Sanwo-Olu charges leaders on good governance, accountability

The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has stated that leaders must prioritise good governance, uphold transparency and ensure accountability in all their actions to build a lasting and positive legacy.

The governor said this at the London Business School Worldwide Alumni Celebration 2024 Nigeria, themed ‘Building a Legacy in Nigeria: Turning Challenges into Opportunities’, held recently in Lagos.

According to the governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperative Stream and Investments, Mrs Folashade  Medeben, transparency and accountability are essential pillars, without which leadership cannot truly serve or uplift communities.

“This year’s theme, ‘Building a Legacy in Nigeria: Turning Challenges into Opportunities’, encourages us to reflect on our shared responsibilities as leaders in shaping Nigeria’s future. As we celebrate the London Business School’s milestones, we also honour the leadership, innovation, and excellence that define its alumni,” he declared.

Sanwo-Olu emphasised that LBS had nurtured leaders for 60 years who excel in their careers and uplift communities, adding that the vibrant alumni network in Nigeria demonstrated that impactful success was achievable in finance, technology, healthcare, and public service despite challenges.

“Nigeria is a land of vast opportunities, yet it faces significant challenges. As we navigate economic uncertainties, infrastructure deficits and social disparities, we must remember that these challenges are not dead ends. Rather, they are catalysts for innovation, growth and transformation,” the governor stated.

Sanwo-Olu noted that Lagos State had experienced how transforming challenges into opportunities could fuel development.

“Our experience shows that with the right vision, strategic leadership and effective collaboration, every challenge can be an opportunity to lay down a legacy that will outlast us. At the core of transforming challenges into opportunities is the commitment to economic growth,” he mentioned.

He added that from establishing special economic zones to investments in digital infrastructure, the government’s focus had been on building a diversified economy that could weather global and local disruptions.

However, Sanwo-Olu stressed that the government alone cannot drive sustainable economic growth, noting that it required the active participation of the private sector and robust partnerships.

According to the governor, this is where the LBS alumni community plays a critical role as industry leaders.

Also, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr Jonny Baxter, said, “This highlights one of the reasons why we, at the British High Commission and the British government, take such pride in our education system. In Nigeria especially, we are proud of the close ties we share with Nigerians through educational connections. We hope that people use the knowledge gained to enrich and build their communities.

“For me, the purpose of any education is to create a legacy, and we always hope that people apply the knowledge they gain to their communities, enriching and building upon their home context. In a country like Nigeria, the opportunities look endless. And what I have seen of Nigeria is that Nigerians are good at finding those opportunities and exploring them.”

Earlier, in his opening remarks, the President of the London Business School Alumni Club Nigeria, Mr Akintayo Sanwo-Olu, mentioned that the group was marking 60 years of the London Business School’s legacy in shaping leaders, driving innovation, and fostering a global network that extends to every corner of the business world.

“I am proud to see how the community continues to thrive. Our alumni are a force for change, making a lasting impact in industries across the globe.

 “We are celebrating a future where our shared experiences and education empower us to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing our businesses, economies and societies.

 “This event is a testament to the strength of our global alumni community. Each one of us carries a piece of London Business School’s excellence with us. And no matter where our careers take us, we will continue to shine that light.”