Opinions
Lagos and Others; Celebrating Giant Strides of Lagos
It is no longer News that Lagos State is a trailblazer and role model for other States to emulate. The steady rollingouts of policies within the centre of excellence is worthy of emulation, making it stand out from others as the undisputed Centre of Excellence
Arguably, there are two states in Nigeria which are Lagos and Others. Although there is still more to do, however just as our people say that “when you laud the efforts of a Young man, he will be encouraged to do more” and this is exactly what Lagos needs. it has been proven beyond reasonable doubt that good leadership plays a crucial role in development. Having the right people in governance can skyrocket growth spontaneously.
Thus, Lagos State so far has been leading by example. With the Sanwo-Olu led administration, Lagos has increased it’s growth in infrastructure, empowerment and security; a necessity for development.
I will tell you a short story. I first came to Lagos in year 2019, then Sanwo-Olu was getting prepared to contest for governorship. There were very few good roads at the area where I used to live; no bridges, zero flyovers etc. it was almost as if I was in my village at Umuikaa. Now, fast forward to 2023 and every single place I knew, has taken a whole new dimension; bridges left and right, flyovers, infrastructures and to crown it all; a working train station.
This is possible not because Lagos has too much money, but because Lagos State has competent hands that are great at management of resources, revenues, tax, and advertising. Lagos sells itself better than every other State in the country and that is what has made the difference.
There is a lesson here. people in governance can borrow a thing or two from Lagos, focus on their strengths and package their respective States with better narratives. If our states would implement and enforce strategic planning, then you will see the sense of this word “Any State could be Lagos or more”.
A big congratulations to His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and every other stakeholders who have worked intentionally to establish Lagos as the Chief Head of States. We hope for more States to soar like Eko.