Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged Nigerian youths to remain optimistic about the country’s future, saying Nigeria still offers immense opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship and personal growth despite its current economic and social challenges.
The governor gave the advice while delivering the convocation lecture at the 2026 graduation ceremony of Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, where more than 3,400 students graduated.
Speaking on the theme, “Breaking New Ground: Faith, Grit and the Work of New Beginnings,” Sanwo-Olu encouraged the graduating NOVA Class of 2026 to embrace uncertainty, remain resilient in the face of setbacks and position themselves to seize emerging opportunities.
He said today’s graduates have access to opportunities that were unimaginable decades ago and should not allow prevailing national challenges to limit their ambitions.
“They need to understand the world they live in. They should not give excuses or reasons why they cannot succeed. They should embrace the opportunities before them and run with them,” he said.
The governor stressed that success requires courage, faith and persistence rather than absolute certainty.
“You do not need absolute clarity or certainty to take the next step. More important is faith. New ground is broken by people willing to act without full knowledge or certainty, knowing that what matters most is the willingness to press forward, learn fast and adapt,” he added.
Drawing from his personal experiences, Sanwo-Olu recounted how several business ventures failed after he graduated from the University of Lagos, noting that those setbacks helped shape his leadership philosophy.
“Life rewards the people who rise fastest after failing, not those who wallow in self-pity. Sometimes failure teaches you to try again; other times it teaches you to choose a different path,” he said.
Reflecting on his time in office, the governor identified the COVID-19 pandemic and the #EndSARS protests as defining moments that reinforced the importance of resilience, calm leadership, reliance on expert advice and data-driven decision-making.
He also advised young innovators and entrepreneurs to engage government with practical, evidence-based solutions rather than ideas alone.
“Government adopts what is proven. Do not come with a pitch; come with a pilot. Demonstrate results, measure outcomes and document them,” he said.
Highlighting his administration’s achievements over the past seven years, Sanwo-Olu said Lagos State’s annual budget had grown from less than ₦900 billion in 2019 to ₦4.44 trillion in 2026. He also cited investments in modern rail infrastructure, the establishment of two additional state universities, the delivery of thousands of housing units and the ongoing construction of what he described as the largest children’s hospital in sub-Saharan Africa.
The governor defended the Federal Government’s ongoing economic reforms, saying they were laying the foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth despite the temporary hardships being experienced by Nigerians.
He cautioned young people against celebrating mediocrity, urging them instead to pursue knowledge, competence and integrity.
“The internet may reward popularity, but never glorify ignorance. Build your reputation on substance, not just visibility,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to uphold excellence, discipline and integrity as they pursue their careers and personal aspirations.
He also commended Babcock University for sustaining high academic standards and producing graduates who continue to distinguish themselves in various professions, saying the institution has consistently equipped young Nigerians with the knowledge, skills and values needed for national development.
At the ceremony, the university conferred its Leadership and Service Award on the governor in recognition of what it described as his outstanding performance in governance and service to Lagos State.
Receiving the award, Sanwo-Olu described leadership as a sacred responsibility founded on integrity, accountability and selfless service.
“It is a humbling experience and another call for us to continue to serve. 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,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the graduating class, Miss Simisola Abore described their academic journey as challenging but rewarding, urging her fellow graduates to remain united and uphold the values of Babcock University.
