Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called on leaders and public office holders to uphold honesty, transparency and accountability, describing governance as a sacred responsibility.
Sanwo-Olu made the call on Monday at the opening of the second session of the 36th Synod of the Diocese of Lagos, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), held at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
The governor, who was accompanied by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, said leadership should be approached as stewardship that would be judged both in time and eternity.
“Public office is a stewardship that will be examined both in time and in eternity,” he said, stressing that true leadership must be anchored on integrity and responsibility.
Speaking on the synod theme, “The Doctrine of Salvation (Soteriology) and the Doctrine of End-Time (Eschatology): Their Relevance and Our Response to Them Today,” Sanwo-Olu described it as timely, especially given the nation’s current socio-economic challenges.
He noted that rising cost of living, economic uncertainty and widespread anxiety among citizens make the message of hope and accountability more relevant.
According to him, the principles of salvation and accountability form the foundation for ethical leadership, transparent governance and responsible public service.
“Without that anchor, leadership becomes a private enterprise; with it, leadership becomes a sacred trust,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu also outlined achievements of his administration under the THEMES Plus Agenda, covering transportation, healthcare, education, economic growth, security and governance, with emphasis on sustainability and social inclusion.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for initiating reforms aimed at driving national development and urged continued prayers for the country’s leadership.
In his address, the Diocesan Bishop, Ifedola Okupevi, praised the Lagos State Government for strides in infrastructure, healthcare, education and economic development.
Okupevi also urged Christians to play active roles in the 2027 general elections, calling on citizens to reject vote-selling, violence and divisive politics.
“As the Church, we must not be silent. We must pray, speak boldly and act justly,” the bishop said, emphasising the need for righteousness in nation-building.
The synod also featured the presentation of gifts to Governor Sanwo-Olu, his deputy and the Special Adviser on Christian Matters, Very Revd. Bukola Adeleke, in appreciation of their support for the Church.
