Babcock University Honours Sanwo-Olu with Leadership Award, Best Graduating Student Receives N10m

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has been honoured with the Leadership and Service Award by Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, in recognition of what the institution described as his outstanding leadership and excellence in governance.

The award was presented on Sunday during the university’s 24th Undergraduate Convocation Ceremony, which witnessed the graduation of about 3,400 students alongside the conferment of degrees and prizes.

Speaking as the convocation lecturer, Sanwo-Olu delivered a lecture titled “Breaking New Ground: Faith, Grit and the Work of New Beginnings,” urging members of the 2026 Undergraduate NOVA Class to embrace innovation, integrity and lifelong learning as they prepare for life after university.

The governor described leadership as a responsibility rooted in accountability, service and the fear of God, stressing that young Nigerians must develop practical, evidence-based solutions to address societal challenges and contribute meaningfully to national development.

“I am not a graduand. I am here because, as a leader, we need to continue to encourage young people, share our experiences with them and let them know that life is waiting for them out there,” Sanwo-Olu said.

“It is a humbling experience and another call for us to continue to serve. We must lead with the fear of God, understanding that people are watching us and that we are expected to provide good examples for younger generations.

“The world will not give you what you believe you deserve; it will only give you what you demand of it. I want to encourage you to remain focused, adaptable and committed to lifelong learning,” he added.

Reflecting on his administration, the governor recalled steering Lagos State through major challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the #EndSARS protests, noting that difficult periods often reveal the true character of leadership.

He highlighted key achievements of his administration over the past seven years, including investments in transportation, healthcare, education, housing and technology. According to him, the state’s budget has increased from less than ₦900 billion in 2019 to ₦4.44 trillion in 2026, while Lagos was recognised by the Dealroom Global Tech Ecosystem Index in 2025 as the world’s fastest-growing technology ecosystem.

Sanwo-Olu also said his administration established two new state-owned universities, is completing what he described as the largest children’s hospital in sub-Saharan Africa, introduced digital learning initiatives in public schools and delivered thousands of housing units across the state.

The governor commended Babcock University for its commitment to academic excellence and for producing graduates who have distinguished themselves in various professions.

Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Miss Simisola Abore described the academic journey as demanding but rewarding, urging her fellow graduates to uphold the values instilled by the institution and remain committed to giving back to society.

The convocation ceremony also celebrated academic excellence as Miss Amosu Oluwapelumi emerged the Overall Best Full-Time Graduating Student, receiving a ₦10 million cash prize in recognition of her outstanding academic performance. She attributed her success to consistency, discipline and hard work.