The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday, celebrated his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, on his 60th birthday.
Sanwo-Olu described Hamzat as a very good brother and work partner.
The governor spoke at the Lagos Community Central Mosque Multi-Purpose Hall in Ikeja, during the 60th Birthday Prayer Session for Hamzat.
He said that over the years that he had known the deputy governor, he had been very supportive.
According to the governor, he could not have asked for a better brother or partner.
“Till date, Hamzat and I have never quarreled. We have never had an issue that would degenerate into negativity,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“On behalf of my darling wife, my children, the entire cabinet and members of the Lagos State Government, permit me to include the legislative arm, the judiciary arm, and the entire public service of the Lagos State, we thank God for your life and we are happy to say that we are proud of you. You’re one of our very best,” the governor told his deputy.
Hamzat, in his remarks, lauded his principal, Sanwo-Olu, for his developmental strides in Lagos.
He said Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to actualising certain projects in Lagos, such as the construction of the Blue and Red line rails as well as the repair of the Third Mainland Bridge, was a reflection of the governor’s passion for developing the state.
Hamzat said, “The governor came to me and said ‘this Third Mainland Bridge, we must repair it.’
Noting that he expressed concern for funds, he added, “But the governor told me: ‘We have to look for it (the money).’ So this shows the passion that you (the governor) bring to the job, the passion that you bring to the state. Those rails that were built were not easy. Lagos State is the only state where the Federal Government did not contribute to such a project.”
He appreciated his family, friends, the governor, Lagos State officials, and everyone for coming together to celebrate him.
The event was graced by the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, and several officials of the state.
Obasa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Eromosele Ebhomele, described Hamzat as a seasoned administrator passionate about the growth and development of Lagos.
“At 60, Dr. Hamzat maintains a series of achievements making him a perfect example of a technocrat whose commitment has brought positive results to the state.
“He is a dedicated Nigerian, a true brother and trusted ally in the push to make Lagos a better place,” Obasa said while noting the cordial relationship between Hazmat and Sanwo-Olu and their collaboration with other arms of government.
The event was graced by the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Sulaimon Abu-Nollah, who led the opening prayer.
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Lagos chapter, Bishop S.T.V Adegbite, also delivered a goodwill message.