Tinubu Has Empowered Governors to Deliver, Says Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for empowering state and local governments through increased funding and fiscal reforms that enhance development across the country.

Speaking at a public lecture organised by Arewa Think Tank (ATT) to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary at the Arewa House in Kaduna, Sanwo-Olu said that under Tinubu’s administration, no governor or local government chairman can complain about a lack of funds for project execution.

According to him, federal allocations to sub-national governments have grown substantially, with state revenues rising by about 62 per cent and local government allocations increasing by 47 per cent between 2023 and 2024.

He attributed the financial boost to the President’s reform agenda, including measures promoting fiscal decentralisation and empowering lower tiers of government. He noted that the reduction of the Federal Government’s share of Value Added Tax (VAT) from 15 per cent to 10 per cent further reflects Tinubu’s commitment to grassroots development.

Sanwo-Olu also commended Tinubu’s efforts to guarantee local government autonomy, referencing the Supreme Court judgment that legally affirmed financial independence for the councils. He said the administration’s next major focus is restructuring the nation’s security architecture through the creation of state police, a move he described as “long overdue and essential.”

Highlighting the achievements of the Renewed Hope Agenda, the governor said it is a unifying and reform-driven framework aimed at building bridges across Nigeria’s diverse regions. He urged Nigerians to adopt a homegrown and community-based approach to solving national challenges, particularly in security, infrastructure, and governance.

Drawing inspiration from the ideals of Nigeria’s founding fathers, especially the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, Sanwo-Olu expressed optimism that the nation would overcome insecurity and other challenges through unity and visionary leadership.

He called on leaders to learn from the lessons of history and remain committed to policies that promote inclusive growth and sustainable national development.