Lagos 2027: Why I want to succeed Sanwo-Olu

…Unveils vision for inclusive growth, continuity

..Governor reaffirms confidence in deputy

The Deputy Governor of Lagos State and governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Obafemi Hamzat, has declared that his ambition to become the next governor of Lagos is driven by a desire to sustain and deepen the developmental strides achieved in the state over the last 27 years.

Hamzat, who emerged winner of the APC governorship primary election held across the state on Thursday, unveiled what he described as “My Lagos Dream”, a governance agenda focused on inclusive growth, continuity, service delivery, job creation, skills development, healthcare and infrastructure expansion.

Speaking during his acceptance speech after being declared winner of the primary on Thursday’s night, Hamzat said his years in public service and close working relationship with successive governors had prepared him for the enormous responsibility of governing Africa’s largest commercial city.

“My decision to run for Governor was taken after deep reflection. I know governance is not a tea party.

“I have had the privilege of serving under great leaders from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. I have asked myself how I can use my experience for the betterment of Lagos and how we can sustain the progress the state is making. My conclusion is that we can do it,”Hamzat said.

The APC candidate pledged to run an all-inclusive government that would cater for every segment of society, including traders, artisans, transport workers, youths, professionals and investors.

“I will work for all Lagosians; the fisherman in Badagry and Epe, the trader in Oyingbo, Mile 12 and Balogun, the youths in tech hubs at Yaba, the hardworking driver, mechanic, hawker and businessman. I will work for them all,” he declared.

Hamzat said Lagos must continue to maintain its position as Nigeria’s economic nerve centre and a leading African megacity through progressive policies and strategic investments.

According to him, his administration would focus on four critical pillars: improved service delivery, accelerated job creation, knowledge and skills development, as well as health and wellbeing.

On infrastructure, he promised to sustain massive investments in transportation, roads, rail and water systems aimed at easing congestion and boosting economic productivity.

He also stressed the need for an egalitarian society where citizens would be treated equally irrespective of religion, ethnicity or social status.

Highlighting his track record in government, Hamzat recalled serving as Commissioner for Science and Technology under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu between 2005 and 2011, and later as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure during the administration of former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola.

He listed several landmark projects he helped supervise, including the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, Lagos Blue and Red Rail Lines, Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge, Adiyan Water Works and automation of government processes.

Hamzat said the projects reflected the importance of long-term planning, experienced leadership and continuity in governance.

“My manifesto is ready. It is a roadmap built from broad consultations and designed specifically for Lagos. We will continue to build a Lagos that works for all,” he said.

The APC Returning Officer for Lagos State, retired Brigadier-General Jonathan Temlong, declared Hamzat winner of the direct primary election after polling 657,917 votes to defeat Lanre Jim Kamal, who scored one vote.

Temlong disclosed that a third aspirant, Dr. Samuel Mawuyon Àjọṣe, withdrew from the race before voting commenced.

Meanwhile, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has congratulated Hamzat on his emergence as the party’s flagbearer for the 2027 governorship election.

In a statement issued on Friday, Sanwo-Olu described the massive turnout of party faithful during the primary as a strong endorsement of Hamzat’s leadership capacity and vision for the state.

“On behalf of my family, I congratulate Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat on his emergence as the standard bearer of our great party, the APC, in next year’s gubernatorial election in Lagos .

“It is my belief that your personal vision for the continuous growth and development of our State will be for the benefit of all,”the governor said.

Sanwo-Olu also commended party members for their peaceful conduct throughout the primary process and urged them to remain united ahead of the 2027 general election.

Dignitaries at the event included APC leaders, members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), lawmakers, council chairmen and party faithful from across the 20 local government areas and 37 LCDAs of the state.