Africa
GOV. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has said that democracy must transcend periodic elections to deliver tangible improvements in the lives of citizens.
Sanwo-Olu stated this on Thursday at the Centenary Lecture and Seminar Series III commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Yoruba Tennis Club, held at Onikan, Lagos.
The lecture had the theme: “Democracy and the Imperative of Good Governance: Renewing Hope in Challenging Times.”
According to the governor, the true test of good governance lies in the ability of governments to translate public trust into measurable progress and renewed hope.
He called on leaders in the country and institutions to prioritise service, strengthen democratic structures and ensure that the dividends of governance were felt in the everyday lives of the people.
“Citizens do not wake up each morning asking whether democracy exists; they ask whether democracy is working for them.
“Every completed road, functioning school, job created and improved public service should strengthen citizens’ confidence in government and reinforce their faith in the democratic process,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu said his administration had continued to pursue this philosophy through its THEMES+ Development Agenda.
The agenda, he said, focused on transportation and urban mobility, healthcare, education, security, digital innovation and creating an investment-friendly environment.
According to him, hope cannot be sustained by speeches alone but must be reinforced by visible progress and governments keeping its promises.
Highlighting global challenges such as economic uncertainty, technological disruption, climate pressures and security concerns, the governor called for stronger collaboration among governments, private institutions and civil society.
Sanwo-Olu stated that no government or institution could build a prosperous and stable nation alone.
While congratulating the Yoruba Tennis Club on its centenary, the governor urged members to continue to nurture enlightened leadership, promote constructive dialogue and inspire future generations.
“Nigeria needs more institutions that build bridges rather than barriers, more conversations that unite rather than divide, and more leadership that inspires confidence rather than fear.
“Ultimately, the future of our democracy will be shaped not only by those who occupy public office, but by the quality of our institutions, the strength of our values and the willingness of every citizen to play a positive role in nation-building,” he said.
In his lecture, Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom said the true measure of democracy lied not in the conduct of elections but in the quality of governance they produce.
Eno noted that democracies globally face mounting challenges, including economic pressures, insecurity, climate change, youth unemployment and declining public trust, but said such periods also present opportunities for renewal.
“Democracy must deliver tangible benefits to citizens through quality healthcare, education, infrastructure and improved living standards; elections confer legitimacy, governance justifies it,” he said.
The Akwa-Ibom governor identified accountability, transparency, citizen participation, rule of law and equity as key pillars of good governance, stressing that governments must remain answerable to the people.
According to him, inclusive governance, fair resource distribution and adherence to the rule of law are essential to rebuilding public trust and ensuring meaningful development.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Yoruba Tennis Club, Chief Olawumi Gasper, described the club as Nigeria’s oldest indigenous social club with a legacy of fostering friendships, civic values and intellectual engagement.
Gasper urged participants to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey, celebrate past leaders and renew their commitment to good governance, institutional excellence and sustainable development. (NAN)
A.I
Aug. 6, 2026
Tags: Chief Olawumi Gasper Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu Yoruba Tennis Club