Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Sunday swore in newly elected chairmen and vice chairmen across all 57 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), urging them to embrace inclusive leadership, prioritize public welfare, and make responsible use of their newly affirmed autonomy.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony held at the Sports Ground, Lagos House in Ikeja, the governor emphasized that their election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the July 12, 2025 council polls was not just a political victory, but a solemn call to selfless service.
“Leadership must not be driven by ambition but by service,” Sanwo-Olu stated. “The people have placed in your hands not just votes, but their dreams.”
The governor outlined the expectations of Lagosians: improved infrastructure, safer streets, functional healthcare centres, better schools, thriving markets, youth development, environmental sanitation, and grassroots security.
He warned that the success of their tenure would not be judged by rhetoric but by tangible results.
“Your performance will be measured not by the eloquence of your speeches, but by the visibility of your actions,” he said.
Local Government Autonomy and Accountability
Governor Sanwo-Olu reminded the newly inaugurated council bosses that they now operate under a new constitutional reality true local government autonomy, both fiscally and administratively, recently upheld by the Supreme Court.
“You now have direct access to your council’s funds. With that comes direct accountability. No excuses. No finger pointing. The buck now stops with you,” the governor declared.
He called on the officials to use this autonomy wisely and with transparency, warning that underperformance and abuse of office would not be tolerated.
“Leadership must never be about personal gain; it must be about public impact,” he said, assuring them of state government’s full support, but also strict oversight.
THEMES+ Agenda at the Grassroots
Governor Sanwo-Olu charged the council executives to domesticate the state’s THEMES+ development agenda in their respective councils. The acronym stands for Transportation, Health, Education, Environment, Security, and Social Inclusion, with the “+” representing technology, youth engagement, and innovation.
He emphasized that the impact of governance must be felt across all communities, especially in underserved and riverine areas.
“Let our rural communities feel the presence of government. Let our THEMES+ agenda come alive in your domains,” he said.
Commitment to Grassroots Democracy
In his remarks, Lagos State Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Hon. Bolaji Kayode Robert, described the peaceful and credible elections as a testament to the people’s trust in the newly elected officials and the APC’s leadership at the grassroots.
He commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for ensuring a transparent electoral process, and called on the chairmen to deliver service that truly reflects the will of the electorate.
Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Hon. Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, pledged loyalty to the party’s values and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.
“We are committed to delivering impactful governance and ensuring development reaches every community under our jurisdiction,” Olowa said.
Attendees and Stakeholders
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC); Lagos State Executive Council; party stalwarts; traditional rulers; religious leaders; and family members of the new officeholders.
With this inauguration, Lagos State sets the stage for a renewed phase of governance at the grassroots one where power, responsibility, and accountability must now walk hand-in-hand.
