Youngest permanent board member describes Lagos Governor as mentor, father figure, and living example of impactful leadership

O.J. Falana, the youngest Permanent Board Member of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, LASUBEB, has penned a moving tribute to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as he celebrates his 61st birthday. In a personal message, Falana reflected on the Governor’s influence on his life and career, describing him as more than a leader but a mentor and father figure.

Falana expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve under the Governor’s administration, noting that Sanwo-Olu has a unique way of making even the youngest appointees feel seen and heard. He praised the Governor for looking beyond age and focusing on capacity, nurturing dreams, and giving young people a seat at the table as contributors, not tokens. According to Falana, that is the mark of a leader who truly believes in the future he is building.

The LASUBEB board member recalled quiet moments of encouragement from the Governor, words of approval, and the simple but powerful phrase, keep going. He noted that in a world where young people are often told to wait their turn, Sanwo-Olu has told them to take their place, showing that leadership is not about age but about readiness. Falana declared that Lagos is greater because of the Governor and that he personally is better because of him.

Falana prayed for continued strength, guidance, and good health for the Governor, asking that his legacy continues to inspire generations and that the city of Lagos flourishes under his watch. He concluded by thanking the Governor for showing that leadership with heart is not just possible but powerful.