Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Monday described the October 2020 EndSARS protests as one of the most challenging moments of his leadership.
Speaking in Ikeja during an interactive session with 30 fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, Sanwo-Olu reflected on the trials his administration faced during that period.
“One of my toughest moments as a leader was during the EndSARS protest,” the governor said. “We have been tested as a government, but we must continue to put the needs of Lagosians beyond our struggles as a responsive and responsible government. No bad news stays forever. Work hard to create good news and make sure people listen to it.”
Sanwo-Olu encouraged the fellows to be deliberate in their pursuit of leadership skills, emphasising the importance of intentionality in personal and professional growth.
“For you to have been selected out of 16,000 applicants means there is something of value in you,” he said. “Leadership is something we should be deliberate about, which is why we created this academy. You all are champions of good leadership. Challenge yourselves. The only limitation you have is not dreaming big enough.”
The governor also highlighted the legacy of Alhaji Lateef Jakande, describing him as the epitome of true leadership.
“I know your generation may not know who Alhaji Lateef Jakande was,” he remarked. “That is why we are still talking about him today. He epitomised leadership.”
Sanwo-Olu urged the fellows to exhibit courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
“A trait of a good leader is the ability to tolerate and endure,” he said. “That is why we need you to stay together so you will learn how to tolerate each other and make meaningful friendships. You need to be courageous and solution-oriented; don’t focus on the challenges.”
The Executive Secretary of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, Mrs Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, expressed gratitude to the governor for his time and words of encouragement.
The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, was established to develop young, change-oriented individuals passionate about shaping the future of Nigeria.
