Lagos State Guv, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has been honoured with the Leadership and Service Award by Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, in recognition of what the organization referred to as his exceptional management and quality in governance.
The award existed on Sunday during the university’s 24th Undergraduate Convocation Ceremony, which experienced the graduation of about 3,400 trainees alongside the conferment of degrees and prizes.
Speaking as the convocation lecturer, Sanwo-Olu provided a lecture entitled “Breaking New Ground: Faith, Grit and the Work of New Beginnings,” urging members of the 2026 Undergraduate NOVA Class to embrace development, integrity and long-lasting knowing as they prepare for life after university.
The guv described leadership as a responsibility rooted in responsibility, service and the fear of God, worrying that young Nigerians must establish practical, evidence-based solutions to resolve social challenges and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“I am not a graduand. I am here because, as a leader, we require to continue to motivate young people, share our experiences with them and let them understand that life is awaiting them out there,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
“It is a humbling experience and another call for us to continue to serve. We should lead with the fear of God, understanding that people are viewing us which we are expected to supply fine examples for more youthful generations.
“The world will not give you what you think you should have; it will just provide you what you demand of it. I want to encourage you to remain focused, adaptable and devoted to long-lasting learning,” he included.
Reviewing his administration, the governor remembered steering Lagos State through major challenges, consisting of the COVID-19 pandemic and the #EndSARS protests, noting that difficult periods frequently reveal the real character of management.
He highlighted crucial achievements of his administration over the previous 7 years, including investments in transport, health care, education, housing and innovation. According to him, the state’s budget plan has actually increased from less than 900 billion in 2019 to 4.44 trillion in 2026, while Lagos was identified by the Dealroom Worldwide Tech Environment Index in 2025 as the world’s fastest-growing innovation community.
Sanwo-Olu also said his administration established 2 new state-owned universities, is completing what he described as the largest children’s medical facility in sub-Saharan Africa, presented digital knowing initiatives in public schools and delivered thousands of real estate systems throughout the state.
The guv applauded Babcock University for its commitment to academic quality and for producing graduates who have differentiated themselves in numerous occupations.
Speaking on behalf of the finishing class, Miss Simisola Abore explained the academic journey as demanding but rewarding, prompting her fellow graduates to support the values instilled by the institution and stay dedicated to giving back to society.
The convocation event also commemorated academic quality as Miss Amosu Oluwapelumi emerged the Total Best Full-Time Graduating Trainee, getting a 10 million cash prize in acknowledgment of her impressive scholastic performance. She attributed her success to consistency, discipline and hard work.