By Peace Udugba
Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, has conferred its Leadership and Service Award on Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in recognition of what the institution described as his outstanding leadership and achievements in governance.
The award was presented during the university’s 24th Undergraduate Convocation Ceremony held on Sunday, where more than 3,400 students graduated in the presence of academics, parents and other distinguished guests.
Delivering the convocation lecture titled, “Breaking New Ground: Faith, Grit and the Work of New Beginnings,” Governor Sanwo-Olu urged the graduating students, known as the 2026 Undergraduate NOVA Class, to embrace innovation, integrity and resilience as they prepare for life beyond the university.
He described leadership as a responsibility founded on integrity, accountability and selfless service, encouraging the graduates to develop practical solutions to societal challenges and engage government with evidence-based ideas capable of driving sustainable development.
“I am not a graduand. I am here because, as a leader, we need to continue to encourage young people, share our experiences with them and let them know that life is waiting for them out there,” the governor said.
He described the honour as both humbling and a renewed call to public service.
“We must lead with the fear of God, understanding that people are watching us and that we are expected to provide good examples for younger generations.
“The world will not give you what you believe you deserve; it will only give you what you demand of it. I encourage you to remain focused, adaptable and committed to lifelong learning,” he added.
Reflecting on his administration’s journey, Sanwo-Olu recalled leading Lagos through the COVID-19 pandemic and the #EndSARS protests, noting that periods of crisis often provide the greatest test of leadership.
He highlighted major achievements recorded by his administration over the past seven years, including investments in transportation, education, healthcare, housing and technology.
According to him, Lagos State’s budget has grown from less than ₦900 billion in 2019 to ₦4.44 trillion in 2026, while the state was recognised by the Dealroom Global Tech Ecosystem Index in 2025 as the world’s fastest-growing technology ecosystem.
The governor also cited the establishment of two new state-owned universities, the ongoing construction of what he described as the largest children’s hospital in sub-Saharan Africa, reforms in digital learning across public schools and the delivery of thousands of housing units.
He commended Babcock University for its contributions to higher education and for producing graduates who continue to distinguish themselves in various professions.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Miss Simisola Abore described the academic journey as both demanding and rewarding, urging her fellow graduates to uphold the university’s values and make meaningful contributions to society.
The convocation ceremony also celebrated academic excellence as Miss Amosu Oluwapelumi emerged as the Overall Best Full-Time Graduating Student. She received a cash prize of ₦10 million and attributed her outstanding performance to consistency, discipline and hard work.
