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Babajide Sanwo-Olu: The Prolific Anglican in Lagos Government House
By Eric Elezuo
May 29, 2019 was just an anti-climax to a series of events and activities that pointed to one direction – the Lagos House, Alausa, which doubles as the official residence and office of the number citizen of lagos state and his family. It was for Anglican born and raised Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
The technocrat’s journey to the seat of power did not just start, as widely reported, when the Mandate Group of the All Progressives Congress (APC) said to be loyal to the former governor of the state, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, chose him. It started long before then, back to the days of his infancy, youth and career handling and dispositions as an adult. Sanwo-Olu paved his own way by being dutiful, expressing integrity and going the extra mile in every of his endeavours. This is coupled with a background training given to him by the Anglican church, with special mention of the Lagos Diocese. It was a touch of divinity that assisted his defeating an incumbent in the party primary by a huge margin.
To express his zeal in the service of God and humanity, Sanwo-Olu has been in the forefront of showcasing the Anglican Church to the greater world, and has not failed, with his wife, to participate in every activity the church is involved in, his tight political and industrial schedule notwithstanding.
For 12 uninterrupted years, between 2004 when the 29th Synod was held and 2015 when the 32nd Synod took place, Sanwo-Olu was one of the delegates representing the Lagos Diocese at the Synod, which is the highest meeting body of the Anglican Church. Coincidentally, in 2007, he qualified to be a delegate with his wife.
This year, the Diocese celebrated 100 years of untainted activities to the glory of God. The activities marking the centenary landmark is still ongoing.
Consequently, the technocrat has been a Synod delegate for such intimidating number of years, signifying his Anglican heritage and attachment.
It is therefore, imperative for those who erroneously associate him with other leanings to take correction. He is a prolific and professing Anglican.
Sanwo-Olu is widely regarded as a public sector expert in human resources and policy formation, a power sector consultant per excellence, an astute banker, a compelling public speaker and an inspirational leader.
He carries within him a robust public sector service experience which spanned over eight years.
His meteoric rise within the system of the Lagos State government is particularly exemplary; testament to his unique leadership abilities and exceptional contributions to good governance within the State.
Sanwo-Olu’s appointment, in 2003, as Special Adviser on Corporate Matters to then Deputy Governor, Mr Femi Pedro took the government circles by storm.
With Bank executives
In recognition of his abilities coupled with his outstanding performance, within one year, he earned the same job title and description but this time working with the then Executive Governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
Working directly with the Governor, he was responsible for creating an environment that fosters private sector participation and was instrumental to the present situation where members of the private sector see themselves as stakeholders in the governance of the State.
He also formulated policies and programmes to improve the relationship between government and Organized Private Sector (OPS).
In conjunction with other agencies of government, Sanwo-Olu was able to initiate, identify, promote and structure new projects and programmes in areas like the Environment, Transportation, Commerce, Finance and Infrastructure while also preparing and tracking the Internally Generated Revenue from various agencies including the BIR and analysing same for the Governor.
He was also responsible for the preparation and publication of the Lagos State Economic Empowerment and Development Strategy (LASEEDS).
While still serving in this capacity, Babajide was appointed acting Honourable Commissioner, Economic Planning and Budget, owing to his hard work and attention to details. He became responsible for the preparation of the annual budget for the State Government and the processing of the annual budget of the different parastatals; a duty he performed judiciously.
It was no surprise therefore, when in 2007, he became the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry until the end of that administration.
At the start of the next administration, Sanwo-Olu was again appointed Honourable Commissioner, this time, for Establishments, Training and Pensions.
Babajide’s sterling team playing ability was evident in the critical roles he played within the government in partnership with several units and ofces.
For instance, in conjunction with the Head of Service, he was responsible for timely review of salaries, wages and allowances while he also articulated the state government’s Conditions of Service. As a security awareness expert, he helped set up the Lagos State Security Trust Fund and subsequently became a board member for over four years.
He also distinguished himself serving on the Board of the Department for International Development, DFID/DEEPEN Fund.
His last stint in Government was as General Manager, Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC).
With immediate past governor, Ambode
In the prrivate sector contributed to a number of thriving organisations, including Baywatch Group Limited – a multi-faceted company with interests in construction, property development and human capital development – where he has served as Chairman/CEO since July 2011.
First Class Group Limited, a cooling, power and maintenance solutions provider recognised widely for providing critical support for all major telecommunications company in the area of specialised cooling.
Powercap Consulting, a leading power consulting boutique with vast experience in power privatisation exercise.
Beryl Shelter, an estate management rm that specialises in research, marketing intelligence and sales of high end properties. Wow! Interiors, an interior design services and luxury furniture retail store for high end corporate and residential clients.
He was also member of the Board Audit Committee of Caverton Offshore Services Group, PLC and as Director, Light Level Nigeria Limited, the foremost digital signage company in Nigeria.
The very dynamic Sanwo-Olu also had a close to ten years of exemplary banking experience during which he contributed immensely to the growth and development of Lead Bank Plc, UBA, and First Atlantic Bank (now First City Monument Bank) in various critical capacities.
As Treasurer at Lead Bank Plc between 1994 and 1997, Babajide managed the liquid asset of the bank and general funding requirements on a daily basis. At United Bank for Africa, UBA, he was Senior Manager (Head, Foreign Money Market) managing the bank’s liquidity position vis a vis profitability. He was also responsible for articulating and implementing the bank’s strategy in Investment Banking activities and Issuing House and Portfolio Management.
Subsequently, Sanwo-Olu rose to the position of Deputy General Manager (Divisional Head) at First Inland Bank Plc, where he was Corporate Financial Advisor to several multinational companies. He also supervised the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) privatisation projects including the concession of the National Arts Theatre, and the Lagos Trade International Fair Complex, the acquisition of Ikoyi Hotels Limited as well as the Federal Government Debt Conversion Programme.
Although he holds an MBA and a B.Sc in Surveying from the University of Lagos, his quest for knowledge has taken him to several courses and trainings in several continents of the world, including Europe, USA, Asia and Africa. He is an alumnus of the prestigious Kennedy School of Government, USA; the London Business School as well as the Lagos Business School, LBS.
Sanwo-Olu is also an Associate member of The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) and fellow of The Nigeria Institute of Training and Development (NITAD).
A man of admirable social skills, he also creates some time for leisure and social activities amidst his demanding itinerary, as he is a member of the Ikoyi Club, the Island Club, as well as the Clear Essence Health Club.
Babajide’s laudable achievements have not gone unnoticed. He has received several awards in recognition of his tremendous contributions to society.
They include the Symbol of Excellence award from the Civic Enlightenment Association of Nigeria, a Gold mentor award from the National Association of Nigeria Nurses & Midwives (NANNM), a Platinum award from the Lagos State Public Service Club and the 2009 Best in Human Capital Development award from the Industrial Training Fund (ITF). He has also received several merit awards from the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management in Nigeria (CIPMN) amongst others.
He is happily married to Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, who has divinely been dabbed with the cloak of First Lady of Lagos state, and they are blessed with glorious children.
Wema Bank has introduced a new jingle to mark the next phase of its digital banking journey, tagged the ALAT: The Evolution jingle. Designed to capture the energy of a smarter and more seamless banking experience, the jingle is bright, catchy, and full of life. It reflects a platform built to simply work, pairing sound with innovation as ALAT: The Evolution steps forward with enhanced features and a refreshed user experience.
Everyday banking can often feel routine or even stressful, with multiple steps and delays slowing things down. The ALAT: The Evolution jingle reimagines that experience with a lively and confident tone that mirrors the app’s capabilities. From voice banking with SAW to Tap and Pay and bank uptime prediction, each feature is echoed in the rhythm and flow of the sound. It brings to life the speed, convenience, and reliability that define this new phase of ALAT: The Evolution.
More than just music, the ALAT: The Evolution jingle represents a clear statement of intent. It signals a shift towards banking that feels natural, responsive, and in tune with the user. As customers update their app and explore ALAT: The Evolution, the jingle serves as a reminder that a better, smoother way to bank is already here. Wema Bank is not just evolving its technology; it is shaping how banking feels.
Adron Homes and Properties Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and fostering community development through its sponsorship of the 39th edition of the Lisabi Festival, one of the most revered cultural celebrations of the Egba people.
Held under the distinguished leadership of Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the festival remains a symbolic institution that celebrates the unity, resilience, and historical legacy of Egbaland. It pays tribute to the legendary warrior Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, whose courage and leadership united the Egba people and secured their freedom.
Through this strategic sponsorship, Adron Homes and Properties Limited continues to position itself not only as a leading real estate developer but also as a custodian of culture and a partner in sustaining the traditions that shape communities across Nigeria.
Speaking on the importance of the festival, Oba Gbadebo emphasized that Lisabi serves as a vital platform for preserving the Egba people’s values, traditions, and identity, while inspiring younger generations to remain connected to their cultural roots.
For Adron Homes, the partnership reflects a deliberate alignment with the socio-cultural aspirations of Egbaland. By supporting the festival, the company is contributing meaningfully to the preservation of indigenous heritage, the promotion of unity, and the celebration of a people whose influence continues to shape the cultural landscape of Abeokuta and beyond.
Notably, Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State is also home to key Adron Homes developments, including the prestigious Adron Homes Sunrise Park and Gardens located in Alabata, and Southgate Park and Gardens Estate in Alamala. These flagship estates further reinforce the company’s deep-rooted presence and long-term investment in the socio-economic growth of the region.
The 2026 edition of the Lisabi Festival, themed “Integrating Apprenticeship Training into Education: Opportunities and Challenges,” highlights the intersection between tradition and modern development, an area where Adron Homes continues to make an impact through its community-driven initiatives.
The festival will feature a vibrant lineup of cultural and social activities, including the iconic Woro procession, traditional rites, arts and crafts exhibitions, educational programmes, and community engagements, all reflecting the richness of Egba heritage.
By Oki O. Samson
In what is already generating significant grassroots political momentum across Surulere, immediate past Executive Chairman of Coker-Aguda LCDA, Hon. Rasaq Ibrahim Olamilekan, popularly known as RIO, has officially declared his intention to contest for the Lagos State House of Assembly seat representing Surulere Constituency II.
The declaration, made on Saturday, March 21, 2026, positions the youthful and widely regarded grassroots mobilizer and a party loyalist as a strong contender in the evolving political landscape of Lagos State.
At the official declaration on Saturday morning, supporters, community leaders, youth groups, and political stakeholders gathered in large numbers to witness what has been described as the formal transition of a tested local administrator into state-level legislative politics.
A Grassroots Politician with Development Credentials
Hon. Olamilekan’s entry into the race is backed by a track record that spans infrastructure renewal, social welfare interventions, education support, and community-driven security initiatives during his tenure as Council Executive Chairman.
Described by admirers as detribalized and accessible, RIO built a reputation for inclusive governance for all tribes, implementing policies and programs that cut across religious, ethnic, and political divides. His administration’s interventions ranged from road construction and drainage systems to healthcare upgrades and youth empowerment schemes.
In the area of healthcare, his government reconstructed the Orile-Iganmu Primary Healthcare Centre and facilitated multiple medical outreaches in collaboration with the Lagos State Health Management Agency, bringing free medical services closer to residents in underserved communities.
Security Advocacy, Peacebuilding and Policy Direction
A major highlight of his public service profile is his consistent advocacy for sustainable security funding and community peacebuilding. Speaking at an event marking his induction as Patron of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) in Southwest Nigeria in 2024, Hon. RIO emphasized the need for a maintenance culture in security investments.
“Buying equipment is not enough,” he noted. “We must make deliberate provisions for maintenance to ensure long-term effectiveness of support to the Nigeria Police Force.”
During his tenure, he provided operational vehicles for Police formations and institutionalized monthly security meetings with Divisional Police Officers and other community stakeholders. These measures were noted to have improved safety coordination across the LCDA and were largely applauded by the community, the Media industry.
His collaboration with security leadership, including engagements with former Lagos Commissioner of Police, CP Idowu Owohunwa, further reinforced his administration’s proactive approach to tackling crime and improving public safety infrastructure.
Beyond institutional support, Hon. Olamilekan also demonstrated a firm commitment to peace and conflict resolution at the community level. Following incidents of unrest in Orile Iganmu, a densely populated community and cultural hub hosting the National Theatre, he convened a high-level security stakeholders’ meeting involving community leaders, law enforcement agencies, and transport union representatives.
The engagement led to the inauguration of an Enquiry and Peace Taskforce Committee tasked with addressing recurring street clashes in areas such as Awe, Aloko, Alagba, and Memudu streets. The committee, working with the council’s security architecture, was mandated to develop recommendations and drive a comprehensive sensitization campaign across the LCDA.
Describing peace as a collective responsibility, the former Chairman stressed that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of security and mutual coexistence.
Social Intervention and Community Impact
Hon. RIO’s leadership gained widespread attention and commendation from political party leaders during the post-fuel subsidy removal period, when his administration rolled out sustained palliative distributions. Over a six-month period, thousands of residents comprising youths, widows, elderly citizens, and vulnerable groups benefited from food and financial support initiatives.
Unlike many local governments criticized for slow response, Coker-Aguda LCDA under Hon. RIO leadership executed multiple phases of relief distribution, reaching over 12,000 residents. The initiative was widely praised by party leaders, community stakeholders for its transparency, inclusiveness, and consistency.
Recognition and Rising Political Profile
His governance style and impact earned him several accolades, including his induction into the prestigious Trek Africa Hall of Fame as Youth Man of the Year. The recognition placed him alongside notable figures such as Secretary to State Government, Lagos State, Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin and Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan, underscoring his growing influence within Lagos’ political and governance ecosystem.
His emergence as one of the youngest local government chairmen in Lagos helped position him as a symbol of youth inclusion in governance and a bridge between established political structures and the next generation of leaders.
Legislative Vision for Surulere II
In declaring his candidacy, Hon. Olamilekan RIO pledged to take his grassroots governance experience to the legislative arena, with a focus on people-oriented laws, improved infrastructure funding, education access, and community-based security frameworks.
He emphasized that his campaign would be driven by direct engagement with constituents, policy clarity, and a commitment to delivering measurable outcomes.
With a blend of administrative experience, party loyalist, grassroots appeal, and a demonstrable commitment to peace and development, political observers believe his candidacy could significantly shape the contest for Surulere Constituency II.
As the political season gathers pace, attention will be on how his entry reshapes alignments within the constituency and influences the broader dynamics of legislative elections in Lagos State.
