce, tourism, and security. Key milestones include:
Innovation and Technology: Implementation of smart city solutions and expansion of broadband access.
Infrastructure: Completion of the Red and Blue Line rail systems and extensive road network upgrades.
Healthcare: Expansion of primary healthcare services and the Lagos Health Insurance Scheme (LHIS).
Economic Growth: Establishment of Free Trade Zones and the Lekki Deep Sea Port’s successful operationalization.
Security: Adoption of advanced surveillance technologies and community safety initiatives.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the need for continued investment in electoral technology, robust civic education, and political inclusivity to strengthen Africa’s democratic systems. He called for peaceful power transitions, comprehensive legal frameworks, and statesmanship to ensure stability across the continent.
The Democracy Award was presented by APCA President Kipngeno Kirui Duncan, who commended Sanwo-Olu’s visionary leadership in advancing governance and democracy in Lagos State. Nigeria’s APCA Chairperson, Temitope Lakisokun, also lauded the governor for building institutional capacity and setting a benchmark for leadership.
In his acceptance speech, Sanwo-Olu dedicated the award to the people of Lagos, attributing the state’s progress to their unwavering trust and collaboration. He urged African leaders to tackle challenges like economic inequality, political violence, and authoritarianism, transforming innovative ideas into actionable strategies for inclusive democracy.