The Centre of Excellence Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, has urged the South-West region to take the lead in steering Nigeria’s rebirth through unity, shared vision, and genuine collaboration among its people and governments.
He made the call in Akure during the South-West Citizen–Government Engagement Summit, which drew governors, traditional rulers, and citizens from across the region.
Sanwo-Olu said the creation of the South-West Development Commission, championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and backed by the National Assembly, provides a strong framework for coordinated regional progress, similar to what the Western Region achieved under Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
According to him, the reforms introduced under President Tinubu’s leadership are helping to restore confidence in the Nigerian economy, attract investments, and build optimism for a brighter future.
The governor also highlighted major Lagos projects such as the 4th Mainland Bridge, the Green Line, and the Lekki International Airport, noting that renewed investor trust would fast-track their completion and impact lives across the state.
Sanwo-Olu called on the people of the South-West to rekindle the spirit of courage and creativity that once defined the region, saying that the time has come for it to lead Nigeria’s renewal.
The statement read: “Today, I joined fellow Governors, traditional rulers, and citizens in Akure for the South-West Citizen–Government Engagement Summit.
“It is time for the South-West to once again lead Nigeria’s renewal, through unity, shared vision, and real collaboration across our states and communities.
“With the new South-West Development Commission, championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and supported by the National Assembly, we now have a platform to plan and deliver the kind of regional progress that once defined the Western Region under Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is regaining confidence and stability. The reforms are working, the economy is growing, investment is returning, and the future is brighter.
“For us in Lagos, this progress opens new doors for projects like the 4th Mainland Bridge, the Green Line, and the Lekki International Airport. With stronger investor confidence, these initiatives will transform lives and strengthen our economy.
“The South-West can, and must, lead Nigeria’s rebirth. The spirit of innovation and courage that shaped our past still lives in us today, and together, we will rise to this moment.”
