Lagos 2027: The Succession Race Begins

The Unwavering Loyalty and Proven Competence of Obafemi Hamzat: A Testament to Future Leadership in Lagos

In the intricate landscape of politics, loyalty is often lauded as a rare and precious commodity, akin to a vital lifeblood for the flourishing of any political endeavor. Within the dynamic administration of Lagos State, the unwavering loyalty demonstrated by Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat towards Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stands out as a significant factor, particularly as the political future of 2027 approaches. This steadfast support has ensured a unified government in Lagos, free from distractions and internal discord, allowing for a cohesive approach to governance and the pursuit of the state’s developmental agenda. Hamzat’s consistent commitment has positioned him as an invaluable asset, rather than a liability, throughout his service to various administrations.

The profound confidence placed in Dr. Hamzat by national leaders and former governors of Lagos State offers a compelling insight into his character and capabilities. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during Hamzat’s birthday anniversary in 2024, penned a heartfelt letter that underscored their long-standing professional relationship. Recalling Hamzat’s tenure as a state commissioner under his own governorship in Lagos, President Tinubu described him as an “exemplary aide and trusted friend.” He further elaborated on Hamzat’s appointment in 2005, recognizing his “exceptional talent and unwavering commitment to excellence.” The President highlighted Hamzat’s unique blend of “technical acumen, visionary leadership, and an unyielding dedication to the progress of our people.” According to Tinubu, Hamzat’s role in shaping Lagos’s future has been “pivotal,” attributing to him a “deep understanding of governance” and an “innovative approach to problem-solving” that has driven the state’s socio-economic transformation. His contributions, the President noted, have not only bolstered Lagos’s infrastructure and governance but have also set new benchmarks for public service nationwide. Beyond his professional achievements, President Tinubu lauded Hamzat for his “profound integrity and compassion,” his dedication to public welfare, his humility in leadership, and his ability to inspire others, qualities that have earned him widespread admiration.

The strong endorsement from the nation’s leader suggests a promising future for Lagosians should Hamzat ascend to the governorship. Governor Sanwo-Olu’s own words further bolster this sentiment. On the occasion of Hamzat’s birthday, Governor Sanwo-Olu celebrated his “dear brother, friend, and reliable partner,” emphasizing his “immeasurable contributions to Lagos State and Nigeria.” He described Hamzat as a “lover of our dear state and the country,” whose commitment to public service and the development of Lagos continues to inspire. Sanwo-Olu expressed pride in their shared journey of leadership and governance, characterizing his deputy as an “administrator par excellence, a seasoned technocrat and politician, hardworking, supportive, trustworthy, and a committed partner.”

The views of the Lagos State ruling party chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, further solidify Hamzat’s standing. During Hamzat’s birthday anniversary in 2025, Ojelabi lauded the milestone as a testament to his “unwavering dedication, exemplary service, and profound impact on the progress of our beloved state and nation.” Ojelabi affirmed Hamzat’s consistent demonstration of commitment as a “trusted public servant,” passionately driving Lagos’s growth and development. He recognized Hamzat’s instrumental role as a “seasoned technocrat, brilliant administrator, and team player” in the successes of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government, noting his contributions to good governance and the delivery of democratic dividends. Ojelabi further described Hamzat as a “brother, a dependable partner, and a shining example of excellence in public service,” whose hard work, supportiveness, and trustworthiness have inspired many within and beyond the party, making him a “key pillar in our collective mission to build a prosperous and inclusive Lagos.”

Beyond these powerful testimonials, Hamzat’s deep connection to Lagos as an “omo ile” (native son) provides him with an intrinsic understanding of the state’s traditional, social, and political fabric. His political journey is not one of happenstance; he hails from a distinguished political lineage. His father, Mufutau Olatunji Hamzat, served as a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly and later as the state Commissioner for Transportation. He also held significant positions within political parties, including vice-chairman (South-West) of the Alliance for Democracy and Lagos West Senatorial District leader of the Action Congress, before becoming an Oba (traditional ruler). This rich heritage positions Hamzat as a politician who inherently understands and champions the interests of all Lagosians.

Hamzat’s professional background further underscores his suitability for leadership. Armed with a Master’s degree in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Ibadan and a PhD in System Process Engineering from Cranfield University in England, he possesses a strong academic foundation. His extensive career spans over two decades in the private sector, with notable tenures at companies such as RTP Consulting Services, College of New Rochelle, Merrill Lynch Inc., Morgan Stanley, and Oando Plc. This diverse experience was followed by over two decades of dedicated public service.

His public service career began in August 2005 when he was appointed Commissioner for Science and Technology under Governor Bola Tinubu. He continued in this role when Governor Babatunde Fashola took office in 2007. During his tenure as Commissioner for Science and Technology, Hamzat was instrumental in integrating modern technology into the state’s ministries, revolutionizing data and record-keeping practices and effectively eliminating the issue of ghost workers. By 2013, he had transitioned to the position of Commissioner of Works, where his ministry successfully executed several critical projects contributing to Lagos’s development as a mega-city. His achievements in this role earned him the prestigious recognition of “Lagos Man of the Year 2013.”

In 2015, Hamzat served as Special Adviser on Works to the Minister for Works, Power and Housing, Babatunde Fashola. He resigned from this position in September 2018 to contest for the governorship of Lagos State. Demonstrating political acumen and a commitment to party unity, he stepped down for Governor Sanwo-Olu during the primaries and subsequently became his running mate. Having previously vied for the governorship, Hamzat possesses a deep understanding of the state’s political dynamics and commands a significant grassroots following, which could be invaluable for the ruling party in future elections. A leadership transition to Hamzat would promise continuity and consolidation, essential for maintaining Lagos’s trajectory of consistent mega-city development.

The prospect of a transition from a governor to his deputy is a significant one, as it has not occurred in Lagos State since 1999. One can surmise that had Governor Bola Tinubu possessed a deputy with Hamzat’s credentials and loyalty at the end of his tenure, he might have actively supported their succession. After all, Tinubu’s foresight in selecting Babatunde Fashola, another capable individual with outstanding qualifications, exemplifies his strategic approach to leadership succession. Hamzat’s strong standing with party leadership at all levels suggests that he is well-positioned to secure their support for the upcoming gubernatorial primaries.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s focus on legacy is a crucial element, and Hamzat is arguably the most suitable candidate to ensure its continuation. The synergy between Hamzat’s potential role in ensuring continuity and President Tinubu’s understanding of this dynamic is significant. The President’s enduring legacy in Lagos is partly attributable to his decision in 2007 to hand over the reins of government to a lieutenant who shared his vision for the state. President Tinubu’s well-recognized talent for identifying and nurturing promising leaders positions him as a political giant. It is therefore encouraged that he continues this proven approach with Dr. Hamzat. Similarly, it is anticipated that Governor Sanwo-Olu will demonstrate a similar forward-thinking mindset by actively supporting Hamzat’s succession.