Lagos occupies a pivotal position as the primary economic hub of Africa. As Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu nears the conclusion of his second term, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has aligned behind Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat for the 2027 election. For the private sector, Hamzat represents a candidate who pairs policy continuity with a deep understanding of corporate operational realities.
Dr. Hamzat possesses a significant private-sector background, having held leadership roles at institutions including Morgan Stanley, Merrill Lynch, and Oando Plc. His expertise in systems engineering and IT strategy served as the foundation for his entry into public service in 2005. As a commissioner in Lagos, he was responsible for pioneering the state’s digital transformation, effectively utilizing Oracle ERP systems to increase transparency and eliminate fiscal waste.
Throughout his time in government, including his tenure as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Hamzat has advocated for public–private partnerships (PPPs). He has been instrumental in major regional developments such as the Lekki–Ikoyi Link Bridge and various rail projects. His approach emphasizes long-term fiscal stability and the use of blended financing to ensure that infrastructure goals remain consistent across different political administrations.
Business leaders increasingly view Hamzat as an ally due to his commitment to regulatory efficiency and smart-city initiatives. His Digital Lagos 2.0 vision seeks to integrate advanced technology into the local economy, aiming to solidify the city’s status as a tech innovation leader. With the backing of key political figures and a track record of supporting MSMEs and industrial growth, Hamzat is viewed by many investors as a pragmatic choice for maintaining the economic momentum of Nigeria’s commercial center.
