Yesterday, the Lagos Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat marked his 60th birthday and it was nothing short of a celebration of loyalty, perseverance, and transformational leadership. A man often content to work quietly behind the scenes, Hamzat’s influence on the infrastructural and technological development of Lagos is undeniable, making him one of the state’s most impactful public servants in recent history.
Born on September 19, 1964, into the esteemed Hamzat family, with his father serving as the Olu of Afowowa Sogaade and a former Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, public service was woven into the fabric of Dr. Hamzat’s life from an early age. His academic brilliance took him from Nigeria to the United Kingdom, where he earned a Ph.D. in System Process Engineering from Cranfield University, completing his doctorate in record time. This academic achievement laid the groundwork for his future career, bridging technology with governance to modernize Lagos State’s infrastructure.
Before delving into politics, Dr. Hamzat excelled in the private sector, holding key positions in major organizations like Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley. His return to Nigeria was driven by a commitment to serve, beginning with his appointment as Commissioner for Science and Technology under Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2005. During his tenure, Hamzat revolutionized the state’s data systems, eliminating inefficiencies and paving the way for a technology-driven Lagos.
His next role, as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, saw the execution of landmark projects such as the Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge and the ongoing expansion of the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, helping to address Lagos’ perennial traffic and urban planning challenges. These achievements remain etched in the city’s evolving landscape, making Dr. Hamzat synonymous with the city’s growth.
Despite his towering contributions, Dr. Hamzat’s political journey hasn’t always been smooth. Twice he eyed the governorship of Lagos but stepped aside to support his colleagues, demonstrating a rare blend of humility and political maturity. His partnership with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu since 2019 has been widely celebrated, with many referring to them as the “two-man governor” team, a testament to the critical role Hamzat plays in policy formulation and execution.
In a political climate where deputy governors are often sidelined, Hamzat stands as a beacon of efficiency and loyalty. His pragmatic approach and keen eye for detail have made him a crucial ally in the success of Lagos’ THEMES agenda, focusing on traffic management, health, and education. This collaborative governance model has allowed Lagos to maintain its position as a hub of innovation and development.
At 60, Dr. Hamzat shows no signs of slowing down. His quiet, results-driven approach has endeared him to many, with colleagues and political observers praising his intellect, integrity, and work ethic. As Lagos continues its upward trajectory, it is clear that Hamzat’s legacy will be deeply intertwined with the city’s success story.
Dr. Hamzat’s life exemplifies the importance of service, sacrifice, and strategic thinking in governance. As he enters this new chapter, Lagosians can expect him to continue leading with the same sense of purpose and dedication that has characterized his career for decades.
