Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was noticeably absent on Thursday during the official flag-off of the Epe–Ijebu-Ode seaport access road reconstruction, a key infrastructure project championed by President Bola Tinubu.
Despite his seat being clearly marked, the governor did not attend the event, with Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat representing the state and occupying a seat behind the one reserved for Sanwo-Olu. Other dignitaries in attendance included Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum and several federal officials.
President Tinubu, in his remarks, addressed Hamzat directly, acknowledging his presence in place of the Lagos governor. He also used the opportunity to call on state governors to collaborate with federal agencies before issuing planning permits, especially for developments along major roadways and sensitive coastal areas.
“Please, our dear governors, let’s work together,” Tinubu urged. “Don’t give planning approvals without collaborating with the surveyor-general of the federation and the ministry of works on these roads.”
The Epe–Ijebu-Ode access road is considered vital to improving connectivity to the Lekki Deep Seaport and enhancing trade efficiency along Nigeria’s southern corridor.
