Saturday, June 21, 2025

From Surulere to the Summit: Why Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila Must Be the Next Governor of Lagos State

 

Here's a compelling, electrifying article on Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila—highlighting his leadership qualities, achievements, and a bold call for his governorship bid in Lagos State.

By Lekan Yusuf 


In the political tapestry of Nigeria, few names command as much respect, trust, and results-driven admiration as Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. A son of Lagos with global vision, Gbajabiamila is not just a seasoned politician—he is a reformer, a bridge-builder, and a generational leader who has redefined public service at every step of his journey. As Lagos moves toward its next critical chapter, it is abundantly clear: the state deserves a leader with integrity, experience, and unwavering love for its people. Lagos deserves Gbajabiamila.


Rooted in Lagos, Trained for Greatness

Born on June 25, 1962, Femi Gbajabiamila’s story began in Surulere, Lagos, where he was raised with the values of education, integrity, and service. A graduate of Igbobi College, he went on to study law at the University of Lagos, and later earned a Juris Doctor degree in the United States, graduating with magna cum laude honors.

Whether in the bustling courtrooms of Lagos or the disciplined bar of Georgia, USA, Gbajabiamila’s brilliance and global exposure would shape his reputation as a methodical thinker and ethical legal mind. These qualities later became the cornerstone of his political rise.


A Legislator Like No Other: Making Laws, Making Impact

In 2003, Gbajabiamila took a bold step into politics, winning a seat in the House of Representatives to represent Surulere I Federal Constituency. From that moment on, he never looked back—winning six consecutive terms, and rising through the ranks to become Minority Leader, Majority Leader, and eventually Speaker of the House (2019–2023).

His achievements in the National Assembly are staggering:

  • Dozens of bills sponsored on student loans, constitutional reform, electoral integrity, and transparency.
  • Led the “doctrine of necessity” campaign, saving Nigeria from constitutional crisis in 2010.
  • Rejected a national award (OFR) in 2011—proof that his service is not for show but for substance.
  • As Speaker, he introduced technology modernization in legislative business, paving the way for a smarter, more efficient government.

Surulere’s Champion, Lagos' Model Leader

Gbajabiamila’s legacy in Surulere is legendary. He did not just “represent” his people—he uplifted them:

  • Built over 200 capital projects including roads, markets, police stations, mini stadiums, and IT centres.
  • Constructed the first federal hostel at UNILAG in 40 years—a 484-bed marvel named in his honour.
  • Held job fairs that connected thousands of Lagos youths to real employment opportunities.
  • Sponsored tuition grants, health outreaches, and tech empowerment schemes across his constituency.

This is not theory. This is tested, delivered leadership.


The Federal Link Lagos Needs

In June 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Gbajabiamila as Chief of Staff—one of the most strategic positions in national governance. As the President’s right-hand man, he has become a critical stabilizer in federal policy coordination, cabinet discipline, and implementation of national priorities.

This is a man who understands the inner workings of Aso Rock, and knows how to draw federal strength to Lagos, just as Lagos has always driven national progress.


Why Lagos Must Choose Gbaja

Lagos needs more than just a politician—it needs a planner, a doer, and a bridge between the old and the new. Gbajabiamila brings:

  • Unmatched legislative experience
  • A clean record of service and principle
  • Grassroots connection and loyalty
  • Federal executive experience and strategic networks

He is the natural successor to carry on the infrastructural, economic, and social rebirth Lagos has been charting. He understands the pressure. He has walked the walk. Now he must lead.


A Final Call to All Lagosians

We stand today at a threshold. The megacity of Lagos needs a leader who sees beyond the surface, who connects the people with policies, who serves without arrogance, and who fights without fear.

Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila is not just the best man for the job. He is the most prepared, the most principled, and the most proven.

Let’s rise behind him.

Let’s give Lagos what it deserves.

Let’s make Gbaja 2027 a movement.



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