On his 61st birthday, former Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode received heartfelt tributes from Hon. Adeboye Anthony Adeyinka, the Senior Special Assistant to President Tinubu on Grassroots Sports Development.
In a moving celebration, Adeboye praised Ambode as “an exemplary leader and visionary,” whose policies and projects continue to positively impact millions of Lagosians.
Ambode—a seasoned accountant and civil servant who governed Lagos from 2015 to 2019—was feted for his enduring legacy, including transformative infrastructure, effective public finance management, and a commitment to social welfare.
Born on June 14, 1963, in Epe General Hospital, he holds a degree and a master’s in accounting from the University of Lagos, and earned further credentials from institutions such as Harvard’s Kennedy School and Cranfield School of Management .
Adeboye highlighted several landmark initiatives that Ambode championed:
The “Light Up Lagos” campaign, which installed streetlights throughout the state to enhance safety and security .
The commissioning of four performance theatres (Igando, Epe, Badagry, and Oregun), reflecting his investment in arts, tourism, and youth culture .
Major transport infrastructure projects, including the Oshodi Transport Interchange, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Bus Terminal, and the redevelopment of Murtala Mohammed Airport Road, designed to ease congestion and stimulate economic activity .
Iconic monuments like the Epe Fish Statue and the MKO Abiola Statue in Ojota, symbolizing Lagos’s cultural heritage and national identity .
“Ambode’s vision extended beyond building roads and bridges—he built hope, pride, and opportunity for every Lagosian,” said Adeboye, noting that the ex-governor’s leadership continues to influence current initiatives in grassroots sports and community development.
Tributes have been echoed across the state. Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu marked the milestone by acknowledging Ambode’s commitment to public service and infrastructure—awarding him “high praise for the continuous growth and welfare of Lagosians” after his tenure .
As Ambode steps into his 61st year, he remains engaged through his role at Brandsmiths Consulting, his La Roche Leadership Foundation, and numerous public advocacy efforts.
His legacy underlines a rare blend of administrative competence and compassionate governance—values that continue to inspire the current administration’s approach to sports, youth, and urban development.
