Babajide Sanwo-Olu Biography: Age, Career, Spouse, Net Worth

Profiling Babajide Sanwo-Olu

Babajide Sanwo-Olu Biography

Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu is a Nigerian politician who has served as the Governor of Lagos State since May 29, 2019. He won the gubernatorial election as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), defeating the incumbent governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, in the party’s primaries. His victory marked the beginning of his leadership in one of Nigeria’s most dynamic and economically significant states.

Born on June 25, 1965, Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s early life and upbringing have had a profound influence on his career. He was born and raised in Lagos, where he gained a deep understanding of the city’s unique challenges and opportunities. His academic background is in the fields of economics and public administration. He attended the University of Lagos, where he earned a degree in Economics, and later pursued a Master’s degree in Public Administration at the prestigious Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Sanwo-Olu also attended several other global institutions, furthering his expertise in management and governance.

Before venturing into politics, Babajide Sanwo-Olu built an extensive career in banking and public service. He worked in several prominent financial institutions, gaining valuable experience that contributed to his later success in government. Sanwo-Olu’s career in the private sector allowed him to develop a keen understanding of fiscal management and corporate governance, skills that have proven vital in his governance of Lagos State.

In the political sphere, Babajide Sanwo-Olu first gained significant attention through his involvement in the Lagos State government. He served in various capacities, including as the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC) and as the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget. These roles gave him a deep insight into the workings of Lagos State, and he was well-positioned to lead the state when he ran for governor.

As Governor of Lagos State, Sanwo-Olu has focused on a variety of developmental programs, including urban renewal, infrastructural development, transportation, and healthcare. One of his flagship initiatives is the “THEMES” agenda, an acronym that stands for Traffic Management and Transportation, Health and Environment, Education and Technology, Making Lagos a 21st-Century Economy, Entertainment and Tourism, and Security and Governance. Under his leadership, Lagos has seen improvements in public transportation, with the expansion of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and the continued development of the Blue and Red Line rail projects. Sanwo-Olu’s administration has also prioritized the welfare of Lagosians, implementing policies aimed at improving healthcare delivery, providing affordable housing, and fostering an environment conducive to economic growth.

In addition to his work as governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu is known for his commitment to public service and his dedication to the betterment of Lagos. He is married to Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, and together they have children. The governor’s personal life reflects his strong family values and his commitment to serving the people of Lagos with integrity and diligence.

Throughout his career, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has remained focused on improving Lagos State’s infrastructure, advancing technology, and promoting sustainable development. His tenure has been marked by both progress and challenges, but he continues to work tirelessly to position Lagos as a leading global city.

Early Life & Education

Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the current Governor of Lagos State, was born on June 25, 1965, in Lagos, Nigeria. He grew up in Lagos, where he was nurtured in an environment that would later influence his commitment to public service and development. His early education began at the Government Demonstration School in Gbaja, Surulere, a vibrant area in Lagos. After completing his primary education, he moved on to secondary school at Ijebu-Ife Grammar School, located in Ogun State, where he laid the foundation for his academic success.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s academic journey continued at the University of Lagos, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Surveying. His time at the University of Lagos not only honed his technical and analytical skills but also set the stage for his future involvement in both the public and private sectors. His academic excellence did not stop at his undergraduate studies; he furthered his education by obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the same university, strengthening his leadership and management abilities.

Sanwo-Olu’s pursuit of education did not end with his degrees in Nigeria. To expand his knowledge and gain a more global perspective, he attended some of the world’s most respected institutions. These include the London Business School, Lagos Business School, and the Institute of Management Development, where he gained expertise in business, leadership, and strategic management. Additionally, he attended the prestigious John F. Kennedy School of Government, further enriching his understanding of governance, public policy, and leadership. His education at these top-tier institutions helped shape the framework for his governance style, grounded in a global outlook with local relevance.

Through his extensive education and training, Babajide Sanwo-Olu acquired a broad skill set in management, finance, governance, and leadership. His academic achievements and international exposure have played a crucial role in his approach to leading Lagos State, enabling him to tackle the challenges of one of Africa’s largest and most dynamic urban centers with both innovation and strategic insight.

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Age

Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, was born on June 25, 1965, making him 59 years old as of 2024

State of Origin

Babajide Sanwo-Olu hails from Lagos State, Nigeria. Although he was born in Lagos, he is deeply connected to the state and its development. His extensive career in public service and governance has been primarily focused on improving the infrastructure and economy of Lagos State, where he continues to serve as the Governor.

Career

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, born on June 25, 1965, is a Nigerian politician who currently serves as the Governor of Lagos State. He is a seasoned leader with a rich career spanning various sectors. Before venturing into politics, he worked as the treasurer at the Lead Merchant Bank from 1994 to 1997. Sanwo-Olu holds a B.Sc. in Surveying and an MBA from the University of Lagos and has furthered his education at prestigious institutions like the John F. Kennedy School of Government, London Business School, and Lagos Business School.

Sanwo-Olu’s political journey began in 2003 when he served as a Special Adviser on Corporate Matters to Femi Pedro, the then-deputy governor of Lagos. He held several key positions in Lagos State, including acting Commissioner for Economic Planning & Budget, Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, and Commissioner for Establishments, Training, and Pensions. In 2016, he was appointed as the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC). His political ascent culminated in his victory as the Governor of Lagos State in 2019.

Under his leadership, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has initiated several transformative projects, including the Lagos Security Trust Fund, the Lagos Asset Management Limited (LAGBUS), and infrastructural projects like the 37km Fourth Mainland Bridge. His administration has been marked by efforts to boost economic growth, enhance security, and improve public services​

Personal Life

Babajide Sanwo-Olu , the Governor of Lagos State, is married to Ibijoke Carrena Sanwo-Olu. The couple has been together for many years, with their union being blessed with four children, comprising two boys and two girls. While Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Ibijoke Carrena Sanwo-Olu maintain a relatively private life regarding the details of their family life, it is clear that their relationship is one marked by stability and mutual support.

Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, his wife, is known to be a key supporter of her husband’s political career. As the First Lady of Lagos State, she has taken on various responsibilities, focusing particularly on initiatives that cater to the welfare of women and children in the state. Despite the significant public roles both she and her husband occupy, they have managed to keep much of their personal life out of the public spotlight, leading a relatively low-profile existence away from the political arena.

Their marriage has been an enduring one, and they have successfully balanced their personal life with the demands of their professional roles. The Sanwo-Olu family, through their public and private actions, reflects a sense of unity and commitment, values that Babajide Sanwo-Olu frequently emphasizes in his leadership of Lagos State.

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Net Worth

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, was born on June 25, 1965, making him 59 years old as of 2024. His estimated net worth is around $9 million​

Social Media

• Instagram: @Jidesanwoolu
• Twitter: @Jidesanwoolu