Lagos Deputy Governor and APC governorship candidate, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, says the primary responsibility of a governor is to ensure that government policies and projects directly improve the quality of life of residents. He described the governor as the captain of a team who aligns expertise with a clear vision to deliver meaningful outcomes.
Hamzat said the Sanwo-Olu administration is focused on completing major ongoing projects before leaving office, including the Blue Line Rail extension to Okokomaiko and the integration of the Blue and Red rail lines. He stressed that governance is a continuum guided by the state’s long-term development master plan.
On his governorship agenda, Hamzat revealed that his manifesto, currently being streamlined after extensive consultations, prioritises making Lagos more organised, predictable and secure. He said improving everyday living conditions, rather than merely executing large infrastructure projects, would be the focus of his administration.
He identified security as a major priority, promising to strengthen existing surveillance infrastructure and support the establishment of state police. According to him, locally recruited officers possess community knowledge that would improve crime prevention and response across the state.
Addressing flooding, Hamzat explained that Lagos’ geography, climate change and tidal movements contribute significantly to recurring floods. He argued that stricter physical planning, proper drainage maintenance and improved environmental management are essential to reducing flood risks.
On waste management, he said the long-term solution lies in converting waste into economic resources rather than relying solely on landfills. He disclosed that the state is investing in waste-to-resource facilities and transfer-loading stations to reduce landfill pressure and improve operational efficiency.
Responding to concerns about Lagos’ finances, Hamzat argued that while the state generates significant revenue, its infrastructure demands far exceed available resources. He defended responsible borrowing for major developmental projects, saying such investments are necessary to sustain economic growth and improve public services.
Hamzat also reaffirmed support for a special status for Lagos, describing it as an economic necessity given the state’s unique responsibilities. He outlined plans to strengthen food logistics through partnerships with farming states, improve agricultural supply chains and enhance fisheries, while acknowledging that Lagos lacks sufficient land for large-scale crop production.
