With good character, absolute loyalty to a common cause and commitment to political leadership, Lagos State deputy governor, Dr. Babafemi Hamzat, has proven that a governor and his deputy can work together without rancour for the development of theirstate. MUYIWA ADEYEMI writes.
The relationship between governors and their deputies in the current democratic dispensation has not been encouraging and leaves much to be desired.
While many have blamed the crisis on the Nigerian Constitution that failed to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of deputy governors, some believe that a clear understanding of the working of government and character of both leaders are enough to promote cordial working and inter-personal relationship between them.
Indeed, since 1999, only very few governors and their deputies have spent two terms of eight years together without rancour or public disagreement. And only very few have succeeded their bosses.
There are even instances when deputies were impeached midway. But a deputy governor who is on the same political page with his governor and shares developmental ideas together builds a strong collaborative relationship that benefits the state.
Lagos State has set a good example of how a governor and his deputy can work together since 2019 when Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy, Dr Babafemi Hamzat were elected to govern the state. They have been a perfect match in governance. Sanwo-Olu’s experience in public administration and finance, combined with Hamzat’s technocratic and engineering background has created a well-rounded leadership team and this has greatly assisted in ensuring comprehensive policy making and implementation in the state.
Both leaders share a common vision for transforming Lagos State into a smart, resilient, and inclusive mega-city. Their alignment on key developmental goals helps streamline efforts and resources towards achieving these objectives. While Hamzat’s emphasises on leveraging technology complements Governor Sanwo-Olu’s initiatives to modernise Lagos, together they have introduced several tech-driven solutions to improve public service, infrastructure, and security. Their partnership exemplifies how a well-coordinated leadership team can drive significant progress and development in a complex urban environment like Lagos.
Indeed, Hamzat’s roles in government highlight the importance of a collaborative and supportive relationship between the governor and deputy governor, which is essential for effective governance in Nigerian politics.
The Lagos deputy governor, who turns 60 on Thursday, has carved a niche for himself for his commitment to efficiency, transparency, and innovation. He has been a strong advocate for integrating technology into public administration. His efforts have led to the digitisation of many government processes, improving efficiency and reducing corruption.
Besides, he has played a significant role in development and maintenance of infrastructure in Lagos State. His engineering background provides him with the expertise to oversee large scale projects, ensuring they are completed to high standards.
As someone who is deeply involved in the formulation and implementation of policies that drive Lagos development, Hamzat analytical approach ensures that policies are well-thought out and effectively address the needs of the population.
As a strong and committed member of All Progressives Congress (APC), his contributions with other leaders have been pivotal in positioning the party as a leading political force in Lagos State, driving both the party’s growth and the state’s development. Hamzat has not only contributed to strengthening the winning streak of the party in the state, he is known to be an active grassroots mobiliser who ensures that the party maintains a strong connection with the electorate. Additionally, he has been a strong advocate for policies that promote good governance and development.
He has a long standing relationship with President Bola Tinubu, who appointed him as the Commissioner for Science and Technology, as governor of Lagos State in 2005. This appointment marked the beginning of their professional relationship, which has continued over the years.
He retained his position when Babatunde Fashola, another close political associate of Tinubu, became governor of the state in 2007. The continuity highlighted the trust and confidence Tinubu and his political circle have in Hamzat’s capabilities and continuation of key projects and policies.
Like Sanwo-Olu and other APC leaders in the state, Hamzat was a strong supporter of Tinubu’s political ambitions, including his successful bid for the presidency in 2023.
President Tinubu had on several occasions described Hamzat as a loyal and reliable party member. He said: “Femi Hamzat has exhibited good character, excellent relationship between him and Governor Sanwo-Olu worthy of emulation. His contributions in the areas of information technology and infrastructural conception, design and development are particularly remarkable. He has not been found wanting in his contributions and commitment to making Lagos a better place. He has served the state with dedication in several capacities and continues in the tradition of diligence and excellence in the service of our people.”
Expressing satisfaction with Hamzat as a technocrat in government, President Tinubu said: “He has served the state with dedication in several capacities and continues in the tradition of diligence and excellence in the service of our people.He has provided strong support and partnership to ensure that our APC government achieve the aspiration of a greater and better Lagos. As a leader in a great team, Deputy Governor Hamzat has demonstrated that a deputy can work harmoniously with the governor, and yet carve a niche for himself.
“This excellent team building and partnership is worthy of emulation by governors and their deputies across the country, particularly in states where such a relationship has been characterized by constant distrust and acrimony.”
For Governor Sanwo-Olu, his deputy is worth celebrating for his life of consistent commitment to public service in different capacities, especially his contributions to governance in Lagos State, formerly as a commissioner in various ministries and now as deputy governor of the state.
Sanwo-Olu added that Hamzat is a reliable, trustworthy and committed brother, friend, and partner, describing him as epitome of dedication and selflessness, who has used his elevated positions in government to uplift the standards of life of the people he is serving.
He said the deputy governor to date remains one of the few Lagosians and Nigerian leaders, who have contributed immensely to the growth and development of the state with a high degree of honesty, dedication and professionalism.
Unknown to many, Hamzat who also nursed ambition of becoming governor of Lagos State stepped down for Sanwo-Olu during the primary of the party in September 2018, leaving the contest for ex-Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and Sanwo-Olu. Ambode suffered defeat while Hamzat became running mate to Sanwo-Olu.
Although many political watchers in the state are predicting that the 2027 governorship primary in Lagos APC is going to be a straight contest between him and Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa. However, Hamzat’s supporters believe that experience in governance and desire for continuity, which has been the hallmark of Lagos APC and government will determine the outcome of the contest.