Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has been honoured with the Management and Service Award by Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, in recognition of what the organization referred to as his exceptional management and excellence in governance.
The award was presented on Sunday during the university’s 24th Undergraduate Convocation Event, which saw the graduation of about 3,400 trainees along with the conferment of degrees and rewards.
Speaking as the convocation speaker, Sanwo-Olu provided a lecture titled “Breaking Brand-new Ground: Faith, Grit and the Work of New Beginnings,” advising members of the 2026 Undergraduate NOVA Class to welcome development, integrity and lifelong knowing as they prepare for life after university.
The guv described leadership as an obligation rooted in accountability, service and the worry of God, worrying that young Nigerians should develop useful, evidence-based solutions to resolve societal challenges and contribute meaningfully to nationwide 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 know 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 need to lead with the worry of God, understanding that individuals are viewing us and that we are expected to offer good examples for younger generations.
“The world will not give you what you believe you be worthy of; it will only offer you what you need of it. I wish to encourage you to remain concentrated, versatile and dedicated to lifelong learning,” he included.
Reflecting on his administration, the governor recalled guiding Lagos State through major obstacles, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the #EndSARS demonstrations, keeping in mind that hard durations typically reveal the real character of management.
He highlighted key accomplishments of his administration over the past 7 years, consisting of investments in transport, healthcare, education, housing and innovation. According to him, the state’s budget has increased from less than 900 billion in 2019 to 4.44 trillion in 2026, while Lagos was recognised by the Dealroom Worldwide Tech Environment Index in 2025 as the world’s fastest-growing technology environment.
Sanwo-Olu also stated his administration established two new state-owned universities, is finishing what he referred to as the biggest kids’s medical facility in sub-Saharan Africa, presented digital learning efforts in public schools and provided countless real estate systems throughout the state.
The governor applauded Babcock University for its dedication to academic excellence and for producing graduates who have actually differentiated themselves in different occupations.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Miss Simisola Abore explained the academic journey as requiring but rewarding, urging her fellow graduates to maintain the worths instilled by the institution and remain committed to giving back to society.
The convocation ceremony also commemorated scholastic excellence as Miss Amosu Oluwapelumi emerged the Overall Best Full-Time Graduating Student, receiving a 10 million prize money in acknowledgment of her exceptional academic efficiency. She attributed her success to consistency, discipline and effort.