Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday officially inaugurated the newly elected Chairmen and Vice Chairmen across the state’s 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).
The swearing-in ceremony, which took place at the Sports Ground of the Lagos House in Ikeja, was attended by political stakeholders, traditional leaders, civil society groups, and residents who gathered to witness the occasion.
Addressing the newly sworn-in officials, Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the importance of inclusive and equitable governance at the grassroots level. He urged the local council leaders to prioritise the needs of all constituents, regardless of political affiliation.
“This is not the time for politics. Govern with empathy and equity regardless of those who voted or those who did not vote for you,” Sanwo-Olu said. “You have been called to service, and I strongly believe that you will deliver good governance, being the closest government to the people.”
Sanwo-Olu calls for accountability
He reminded them that their positions come with a responsibility to uphold trust and transparency, while wisely exercising the autonomy granted to local governments. “We have given you the platform, the tools and the opportunity. This is not the time for politics; it is a time to work,” he stated.
The governor also charged the council executives to align their leadership efforts with the THEMES+ development agenda of his administration. “I urge all of you to use your office to drive the THEMES+ development agenda in your various councils,” he added.
Sanwo-Olu reassured the officials of continued support from the state government, promising capacity-building initiatives and leadership training to help them succeed in their roles. He further advised them to be intentional in selecting members of their cabinets.
“Be deliberate about service delivery and align with our vision of a greater Lagos. Your emergence is a call to duty. You must show Lagosians that they made the right choice,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Robert, noted that the outcome of the recent council polls was a reflection of public trust 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.
In a speech on behalf of the council leaders, Mr. Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki LGA, expressed appreciation to the governor and the electorate.
“We are grateful to the electorate for this mandate and to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support. We assure the people that we will not disappoint—we will deliver grassroots governance that works for all,” Olowa said.
