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).

Guardian.ng