Sanwo-Olu Endorses Tinubu for Second Term at Lagos Lecture

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term during the 7th Freedom Online Yearly Lecture in Lagos on September 3, 2026. Sanwo-Olu argued that federal economic and security reforms are leading Nigeria toward recovery, citing a 4.43% economic growth rate in the second quarter of 2026, foreign reserves of $53 billion, and a drop in inflation to 15.9% in June. While acknowledging the hardship caused by the removal of the petrol subsidy, he described the policy as necessary to rescue public finances.

Addressing the theme of the 2027 elections, Sanwo-Olu and former Minister of Information and Culture Lai Mohammed emphasized that security is a prerequisite for economic growth. Sanwo-Olu highlighted the expansion of the Nigerian Army to 12 divisions and the push for State Police as critical measures. Both speakers urged the media to combat disinformation and avoid sensationalism to maintain stability during the upcoming electoral transition.

Senator Gbenga Daniel, a former Governor of Ogun State, also spoke at the event, warning that insecurity continues to hinder food production and discourage investment. Daniel noted that the abduction of over 7,800 people between July 2025 and June 2026 serves as an economic warning. He called for a shift away from oil dependency toward the non-oil sector and urged the government to create more opportunities for young Nigerians to ensure social stability.