64th Independence: We cannot afford to lose faith, says Sanwo-Olu

As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence anniversary, Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday said the path ahead of the country “may seem uncertain”, but urged Nigerians “cannot afford to lose faith.”

Mentioning “the journey has been difficult”, Sanwo-Olu charged the citizens, particularly Lagos residents, to recommit themselves to the values that unite the nation: hard work, resilience, and a shared belief in a brighter tomorrow.

Sanwo-Olu spoke during the 64th Independence Day celebration of Nigeria, held at Lagos House, Marina.

The governor, who expressed his commitment to ensuring that Lagos continues to be a beacon of hope, not just for Nigerians but for Africa and the world, implored Nigerians to support and work with the President Bola Tinubu-led government in addressing the challenges facing the country.

He said, “On this 64th Independence Anniversary, let us recommit ourselves to the values that unite us: hard work, resilience, and a shared belief in a brighter tomorrow. Let us rise above our differences and distrust. Lagos thrives when we all thrive, when we come together as one people, one city, one Nigeria.

“My fellow Lagosians, this is not just a time for celebration, but for renewed commitment. We are in this together. I will continue to serve with all my heart, but I need your partnership, trust, and hope. We can make Lagos a model for Nigeria — a place where every citizen feels valued, secure, and empowered.”

Sanwo-Olu also charged Lagos residents to rise and show the world the strength of unity and the power of shared vision.

“In Lagos, we have always been trailblazers. We lead by example, setting the pace in innovation, commerce, and cultural expression. As your governor, my commitment is to ensure that Lagos continues to be a beacon of hope, not just for Nigerians but for Africa and the world.

“But I cannot do this alone. No government can. We need your trust. And I know trust is earned through action, not words. That is why, in the coming months, my administration will be more transparent than ever before. We will strengthen channels of communication with you, the people. We will make our plans and progress known, and we will listen—truly listen—to your concerns, feedback, and ideas.

“We are not just building roads, schools, and hospitals—we are building relationships. Relationships built on mutual respect, accountability, and partnership.

“Insecurity and economic hardship are real issues that demand real solutions, and we are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and prosperity of every Lagosian. We are investing in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and technology, but we are also investing in you. In your future. In your children’s future.”

Sanwo-Olu, who acknowledged the various challenges in the country, such as insecurity, economic hardship, and distrust in leadership, implored people not to lose hope, saying the government is committed to building a Lagos and a Nigeria that fulfil the dreams of every citizen.

He said, “We are a state of over 20 million dreams, a melting pot of cultures, talents, and aspirations. When the world looks at Lagos, it sees Nigeria’s brightest hope, its most vibrant energy. And that is why, despite the challenges we face as a nation, I stand before you with confidence that together, we can build a Lagos and a Nigeria that fulfil the dreams of every citizen.

“We cannot afford to lose faith. Yes, the journey has been difficult, and the path ahead may seem uncertain. But we have a choice: to give in to despair or to believe in our power to create change. I choose to believe in us—the people of Lagos.

“To the youth of Lagos, I hear you. I see you. Your energy, your passion, and your desire for a better Nigeria are not in vain. You are not just the future; you are the present. We need your ideas, innovations, and leadership. Together, we will create opportunities where there seem to be none. We will build a Lagos that you can be proud of, where your talents are celebrated and rewarded.

“To our elders, we owe you a debt of gratitude for the sacrifices you’ve made in building this city. We will honor that sacrifice by ensuring that Lagos remains a place of opportunity, where your children and grandchildren can thrive.”

During the ceremony attended also by the First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hazmat, members of the State Executive Council, Body of Permanent Secretaries, head of security agencies, traditional, religious, and political leaders; pupils from public schools; and voluntary organisations, among others; prayers were offered for Nigeria.