Wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has stated that Lagos politics has reached a new level of maturity, noting that the state has consistently remained at the forefront of Nigeria’s political landscape.

She made this known while receiving the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus governorship candidate. According to her, the process that produced Hamzat reflects growing political maturity and peaceful consensus-building.

“Politically, Lagos State has always been at the forefront, showcasing leadership to the rest of Nigeria. You have added a first and it is so peaceful, and I think we are all getting matured politically and have come of age,” she said.

The symbolic presentation of Hamzat was carried out by members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), led by its leader, Prince Tajudden Oluyole Olusi.

The First Lady likened the GAC to an Electoral College and commended its role in selecting Hamzat, saying the body had done well in its choice.

“With all the years of our democracy, we now know that all power belongs to God and He gives it to whoever He pleases,” she added.

She also praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his leadership, offering prayers for him as he prepares to complete his tenure.

“You have done your best, and I pray that as you begin to transition, God will keep you and be with you.

”Earlier, Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that Hamzat had undertaken wide consultations with various stakeholders, including individuals who had shown interest in contesting for the governorship.

“Yesterday, 25 GAC members were present at the meeting and they unanimously agreed and confirmed our willingness to support Kadri Obafemi Hamzat. We have also presented him to Mr President and he has accepted Kadri Obafemi Hamzat. But as a GAC member yourself, we have come to present him to you, get your motherly blessing and counsel as well,” he said.

Also speaking, the GAC leader, Prince Tajudeen Oluyole Olusi, highlighted the importance of women in governance within Yoruba culture, explaining that their visit to the First Lady was to seek her blessing and counsel.

In her remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals and former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, praised the First Lady’s contributions and support to the President through her initiatives.

“You are indeed a strong woman, and we are really proud of you. We pray that what our leader and mentor, Mr President, is doing for this nation will be sustained,” she said.

Adefulire then formally presented Hamzat to the First Lady as the APC consensus governorship candidate for the 2027 elections.