Lagos state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, was recently presented with a special episcopal award by the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), diocese of Lagos, for his “monumental achievements” in all sectors and sections of the state in the last four years.
The award presentation took place at Our Saviours Church, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Onikan, on Monday 6th May 2019.
Speaking during the presentation, Humphrey Olumakaiye, the diocesan bishop, described governor Ambode as an administrator with a patriotic drive who, through hard work and grace, rose to become distinguished among his peers.
He said the governor deserved to be appreciated for excellent performance and selfless service to God and humanity.
He commended the governor for always identifying with the church, saying it was an eloquent indication of his love and undying passion for God and humanity.
“We are very proud of you for taking Lagos state much higher. You have proved beyond doubts that there is great hope for a better Nigeria through your transformational touch in this state,” Olumakaiye said.
“You are a man of courage who believes in possibilities against all odds; a man of focus and dignity. We are indeed very proud of you and we pray that God will grant your heart desires and take you to the next level of your political career.
“Today, we have decided to honour you in due recognition of your exceptional achievements as our governor.”
On his part, Adebola Ademowo, immediate past bishop of the diocese, said governor Ambode’s name was already written in gold.
“I want to congratulate our Governor for a very successful tenure. Your name has been written in gold and I do hope that Abuja will do something,” Ademowo said.
Responding, governor Ambode thanked residents and faith-based organizations for cooperating with his administration to maintain law and order, saying it is on record that there was no single religious conflict in the state in the last four years.
The governor said he was particularly proud of the relationship and massive support extended to him by religious leaders which, according to him, resulted in peaceful co-existence and progress of the State.
“To our Fathers in the Lord and clergymen, I thank you for all you have done to move Lagos forward in the past four years of my administration. I am proud of the relationship and support that has yielded the peaceful co-existence and atmosphere of love and brotherhood. For me, this is the strongest plank upon which the progress we have achieved rests,” he said.
“It is also on record that no single religious conflict was recorded in the last four years. The peaceful co-existence of all religious sects is a testimony of our collective heritage in the state.
“As our administration makes way for another, I ask for your continued support and prayers for the incoming government, the governor-elect, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his team.”