Sanwo-Olu at 60: Governors, business leaders, celebrities honour Lagos governor with worship concert
By Oki Samson
LAGOS, NIGERIA – In celebration of his 60th birthday, Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu opted for a soulful evening of praise and worship over the traditional fanfare, hosting a special thanksgiving event themed ‘Rhythms of Worship with Adura’.
The spiritual gathering, held at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites, drew a convergence of Nigeria’s political elite, captains of industry, gospel artistes, and well-wishers, all united in heartfelt worship and gratitude to God for the governor's life and leadership.
Among those present to honour Governor Sanwo-Olu were Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Zenith Bank Chairman, Mr. Jim Ovia; industrialist Aare Rasaq Okoya and his wife, Chief Dr. Shade Okoya; Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde; Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke; Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji; former Lagos Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola; former Ogun Governor Chief Olusegun Osoba; and the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, alongside his wife.
Also in attendance were Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu; Lagos Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; Iyaloja General, Chief Folashade Tinubu-Ojo; Lagos State cabinet members; lawmakers; local council chairpersons; traditional rulers; security chiefs; and members of the state’s Governance Advisory Council (GAC).
The concert featured powerful ministrations from renowned gospel artistes including Pastor Kunle Ajayi, Mercy Chinwo, Moses Bliss, Adeyinka Alaseyori, Bidemi Olaoba, Laolu Gbenjo, Dare Justified, and the Dream Catchers Academy, among others. Together, they turned the celebration into a moving worship experience, offering songs of thanksgiving that resonated deeply with the audience.
Leading one of the high points of the evening was Dr. Mrs. Ajoke Ogunsan, a seasoned gospel minister who moved guests to tears with her heartfelt renditions. As she ministered, many in the hall were seen on their knees, lifting hands in reverence.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, fondly called Aduragbemi (meaning “prayer has lifted me”) by his wife, actively participated in the worship, dancing joyfully and lifting his voice in praise. The governor, dressed elegantly for the occasion, used the opportunity to offer prayers for the future and expressed gratitude to God for his journey so far.
In an emotional speech, the governor reflected on the significance of the moment, saying:
“Today is all about God. About His goodness, His faithfulness, and the rhythm of His love that continues to echo in my life and the life of our beloved Lagos State.”
He explained that the event’s theme, Adura, was inspired by his name and served to emphasize the central role of prayer in both his personal and public life.
“This gathering is not about spectacle; it is about substance. It is about creating a sacred space for life, for health, for peace and hope.”
Sanwo-Olu also paid tribute to his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, and their children, who were present to share in the joy of the day. He extended appreciation to his team, political associates, and the people of Lagos for their unwavering support over the years.
“Even at 60, I rededicate myself to the cause of building a Lagos that works for all,” he said.
The celebratory worship event not only honoured the life and legacy of Governor Sanwo-Olu but also set a new standard for commemorating milestones through spiritual reflection and gratitude.
The Rhythms of Worship with Adura has been widely praised as a meaningful, inspiring celebration that demonstrated humility, reverence, and purpose—a reflection of the governor’s values and leadership philosophy.
