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By Cllr Tunde Ajisola

Lagos State has once again taken centre stage in Nigeria’s political conversation. As the election cycle gradually gathers momentum across the country, the atmosphere in Lagos is charged with anticipation.

From the party faithful to everyday citizens, discussions about who will succeed Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2027 are becoming louder, sharper, and more deliberate.

In markets, boardrooms, campuses, and political gatherings, one question dominates: who has the capacity, the competence, and the character to lead Lagos into its next phase?

With Governor Sanwo-Olu set to conclude his second term, attention has firmly shifted to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its yet-to-be-released primary guidelines.

Yet, even before formal declarations and alignments begin in earnest, two prominent names continue to dominate conversations- former Governor Akinwumi Ambode and the incumbent Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.

But beyond the names and political permutations lies a more fundamental question: what does Lagos truly need at this critical juncture?

Lagos is no longer just a state; it is a megacity of global relevance. It is a complex ecosystem, economically vibrant, socially dynamic, and infrastructurally stretched. The pressures of rapid urbanisation, population explosion, transportation bottlenecks, housing deficits, and environmental sustainability are no longer abstract concerns; they are lived realities for millions of residents.

At such a time, Lagos does not just need a politician. It needs a technocrat, someone who understands systems, data, planning, and execution at scale.

It needs a leader who combines intellectual depth with administrative experience, innovation with continuity, and vision with practical delivery. This is where Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat stands out.

Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, fondly known as KOH, was not shaped by chance. His journey reflects a deliberate cultivation of knowledge, discipline, and exposure.

Born into a respected political family, he began his early education at Odu-Abore Memorial Primary School in Mushin and later attended Olivet Baptist High School in Oyo.

His academic brilliance led him to the University of Ibadan, where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Agricultural Engineering. Driven by a quest for deeper knowledge, he proceeded to Cranfield University in the United Kingdom, where he obtained a PhD in Systems Process Engineering, a discipline that focuses on optimising complex systems, improving efficiency, and solving large-scale problems.

This academic background is not just impressive; it is directly relevant to governance in a megacity like Lagos, where challenges require systemic thinking and data-driven solutions.

His early professional experiences in the United Kingdom and the United States further broadened his worldview, exposing him to advanced systems, institutional efficiency, and global best practices.

One of the most defining moments in Dr Hamzat’s journey came during an encounter with then-Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

While visiting his father, the late Oba Mufutau Olatunji Hamzat, Tinubu was introduced to his son. What followed was more than a casual meeting; it was a moment of recognition.

Tinubu, known for identifying and nurturing talents, immediately saw something exceptional. His message was simple but profound: Lagos needed him, and that call to service would mark the beginning of a remarkable journey in public administration.

Upon his return to Nigeria, Dr Hamzat briefly worked with Oando, where he served as Group Head of IT. However, his transition into public service would define his legacy.

As Commissioner for Science and Technology in Lagos State, he brought a rare blend of technical expertise and reformist zeal. At a time when public sector inefficiencies were widespread, he introduced transformative digital solutions that redefined governance processes.

One of his most notable achievements was leading the implementation of Oracle-based systems for Lagos State workers.

This was not just an IT project; it was a structural reform. The result was clear: it included eliminating ghost workers, removing fraudulent payroll practices, achieving significant financial savings for the state, and enhancing transparency and accountability.

The impact was so profound that Lagos became a model for other states. Delegations from across Nigeria visited to understudy the system, reinforcing Lagos’ reputation as a leader in governance innovation.

Dr Hamzat’s impact did not end in the digital space. His tenure as Commissioner for Works further demonstrated his capacity for large-scale execution.

He oversaw and delivered critical infrastructure projects that continue to define Lagos’ landscape. Among them is the iconic Ikoyi Link Bridge, a landmark project that symbolises connectivity, innovation, and modern urban development.

Beyond the physical structures, his approach to infrastructure was strategic, focused on long-term value, efficiency and sustainability.

Governance is not theoretical; it is practical, complex, and deeply demanding. Dr Hamzat’s journey reflects a steady accumulation of relevant experience. He served as Special Adviser to the former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, when he was minister for Works, gaining firsthand insight into policy formulation and execution at both state and federal levels.

For nearly a decade, he has served as Deputy Governor of Lagos State, working closely with the current administration and playing a central role in governance.

This level of continuity matters as it provides institutional memory, policy consistency, a deep understanding of ongoing projects and the ability to transition seamlessly into leadership. At a time when Lagos cannot afford disruption, this experience becomes a critical asset.

Dr Hamzat is often described as a bridge and rightly so. He connects the political establishment with emerging leaders, experienced policymakers with youthful innovators and traditional governance structures with modern systems. His ability to communicate complex ideas in simple terms makes him relatable across demographics. Whether engaging with technocrats, market traders, or young professionals, he brings clarity, humility, and authenticity.

This has earned him widespread acceptance, particularly among Lagos youths, who see in him a leader who understands both their aspirations and their realities. Across communities, a growing sentiment continues to resonate: “It is Hamzat or nothing.”

Lagos stands at a critical crossroads, and the challenges are clear: rapid population growth, increasing demand for housing and infrastructure, traffic congestion and mobility issues, environmental sustainability concerns and the need for digital transformation in governance.

These are not challenges that can be solved by rhetoric alone. They require data-driven decision-making, efficient systems, measurable outcomes and strategic planning. This is the language of a technocrat.

Dr Hamzat’s background in systems engineering, his track record in public sector reform, and his experience in governance uniquely position him to address these challenges with precision and effectiveness.

As the APC prepares for its primary process, anticipation continues to build. For party members, the decision ahead is not just about selecting a candidate; it is about defining the future of Lagos.

Who can sustain growth while addressing emerging challenges? Who can combine innovation with continuity? Who can deliver not just promises, but results? For many within the party and beyond, the answer is increasingly clear.

Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat represents competence, capacity, and continuity. He embodies the qualities required to lead Lagos into its next phase of development.

Every political cycle presents a moment of choice. For Lagos, 2027 is one of such moments. It is a choice between familiarity and forward-thinking, between routine politics and strategic governance, between aspiration and preparedness.

In a city as complex and critical as Lagos, leadership cannot be left to chance. It must be earned through experience, proven through performance, and defined by vision.

Lagos is ready.

As conversations intensify and alignments begin to take shape, one thing is certain: Lagosians are paying attention, they understand the stakes and recognise the challenges. They are ready for leadership that matches the moment.

In a city that demands innovation, structure, and tested leadership, Lagos does not just need a governor, Lagos needs a technocrat, and in Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, many believe that leader has already emerged.

Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat has arrived, and Lagos is ready.

•Cllr Tunde Ajisola writes from Luton, Bedfordshire, England