Get to know Lagos State leaders, what they do, and how they impact the city with your tax money. A simple guide for Lagosians.

 A state is a place governed by people voted in by the citizens, and Lagos State is no different. While we respect our leaders enough to vote them in, we also owe it to ourselves to know who they are and what they actually do.

That’s why, starting today, every Thursday, we’ll run a series that shines a light on three Lagos State leaders, the positions they occupy, the work they do, and the money they handle from our tax papers. 

Do they keep the Lagos standard, improve it, or… not?

The verdict? That’s left up to you, my fellow Lagosians. Your opinions matter, so comment freely, engage, and let’s talk Lagos governance.

So without further ado, Lets Lock in...

1. Babajide Sanwo‑Olu

Governor of Lagos state


Who he is:
Governor Sanwo‑Olu has been the Governor of Lagos State since 2019 and was re‑elected in 2023. Before becoming governor, he worked in government and private companies, including banking. He also served as a commissioner in several ministries and led the Lagos State Development Property Corporation.

What he does:
As governor, he is in charge of running the state. He decides on government policies, proposes the budget, and oversees things like roads, public transport, schools, hospitals, and security.

What he has done since taking office:

  • Repaired and upgraded bridges and roads, including the Third Mainland Bridge.

  • Expanded public transportation with the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (Blue and Red lines) and better bus and ferry services.

  • Built affordable housing projects.

  • Created programs to support small businesses and provide jobs.

  • Improved public safety by supporting security agencies and emergency services.

Why it matters:
Governor Sanwo‑Olu uses tax money to improve daily life in Lagos. Some projects are very visible, like roads and rail lines, while others, like housing and jobs, take longer to affect people directly.

2.  Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat

Deputy governor of lagos state


Who he is:
Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat is the Deputy Governor of Lagos State. He has a background in engineering and has worked in both the private and public sectors.

What he does:
He helps the governor run the state by coordinating programs and projects, representing the governor in meetings, and making sure government systems work efficiently.

What he has done since taking office:

  • Introduced technology systems in government offices to make services faster and more reliable.

  • Helped train thousands of law enforcement officers to improve public safety.

  • Supported education, health, and technology programs for communities and schools.

  • Encouraged citizen participation in government programs and political activities.

Why it matters:
Even though he doesn’t control budgets directly, he helps make sure government projects are run properly and on time, which affects everyone living in Lagos.

3. Attorney General Lawal Pedro

Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State


Who he is:
Lawal Pedro is the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State. He is a senior lawyer who advises the government on legal matters and leads the state’s legal department.

What he does:
He ensures that laws are followed in Lagos, provides legal advice to the government, represents the state in court, and manages prosecutions.

What he has done since taking office:

  • Worked on legal reforms to make courts and laws more efficient.

  • Helped recover money owed to the state, including taxes.

  • Focused on fighting human trafficking and protecting citizens.

  • Improved legal services for government departments and agencies.

Why it matters:
Pedro ensures that Lagos follows the law and that citizens’ rights are protected. Tax money helps fund courts, legal services, and programs that keep Lagos safe and fair.

Your Turn

These leaders use tax money to improve Lagos through roads, transport, housing, security, legal systems, and jobs. Do they meet the Lagos Standard? 

Please share your thoughts in the comments.



Written by Mrs Cynthia Wulff.

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