Traditional institution key to progress – Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described the traditional institution as a critical partner in the state’s development.

He added that sustainable progress depends not only on government policies but also on strong community leadership.

The governor stated this at the grand finale of the 10th coronation anniversary of the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, Oba Semiudeen Kasali, held in Igbogbo, Ikorodu area of Lagos State, on Saturday.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Rural Development, Nurudeen Agbaje, Sanwo-Olu said traditional rulers had continued to play significant roles in promoting peace, preserving cultural values, resolving conflicts and mobilising communities for development.

He said, “The progress of Lagos depends not only on the policies of the government but also on the strength of our communities and the quality of leadership at every level. Our traditional institution remains a valuable partner in promoting peace, preserving our values, resolving conflicts and mobilising our people for development.

“I therefore commend Kabiyesi and the good people of Igbogbo Kingdom for sustaining this partnership, and I assure you of the continued support and collaboration of the Lagos State Government. Kabiyesi, as you begin another journey on the throne, I pray Almighty God grants you continued good health, divine wisdom, enduring peace and many more years of fruitful and impactful reign.”

As part of the celebration, a book titled The Town, the Throne and Transformation was unveiled.

Earlier, during a public lecture marking the anniversary, Oba Kasali donated Information and Communication Technology equipment to five secondary schools in the Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area to enhance teaching and learning.

The beneficiary schools were Community Senior Secondary School, Zumratul Islammiyah Grammar School, Oreyo Senior Grammar School, Lagos State Model College and Civil Service Senior Model College.

The schools received computer systems, printers and Uninterruptible Power Supply units.

Addressing the students at the event, the monarch urged them to remain focused on their education, describing academic excellence as the foundation for a successful future.

The keynote lecture, titled “Curbing the Menace of Unemployment: Causes, Effects and Solutions,” was delivered by the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Mrs Lolade Aina, who was represented by Mr Demilade Shitta.

Aina encouraged young people to embrace skills acquisition, innovation and entrepreneurship as sustainable solutions to unemployment.

She said, “Businesses grow through community collaboration. Skills such as creativity and innovation are what many people are learning. The young people who strive to solve problems are the ones who remain relevant.”

The event also featured a panel discussion during which participants were encouraged to leverage entrepreneurship and innovation to address unemployment and promote economic growth.