Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Thursday celebrated his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, on the occasion of his 60th birthday, highlighting the strong partnership and brotherhood that has characterized their working relationship. The governor, speaking at a prayer session held in honor of Dr. Hamzat at the Lagos Community Central Mosque Multi-Purpose Hall in Ikeja, expressed profound gratitude for Hamzat’s unwavering support over the years.
Sanwo-Olu described Dr. Hamzat as a trusted ally and reliable work partner, underscoring how their synergy has been crucial to the smooth governance of the state. “Hamzat and I have never had a disagreement that escalated into negativity,” Sanwo-Olu stated, emphasizing their harmonious working relationship. “He has been very supportive, and I could not have asked for a better brother or partner in service.”
The governor, surrounded by members of his cabinet, legislative representatives, and judiciary officials, extended heartfelt thanks to the deputy governor. “On behalf of my darling wife, my children, the entire cabinet, and members of the Lagos State Government, we thank God for your life and are proud to say that you are one of our very best,” he remarked, speaking warmly of Hamzat’s contributions to the state.
In his response, Dr. Hamzat expressed deep appreciation for the honor and praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to the development of Lagos. He highlighted the governor’s commitment to key infrastructure projects, such as the construction of the Blue and Red line rail networks and the repair of the iconic Third Mainland Bridge. Hamzat recalled Sanwo-Olu’s resolve to tackle the repair of the bridge, even when funding challenges arose, as a testament to the governor’s unwavering passion for the state’s progress.
“The governor came to me and said, ‘This Third Mainland Bridge, we must repair it.’ Despite concerns about funding, he insisted that we find the resources, demonstrating the passion he brings to the job,” Hamzat said. He also credited Sanwo-Olu with spearheading projects that the federal government had not supported, emphasizing the governor’s determination to push through difficulties for the sake of Lagos’ development.
The birthday celebration drew a crowd of well-wishers, including the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa. Obasa, in a statement delivered through his Chief Press Secretary, Eromosele Ebhomele, commended Dr. Hamzat’s commitment to the growth of Lagos, describing him as a “seasoned administrator” and a trusted partner in Lagos’ development agenda. Obasa lauded the close working relationship between Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu, and other arms of government, which he credited with driving the state’s progress.
Spiritual leaders were also present to honor Dr. Hamzat’s milestone birthday. The Grand Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Sulaimon Abu-Nollah, led the opening prayer, while Bishop S.T.V Adegbite, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos chapter, delivered a goodwill message. Both leaders highlighted the importance of strong leadership and unity in fostering the continued growth of Lagos.
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Dr. Hamzat expressed gratitude to his family, friends, and colleagues for their support throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in achieving success. As Lagos continues to develop under the leadership of Sanwo-Olu and Hamzat, the duo’s collaboration remains a model for governance rooted in partnership and shared vision.
