The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for Lagos State, Archbishop Stephen Adegbite, has lauded the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for its commitment to an inclusive governance model during the first 100 days of his second term. Governor Sanwo-Olu was inaugurated for his second term on May 29.
Adegbite, while rallying support for the Sanwo-Olu administration, emphasised that it had been a mutually beneficial situation for all residents of the state. He noted that Governor Sanwo-Olu had consistently worked to ensure peaceful coexistence among the state’s residents, preserving religious harmony in Lagos, which has long been a model of interfaith and interethnic unity.
Regardless of faith, Adegbite highlighted that the administration had been inclusive in various aspects, including social welfare, appointments, security, and the distribution of palliatives. He cited the recent resolution of the rejection of the governor’s 17 commissioner-nominees by the state assembly as evidence of Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to an all-inclusive approach. With the intervention of the state’s Governor’s Advisory Council, the situation was amicably resolved, and new commissioners, more aligned with residents’ expectations, are set to be inaugurated soon.
Wale Ojo-David, the Pastor-in-Charge of Harvest Mission Centre, emphasised that the enduring interfaith harmony had paved the way for even development in the state. He noted that Lagos had always been characterised by its diverse religious and ethnic makeup, and this sustained harmony had contributed significantly to the state’s socioeconomic development.
Ojo-David called on the administration to allocate resources towards youth empowerment to engage the younger population in further development initiatives.
Dr. Tajudeen Adebayo, the Chief Imam of Falomo Mosque, commended the administration’s efforts in fostering faith harmony in the state. He praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for seeking input from stakeholders in governing the state and promoting peace and security through an all-inclusive approach.
Adebayo expressed optimism that the governor’s second term would usher in more people-oriented governance, as evident from his actions and body language.
It’s worth noting that in August, Lagos State, alongside other states in the southwest, declared a work-free day to allow traditional worshippers to celebrate their festival (Isese), demonstrating the government’s commitment to religious inclusivity.
