Governor Sanwo-Olu Designates Lagos as ‘Yoruba United States,’ Pace-Setter for Nigeria’s Development

The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described Lagos as a “Yoruba United States,” characterizing the state as a distinctive model of diversity, unity, and progress that is actively setting the pace for Nigeria’s overall development.

Dependable NG reports that the Governor made the remark on Wednesday while delivering a speech at the South-West Citizen-Government Engagement Summit, which took place in Akure, Ondo State. The event successfully brought together a wide array of prominent figures from across the South-West region, including governors, traditional rulers, key political leaders, and influential members of the business community.

Sanwo-Olu proudly stated that he stands as the leader of Nigeria’s largest population and the nation’s undisputed economic and commercial nerve centre, a state he noted accommodates every tribe, religion, and race. He emphasized, “Yet, above all, Lagos stands as a Yoruba United States, a state that continues to reinvent itself and set the pace for the nation.” In a statement later shared via his social media platforms, the Governor called upon the entire South-West region to once again assume the lead in Nigeria’s national renewal through focused unity, a shared vision, and meaningful collaboration across its constituent states and communities.

The Governor specifically praised the establishment of the South-West Development Commission, an initiative pioneered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and supported by the National Assembly. Sanwo-Olu described the Commission as a significant new opportunity to pursue concerted regional development, reminiscent of the transformative progress achieved by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the old Western Region. “With the South-West Development Commission, we now have a platform to plan and deliver the kind of regional progress that once defined our region under Chief Awolowo,” he asserted.

Sanwo-Olu also commended President Tinubu’s ongoing economic reforms, noting that these policies are starting to restore economic confidence and successfully attract fresh investments into Nigeria. He stated, “Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is regaining stability and optimism. His reforms are working, the economy is growing, investment is returning, and the future looks brighter.” He highlighted several key infrastructure projects in Lagos, such as the Fourth Mainland Bridge, the Green Line Rail Project, and the Lekki International Airport, all of which are expected to reap significant benefits from this improved investor confidence. He concluded by firmly reaffirming the South-West’s critical leadership role in Nigeria’s socio-economic rebirth, stating, “The South-West can, and must, lead Nigeria’s renewal. The spirit of innovation and courage that shaped our past still lives within us today, and together, we will rise to this moment.”