Hon. Azeez Oladapo Yusuf, popularly known as Ninolowo, has congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to remain patriotic, patient and committed to national development.
Ninolowo, in his Independence Day message, said Nigeria had demonstrated resilience over the years despite various challenges, calling on citizens to remain hopeful as the country tackles its economic and developmental difficulties.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its Renewed Hope Agenda and urged Nigerians to support the ongoing reforms.
“There is light at the end of the tunnel,” Ninolowo said, while appealing for patience and constructive support for the Federal Government, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
Nigeria is marking its 66th Independence Anniversary under the theme, “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity.”
Ninolowo also commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for what he described as his administration’s contribution to the development of the state.
The Agege politician expressed support for continuity in Lagos, specifically backing Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, who is the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2027 governorship election.
Hamzat has received the endorsement of the Lagos APC’s Governance Advisory Council as well as that of President Tinubu, while Governor Sanwo-Olu had earlier endorsed him as his preferred successor.
According to Ninolowo, continuity would provide an opportunity to consolidate ongoing programmes and advance Lagos’ development.
Speaking on his political ambition in Agege Constituency II, Ninolowo thanked residents and supporters for what he described as their continued confidence in his aspiration to represent them in the Lagos State House of Assembly in 2027.
He urged his supporters to remain calm and steadfast, assuring them that his ambition was driven by a desire to serve and deliver tangible benefits to the constituency.
“As time goes on, I will let you know how we are going to achieve it, but be rest assured, I will be the one to represent you,” he said.
Ninolowo said his aspiration was not merely about occupying political office but about responding to what he described as a responsibility to the people of Agege.
He also acknowledged the roles played by political and community leaders, including Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, other Agege leaders, pastors and imams, in conversations surrounding his political journey.
“This is a call to serve my people. Heaven won’t forgive me if I don’t respond to them because it is their call,” he said.
The politician subsequently urged his supporters to intensify grassroots engagement by reaching out directly to residents.
“Let’s go to the field. If I fail, they will know that I tried my best rather than turning them down,” he stated.
His remarks indicate an emphasis on grassroots mobilisation and service-oriented engagement ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ninolowo concluded his message by praying for peace, progress and prosperity in Agege, Lagos West, Lagos State, the Southwest and Nigeria.
He expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its current challenges and emerge stronger, while urging citizens to remain committed to building a better future for the country.
