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Tinubu, First Lady, Davido Join Sanwo-Olu’s 60th Celebration
As Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu clocks 60 today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu have led tributes to the leader described as a pillar in the state’s continued transformation.
President Tinubu, in a message released through his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, praised Sanwo-Olu for his “steadfast commitment” to the progress of Lagos, describing him as a key driver of the state’s infrastructural renaissance.
He noted that Sanwo-Olu has continued many important projects that began during his (Tinubu’s) time as governor.
The President mentioned key projects like the Blue and Red rail lines and encouraged the governor to keep pushing forward on others such as the Fourth Mainland Bridge and the Freedom Way-VGC road.
“Your execution of this vision is exemplified by landmark achievements, including completing the Blue and Red Rail lines and the ongoing preparations for the Purple Line, which will serve the vital Lekki corridor,” Tinubu said.
“I urge you to sustain this trajectory by prioritising impactful projects for Lagosians, notably the long-awaited Fourth Mainland Bridge and the Freedom Way to Victoria Garden City (VGC) Road,” President Tinubu said.
The President concluded, “I also wish you continued good health, longevity, and many more years of invaluable service to Lagos State and Nigeria.”
Also sending birthday wishes was the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. She praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for his service and leadership.
“I join your family, associates, and well-wishers to celebrate you on your attainment of 60 years of a glorious life. Your dedication to service has set you apart as an exemplary leader,” the First Lady wrote.
“As you mark this special day, may you be blessed with more wisdom, strength, and divine health to fulfill your God-ordained purpose, and I wish you many more years of success on earth.”
The Executive Chairman of Epe Local Government, Surah O. Animashaun, also wished him a happy birthday in an Instagram post where she praised his leadership and the T.H.E.M.E.S.+ programme, which she claimed has helped improve many parts of Lagos, such as traffic, health, education, entertainment, and security.
“Your Excellency, your courage in decision-making, compassion for the people, and unwavering dedication to progress are hallmarks of true statesmanship. Under your leadership, Lagos has remained a beacon of growth, innovation, and resilience, and we are proud to be part of the journey you are leading with such clarity and conviction,” she wrote.
Governor Sanwo-Olu shared his thoughts on reaching 60, tweeting, “Today, I turn 60. Sixty years of experiences, lessons, and blessings. I woke up this morning feeling grateful, not just for the years, but for the journey itself.
“Today is a moment to pause and reflect. I’ve learned that public service is one of the highest callings. It’s not always easy, but it’s deeply fulfilling. Every day, I wake up knowing there’s more to do, more to give, more to build.
“Public service teaches you a great deal. It teaches patience. It teaches you how to listen, and how to keep going even when the path is difficult. I’m still learning. I’m always learning.
“So today, I’m thankful, for life, for the trust of Lagosians, the people I serve, and for the opportunity to keep working toward something greater than myself.”
Also, popular singer Davido sent a video shout-out to Governor Sanwo-Olu. In the message, Davido greeted Lagosians and praised the governor for his work, saying, “Hello my people, what’s up? It is your boy Davido. I want to say a big happy 60th birthday to our governor, Governor Sanwo-Olu. We appreciate you. Everything you do for Lagos, we see it all the time. You know I love you, man. Have fun, enjoy your day, and live your life.”
Sanwo-Olu’s deputy governor, Obafemi Hamzat, also celebrated his principal on X, where he wrote, “Happy birthday to an exceptional leader, visionary, my brother and partner in duty, Governor @jidesanwoolu. Your drive for good governance and inclusive growth sets the bar high. I wish you continued wisdom and strength in service to our state. Happy birthday MG.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu started his political career in 2003 as a special adviser to the Deputy Governor of Lagos State. He later became Acting Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget.
In 2007, he was appointed Commissioner for Commerce and Industry by Governor Bola Tinubu. After that, he served as Commissioner for Establishments, Training, and Pensions under Governor Babatunde Fashola.
In 2016, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode made him Managing Director and CEO of the Lagos State Development and Property Corporation.
He also helped start important projects like the Lagos Security Trust Fund, LAGBUS transportation system, and the Lagos Command and Control Centre in Ikeja.
Sanwo-Olu was elected governor in 2019 under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
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The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has approved the deployment of Commissioners of Police to State Commands and strategic formations across the country.
The deployment follows the approval of his recommendations by the Police Service Commission (PSC).
According to a statement on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the deployment is aimed at strengthening operational effectiveness, enhancing leadership across Commands and formations, and consolidating the ongoing reform and repositioning of the Nigeria Police Force.
Naija News reports that the Inspector-General of Police charged the affected senior officers to bring their wealth of experience to bear in their new assignments by strengthening intelligence-led policing, enhancing operational effectiveness, promoting professionalism, and deepening community engagement in line with the vision of the Force.
He also urged them to remain steadfast in safeguarding lives and property while upholding the highest standards of discipline, accountability, and service delivery.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to strategic personnel deployments as a key component of its ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening internal capacity, and delivering more effective policing services to all Nigerians,” the statement concluded.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Thursday commenced a two-week leave — his first since assuming office over three years ago.
According to a statement issued by the media aide to the vice-president, Stanley Nkwocha, during the leave, the vice-president will devote time to study, reflect and do intellectual renewal as part of efforts to strengthen his capacity for continued service to the nation.
The leave offers Shettima an opportunity to review the administration’s ongoing programmes, deepen his understanding of emerging national and global policy issues, and prepare for the responsibilities ahead as the Federal Government intensifies the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, the vice-president, the release stated, has remained actively engaged in the coordination and supervision of several strategic government initiatives, particularly in economic development, food security, humanitarian affairs, digital transformation, job creation and regional cooperation.
He has consistently chaired the monthly National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, which brings together the governors of the 36 states, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and other relevant public officials to deliberate on policies affecting the economy and the welfare of Nigerians.
Beyond his responsibilities within the country, Shettima has represented President Bola Tinubu at major international and regional engagements, advancing Nigeria’s position on economic integration, peace and security, climate action, investment and sustainable development. ExecutiveBranch
He remains deeply committed to the ideals of loyalty, duty and service that have defined his role in the administration, as well as to supporting President Tinubu’s efforts to build a more secure, productive and prosperous Nigeria.
The vice-president will return to office at the end of the two-week leave period and resume his official responsibilities with renewed energy and dedication to the service of the nation.
Rwanda has declared Friday, August 7, 2026, a public holiday to mark Umuganura Day, a national harvest festival with roots stretching back to pre-colonial times.
Legit.ng reports that the announcement came from the Ministry of Public Service and Labour on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, and applies to workers across all sectors, both public and private.
The ministry said in its official statement:
“The Ministry of Public Service and Labour informs all employers and employees in both public and private sectors that Friday, August 7, 2026, will be a public holiday in celebration of Umuganura Day.”
What is Umuganura Day?
Umuganura is one of Rwanda’s most significant cultural observances. The festival gives thanks to God and ancestors for the bounty of the land and marks the collective effort of communities in cultivating it. Despite being called a harvest festival, it is observed before the harvest begins, a tradition rooted in the practice of elders tasting the fruits of the new season before any family member is permitted to do so.
The celebration starts within individual families and then expands into wider community gatherings where traditional foods, crafts, and performances are shared. Rwandan restaurants and cultural centres, both at home and abroad, typically mark the occasion with special offerings tied to the country’s culinary heritage.
Agriculture sits at the heart of why the day carries such weight. About 80% of Rwanda’s labour force is engaged in farming activities, which contribute roughly 40% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product. Tea and coffee are the country’s most important cash crops, making up around 80% of its agricultural exports.
History of Umuganura festival
Umuganura has survived considerable upheaval. Germany colonised Rwanda in 1899 as part of German East Africa, and Belgium took control in 1916 during World War I. The prolonged period of colonial rule disrupted the festival, and it went uncelebrated for many years. Rwanda gained independence in July 1962, and the country gradually rebuilt its national identity in the decades that followed.
Despite its ancient origins, Umuganura was only formally recognised as a public holiday in 2011. Beyond its cultural significance, the day also serves as an occasion to reflect on the country’s yearly achievements across the sectors that drive national development.
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