Sanwo-Olu Reflects on COVID-19 and #EndSARS Challenges

At the 2026 undergraduate convocation ceremony of Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu delivered a lecture titled “Breaking New Ground: Faith, Grit and the Work of New Beginnings.” He reflected on his tenure beginning in 2019, noting that he faced the COVID-19 pandemic just nine months into his administration. Sanwo-Olu described the pandemic as an unprecedented global health emergency that required Lagos to establish a comprehensive response system amid global shortages of medical supplies.

He led the creation of the state’s COVID War Room, emphasizing the importance of expert advice in governance. Sanwo-Olu also discussed the #EndSARS protests, which he described as a significant challenge during his second year in office, resulting in extensive destruction across Lagos.

He highlighted the lessons learned from these crises, particularly the importance of how individuals respond to challenges. He encouraged graduates to accept uncertainty as a constant in life.