BREAKING: Gov advocates stronger democracies in Africa

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has advocated resilient democracies in Africa.

The governor canvassed this at LUX Marijani in Zanzibar, a region off the coast of East Africa, during the 7th Africa Political Summit and Diamond Awards, organised by the Association of Political Consultants Africa.

According to a Monday statement from the Office of the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Nurudeen Agbaje, the event held from December 11 to 14, 2024, and brought together political consultants, leaders and stakeholders to deliberate on the theme, “Building Resilient Democracies: Elections, Transitions, and Governance.”

At the event, Sanwo-Olu was also honoured with the 2024 Democracy Award.

“Represented by the SA, Agbaje, the governor underscored the pivotal role of resilient democracies in fostering governance, safeguarding human rights, and promoting inclusivity.

“He showcased Lagos State’s transformative milestones under his THEMES + Developmental Agenda, emphasising advancements in innovation, infrastructure, healthcare, commerce, tourism, and security.

“In his address, Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos State’s role as a beacon of democratic governance in Africa, detailing key achievements in technology, infrastructure, healthcare and economic growth,” the statement said.

He called for sustained investment in electoral technology, robust civic education, and greater political inclusivity to strengthen Africa’s democratic systems.

The APCA President, Kipngeno Duncan, presented the Democracy Award to Sanwo-Olu, commending his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to democratic governance in Lagos.

Agbaje, joined by the Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Office, Kehinde Gbajumo, received the award on behalf of the governor.