As the number two citizen in Lagos state, the Deputy Governor plays an important role in supporting the Governor in managing the affairs of the state. Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the current Deputy Governor of Lagos state, was sworn in on May 29, 2019; he was also sworn in for a second term in 2023.

But his rise to prominence didn’t happen overnight. Read on to learn more about the remarkable life of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.

Biography of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State

Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat’s journey to becoming the Deputy Governor of Lagos State is truly inspiring. Born and raised in Lagos, he has always been deeply connected to the needs and aspirations of the people. With a strong educational background, he possesses the knowledge and expertise to contribute significantly to the development of the state.

Dr. Hamzat’s academic achievements are remarkable. His passion for learning and dedication to acquiring knowledge have been instrumental in shaping his career. Prior to assuming the role of Deputy Governor, Dr. Hamzat had a successful career in both the private and public sectors. Dr. Hamzat’s leadership skills are evident in his ability to foster collaboration and drive positive change. He has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Lagosians.

As Deputy Governor, Dr. Hamzat continues to make significant contributions to the development of Lagos State. He is actively involved in initiatives aimed at improving healthcare, education, and infrastructure, among others. His passion for sustainable development and his commitment to creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive is evident in his actions and policies.

Early Life and Education of the Deputy Governor

The Deputy Governor of Lagos state, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, was born on September 19, 1964, in Lagos state. He was born into the late Oba Mufutau Olatunji Hamzat and the late Alhaja Kehinde Hamzat of Iga Egbe, Lagos State.

His father, Mufutau Olatunji Hamzat, was a renowned politician. Prior to becoming the Vice-chairman (South West) of the previous Alliance for Democracy (AD), his father, Late Oba Mufutau Olatunji Hamzat, served as a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly and as the state’s Commissioner for Transportation (1979–1983). Through his maternal royal ancestry, he rose to become the Action Congress’s senatorial district leader for Lagos West and a crowned king.

He had his primary education at Odu-Abore Memorial Primary School in Mushin, Lagos State, Nigeria, and his secondary education at Oyo State’s Olivet Baptist High School. He earned a degree in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Ibadan in 1986, followed by a master’s degree in the same field in 1988. At Cranfield University in England, he earned his PhD in System Process Engineering in 1992.

With such an impressive education, it’s no wonder Hamzat rose to become the Deputy Governor of Lagos, helping Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu carry out his duties.

Early Career

Obafemi worked with RTP Consulting Services, Columbia University, Merrill Lynch Inc., Morgan Stanley, and Oando Plc. He held the positions of group head IT strategist and chief information officer at Oando Plc.

Political Career and Experience

Dr. Hamzat was appointed Commissioner for Science and Technology in August 2005, during the administration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Hamzat was reappointed Commissioner for Science and Technology by Governor Fashola in 2007. He worked to promote access to technology and innovation in Lagos State. Under his leadership, the state government provided free Wi-Fi access in public parks and supported initiatives to teach computer skills and coding to students.

While serving as the Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr. Hamzat implemented the use of modern technologies in the state’s ministries. This revolutionized data and record keeping in Lagos and effectively ended the practice of state ghost labor. Dr. Hamzat’s ministry completed a number of key mega-city projects for Lagos State while carrying out his duties.

In 2015, Hamzat was appointed as the Special Adviser on Works to the Honourable Minister of Works, Power, and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola. He resigned from that position in September 2018 to run for governor of Lagos state.

Dr Hamzat emerged as the running partner for Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for whom he had stepped down during the primaries. Sanwo-Olu went on to be the party’s nominee and, later, Governor. Dr Hamzat was declared Deputy Governor of Lagos State by the Independent National Electoral Commission on March 10, 2019, following the election, and was given a Certificate of Return. They both campaigned again in 2023 and won the election.

Key Achievements and Impact So Far

Since assuming office in May 2019, Dr. Hamzat has overseen several key achievements and impacted Lagos State in many positive ways.

Some of his major accomplishments so far include improving the ease of doing business in Lagos by reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks, launching new technology and innovation hubs to support startups, and boosting infrastructure development across the state. He has also supported Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration in strengthening the health, education and transportation sectors through various policy reforms and interventions.

Personal Life

Dr Hamzat is married to Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat; they are blessed with lovely children. Despite his busy career, he values his family and tries to maintain a balance between work and personal life.

What are the key responsibilities of the Deputy Governor?

As the deputy to the Governor, the Deputy Governor assists in overseeing the day-to-day operations of Lagos State. Their main role is to support the Governor in decision-making and help carry out important governmental functions. The Deputy Governor also acts as Governor when the Governor is unable to perform their duties.

List of all Lagos State Deputy Governors From 1979-2023

The Deputy Governor position was created to support the Governor in managing the affairs of the State. Here is a list of all Deputy Governors of Lagos State from 1979 to 2023:

Rafiu Jafojo (1979-1983)
Lateefat Okunnu (1990-1991)
Sinatu Ojikutu (1992-1993)
Kofoworola Bucknor (29th of May 1999 – 29th May, 2003)
Femi Pedro (29th of May 2003 – 29th May, 2007)
Sarah Adebisi Sosan (29th of May 2007 – 29th May 2011)
Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire (29th of May 2011 – 29th May, 2015)
Oluranti Adebule (29th of May 2015 – 29th May, 2019)
Femi Hamzat (29th of May 2019 – 29th May, 2027)

Conclusion

Dr. Hamzat’s journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance and a commitment to public service. His progressive policies and youthful energy are shaping the future of Lagos at a rapid pace.

Though his political star continues to rise, Dr. Hamzat remains focused on the task at hand: improving lives and making Lagos a model megacity. His story should inspire us all to dream big, work hard and stay dedicated to building a better society. The future is bright for Lagos under the leadership of visionaries like Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.