Demola Olarewaju, Special Assistant on Digital Media Strategy to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has shared his perspectives on Lagos State’s evolving identity and leadership inclusivity during an interview with Mic on Podcast from 38:52.
Addressing the historical context of Nigeria’s commercial hub, Olarewaju noted that “Lagos was named Lagos by the Portuguese,” adding that “the Portuguese came to buy slaves in Lagos.”
The political strategist emphasized that Lagos’s prominence stems from its economic character. “What gives Lagos that brand is the fact that Lagos is a commercial state,” he stated.
On the question of ethnic considerations in the state’s leadership, Olarewaju expressed an inclusive stance. “I don’t have a problem with Chukwudi running Lagos State, I honestly do not have a problem with it, as long as certain things are also put in place to protect the interest of the indigenous people of Lagos State,” he said.
He further clarified his position on ethnic ownership debates: “Don’t just come and say Lagos belongs to this ethnicity or belong to that ethnicity. I don’t think in terms of such prisms.”
While acknowledging the state’s roots, Olarewaju recognized its transformation. “Historically, Lagos is a Yoruba land, but Lagos over the years has gone through several revolutions. It’s also undergoing an evolution now,” he explained.
He stressed the importance of balancing progress with indigenous rights: “The rights of indigenous people of Lagos will always be enshrined, must always be enshrined. But we must also understand that Lagos no longer just belongs to Lagosians.”
Drawing parallels with global centers of excellence, the media aide compared Lagos’s aspirations to cities like those in Saudi Arabia and America. “If Lagos wants to be the center of Nigeria, then Lagos must be willing to welcome people,” he argued.
Concluding his thoughts on leadership criteria, Olarewaju stated: “I don’t mind who is governor of Lagos, as long as that person is commercially driven, that person is entrepreneurially driven.” See, More, Here>>>
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