•Nothing is More Important to My Administration than Security of Lives, Property - Governor

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has implored Nigerians not to lose hope in the country despite the challenges the nation has been confronted with in the last 61 years. 

He urged Nigerians to unite with renewed determination and commitment to move the country forward against all odds. 

Speaking during Nigeria's 61st Independence Anniversary celebration held at the Agege Stadium in Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the challenges confronting Nigeria in the last 61 years are daunting, but are certainly not insurmountable. 

"As we celebrate today, we do so mindful of the various challenges confronting us as a nation and as a State. But we are equally mindful of the various vistas of progress that have opened up, and which continue to give us hope that we can achieve the Nigeria of our dreams. 

"Even in the face of the many challenges confronting us as a people and as a nation, my message to every Nigerian at this time is that we have no reason to lose hope. There is enough evidence around us of the fact that while we are not yet where we would like to be as a country and as a people, we are also no longer where we used to be," he said. 

The Governor added that "...more than ever before, it is time for all of us to close ranks, and view our differences not as a stumbling block but instead as an energising force, and unite with renewed determination and commitment to move this country forward against all odds. 

"The challenges we have been confronted with at any time within the last 61 years have been and are no doubt daunting, but certainly not insurmountable. A new mindset is required to overcome them; a conviction that it is possible, and that our strength truly lies in our diversity.

"I am proud to affirm that Lagos State provides a perfect example within the Nigerian Nation, of the level of greatness a people of diverse ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds can attain if they resolve to live together in peace and harmony."