Introduction

Sanwo-Olu recently shared a reflection on how his deputy Obafemi Hamzat voluntarily stepped down from the 2018 Lagos governorship race to pave the way for his own candidacy. The gesture described as rare selflessness set the tone for a seven-year partnership defined by unity and shared vision.

What Happened

In September 2018 Hamzat who had over a decade of public service and strong backing was urged by party leaders to withdraw from the governorship primary in favor of Sanwo-Olu. Despite having the experience and capacity to win Hamzat complied ending his bid just five weeks before agreeing to serve as running mate. He also encouraged his supporters to back Sanwo-Olu in the APC primary marking a decisive moment in Lagos politics.

Why This Matters

The 2018 gesture has come to symbolize the trust and loyalty defining the Sanwo-Olu-Hamzat administration. Since taking office in 2019 the governor has emphasized he has never questioned the deputy governor commitment pointing to 2711 days of seamless collaboration. Hamzats contributions span major infrastructure including the Blue and Red rail lines the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge as well as the COVID-19 response and digital government reforms. His engineering background and extensive public service history including roles under former governors Tinubu and Fashola underscore a legacy of disciplined service.

Key Takeaways

  • Hamzat abandoned his 2018 governorship ambition at the request of party leaders to support Sanwo-Olu candidacy.
  • The deputy governor has maintained an unbroken record of loyalty throughout seven years in office.
  • Hamzat has overseen major infrastructure projects including rail lines the Lekki Deep Sea Port and the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge.
  • His engineering expertise and public service record span roles under three Lagos state governors.
  • The pair relay system philosophy frames their administration as continuous purposeful leadership.

Conclusion

Sanwo-Olu recounting of Hamzats 2018 decision highlights a partnership built on mutual respect and shared purpose. As Hamzat rolls out his Lagos PROMISE manifesto ahead of the 2027 governorship election the governor frames the moment not as a one-time act of sacrifice but as the continuation of a 27-year leadership tradition in Lagos. With major projects underway and a master plan extending to 2052 the message is clear Lagos moves forward when its leaders run together never standing still.