Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, in a recent interaction with fellows of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, described the EndSARS protests of October 2020 as one of the most challenging times he has faced as a leader. Speaking in Ikeja on Monday, he shared insights into the emotional and administrative trials during that period.
“One of my toughest moments as a leader was during the EndSARS protest,” Sanwo-Olu admitted, reflecting on the intense public scrutiny and the governmental test that came with managing the crisis. He emphasized the importance of resilience and responsiveness in governance, stating, “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.”
The governor encouraged the young leaders to remain optimistic and proactive, saying, “No bad news stays forever. Work hard to create good news and make sure people listen to it.” He underscored the power of leadership in transforming narratives and situations for the better.
Addressing the fellows, who were selected from a pool of 16,000 applicants, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the significance of their selection, noting, “For you to have been selected out of 16,000 applicants means there is something of value in you.” He advocated for deliberate leadership development, saying, “Leadership is something we should be deliberate about which was why we created this academy.”
Sanwo-Olu challenged the fellows to aspire to greatness, reminding them, “You all are champions of good leadership. Challenge yourselves. The only limitation you have is not dreaming big enough.” He also paid homage to Alhaji Lateef Jakande, the inspiration behind the academy, describing him as an epitome of leadership whose legacy endures.
He further advised on the traits of effective leadership, focusing on endurance and courage, “A trait of a good leader is the ability to tolerate and endure, which 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 be solution-oriented, don’t focus on the challenges.”
Mrs. Ayisat Agbaje-Okunade, the Executive Secretary of the academy, expressed gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his address to the fellows. The Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), is dedicated to nurturing young, change-oriented individuals passionate about shaping Nigeria’s future. This session with the governor was not just a reflection on past challenges but an encouragement for future leaders to learn from history and lead with integrity and vision.
I think Gov. Sanwo-Olu handled the EndSARS protests poorly. He should have listened to the youths demands more effectively.
He did the best he could in a difficult situation. Youth demands were heard.
I dont buy it. Sanwo-Olu had his chance to shine during EndSARS and he blew it. Incompetent leadership at its finest.
You clearly havent been paying attention. Sanwo-Olu showed leadership and empathy during a difficult time.
Sanwo-Olu shouldve handled EndSARS better. His leadership was weak and indecisive. Cant believe some still support him.
You clearly dont understand the complexity of the situation. Easy to criticize from the sidelines.
I think Gov. Sanwo-Olu should have handled the EndSARS protests more decisively. He seemed indecisive and weak. Thoughts?
Gov. Sanwo-Olu needs to take more responsibility for the handling of the EndSARS protests. Accountability is key. #ControversialOpinion
I dont buy it! Sanwo-Olus handling of EndSARS was a disaster. He should have been more proactive. Thoughts?
Sanwo-Olu failed to act decisively during EndSARS. Leadership requires swift action, not passivity.
I dont buy it. Sanwo-Olus leadership during EndSARS was a disaster. He failed to protect his people. Time for a change.
I think Sanwo-Olu handled EndSARS poorly. He should have listened more to the protesters and acted faster. What do you guys think?
I think Gov. Sanwo-Olu could have handled the EndSARS protests better. His response seemed too slow and ineffective.
I think Gov. Sanwo-Olu handled EndSARS poorly. He should have listened to the protesters instead of resorting to force.
Disagree. Gov. Sanwo-Olu faced a difficult situation with no easy answers. Its not black and white.
I think Sanwo-Olu did his best during EndSARS. But what about the aftermath? Did he really address the root issues? 🤔
Sanwo-Olus response was lacking. The root issues remain unaddressed. More work needed.
I dont buy it. Sanwo-Olus handling of EndSARS was a disaster. He needs to step up or step down.
I think Gov. Sanwo-Olu handled EndSARS well, but couldve done more to address police brutality. Lets discuss!
Sanwo-Olu failed to address police brutality adequately. He needs to do more. Lets debate.