Ranking Nigerian Governors; Sep/Oct 2024: Sanwo-Olu’s ‘unspoken challenge’ and the wait for worthy imitators

Our Model

Ripples Nigeria’s Ranking Nigerian Governors is a monthly publication that has been assessing the performance of Nigerian governors since August 2019. As we return for the month of September, our goal remains to provide a thorough evaluation of the policy decisions, actions, and impacts of state governors on their residents, illuminating both their successes and shortcomings.

Initially, we highlighted the Top 5 and Bottom 5 governors each month. However, given the declining standards of governance across the nation, we have refined our approach to emphasize notable achievements and failures, offering a comprehensive overview of governance quality.

We recognize the significant challenges governors face, including limited resources and rising financial pressures. Yet, we maintain that effective leadership can leverage Nigeria’s abundant natural and human resources to foster development.

A Look Back

In our last publication, we examined remarks from Bauchi Governor, Bala Mohammed, and Plateau Governor, Caleb Muftwang, during the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests, shedding light on the shortcomings of Nigeria’s state leaders in addressing the pressing hunger and economic crises.

Governor Mohammed attributed the current hunger crisis to the economic policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, while Governor Muftwang noted that despite increased revenue from the FAAC, the actual value was diminished by the Naira’s depreciation.

These statements, we reckoned, illustrated a concerning trend among state governors, often portrayed as reliant on federal support without taking proactive steps to grow their economies and enhance their revenue streams.

In Focus

In the current publication, we beam our searchlight on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, who, in our reckoning, has made significant strides in his administration, positioning the state as a beacon of development and business opportunity in Nigeria.

We acknowledge that his leadership has been characterized by strategic initiatives that aim to enhance infrastructure, boost economic growth, and improve the overall quality of life for residents.

Landmark Agreements in China

During a recent trade mission to China, Governor Sanwo-Olu signed six landmark agreements that underscore his commitment to attracting foreign investment and fostering economic collaboration. These agreements span various sectors, including technology, infrastructure, and housing. They not only promise to inject substantial capital into the Lagos economy, but also aim to enhance the state’s technological capabilities and infrastructure development, vital for supporting its growing population and economy.

READ ALSO: Ranking Nigerian Governors; August, 2024: ‘Feeding bottle federalism’ back in focus as Muftwang, Mohammed shirk responsibility

Infrastructure Development: Lekki-Epe Bridge

One of the hallmark projects under Sanwo-Olu’s administration is the construction of the Lekki-Epe Bridge. This critical infrastructure aims to alleviate traffic congestion in one of Lagos’s most rapidly developing areas. By improving connectivity between the Lekki and Epe areas, the bridge is expected to enhance the movement of people and goods, thereby facilitating smoother business operations and improving access to essential services. The project represents a significant investment in the state’s infrastructure, aligning with the administration’s broader goal of creating a world-class transport network.

Commencement of Lagos Red Line Train Services

Another pivotal achievement is the commencement of the Lagos Red Line train services. This development is a game changer for public transportation in the state, promising to reduce travel time significantly and ease the burden of traffic on Lagos roads. By providing a reliable alternative to road transport, the Red Line is set to improve daily commute for millions of Lagosians. Furthermore, it is anticipated to boost economic activities by connecting key commercial hubs, enhancing accessibility for businesses and investors.

Lagos: The World’s Preferred Destination for Business Travel

In a remarkable feat, Lagos has been declared the number one destination for business travel globally, surpassing other renowned cities. This achievement is a direct result of Sanwo-Olu’s administration’s focus on improving the business environment. Initiatives such as the establishment of the Lagos State Economic and Investment Summit (LSEIS) and ongoing efforts to streamline regulatory processes have made Lagos an attractive destination for business travellers.

By enhancing infrastructure, fostering a conducive environment for investment, and promoting tourism, Sanwo-Olu’s administration has successfully positioned Lagos as a premier business hub. This recognition not only boosts the state’s image on the global stage but also has the potential to attract further investments and create job opportunities for residents.

In our opinion, Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has demonstrated a clear vision for Lagos State, focusing on transformative infrastructure projects and strategic international partnerships. Through initiatives like the Lekki-Epe Bridge, the Lagos Red Line, and significant agreements signed in China, he is paving the way for a more connected, accessible, and economically vibrant Lagos.

As the state continues to earn accolades for its business-friendly environment, Sanwo-Olu’s leadership is a testament to the potential for positive change within Nigerian governance, something other state governors in the country should emulate!

We must, however, note that it is not all bliss for the Sanwo-Olu administration. There are widespread complaints about poor inner city roads in desperate need of rehabilitation. The Governor must urgently address this. Improvements can also be made in areas of welfare and security, especially given the desperate times.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now