Tinubu gave me my first big break in public service, says Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has credited President Bola Tinubu with playing a pivotal role in shaping his leadership journey, describing his first appointment in public service under Tinubu’s administration as the break that launched his career.

Speaking at the Lagos Leadership Summit on Wednesday, held at Konga Place, Lekki, Sanwo-Olu told a gathering of young Nigerians that competence in smaller roles often paves the way for greater leadership opportunities.

“Your capacity to deliver on a set of simple tasks entrusted to you in smaller roles can serve as the foundation for greater leadership exploits,” he said.

Recounting his early days in public service, Sanwo-Olu explained how he was appointed Special Adviser on Economic Matters by then-Governor Tinubu in 2002 — a move that, according to him, unlocked several doors.

“That appointment was my first big break. I was given the chance to serve in key sectors like Transportation, Environment, Public Safety, and Education. Each role challenged me, and I gave it my all,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He described how the assignments exposed him to international engagements, strategic policy discussions, and leadership development under Tinubu’s watch.

“When I handled Transportation, I pushed the team to exceed expectations. In revenue generation, we improved figures and built staff capacity. Every role stretched me,” he noted.

Sanwo-Olu added that he never undertook those responsibilities with personal gain in mind but focused on impact.

He said those formative experiences equipped him to take on larger roles, eventually leading to his current position as Governor.

He also shared how he continued to serve under the succeeding administration of former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, who also spoke at the event.

Fashola, delivering his remarks on the summit’s theme, “Transformative Leadership: Developing Responsive, Adaptive and Inclusive Models,” emphasized the need for diversity and inclusion in governance.

He called for genuine efforts to build unity and ensure citizens feel heard and represented.

He said: “Leaders must build coalitions of unity and belonging. What matters is whether the majority perceive that their leader is making genuine efforts not to exclude or marginalise anyone.”