Sanwo-Olu today hosted and formally honoured Miss Etiyemonu Esther, the brilliant student of Lagos State Senior Model College, Igbokuta, Imota, who emerged as the Lagos State One-Day Governor following her outstanding victory in the 21st edition of the Lagos Spelling Bee Competition in 2025.
The ceremony, held at Lagos House, Marina, saw Governor Sanwo-Olu symbolically hand over his seat to Miss Etiyemonu Esther, marking the commencement of her one-day tenure as the symbolic leader of Africa's most populous state.
She was accompanied by her One-Day Deputy Governor, Miss Awoyemi Dorcas, the One-Day Secretary to the State Government, Miss Salami Jumai Olaide, and their proud parents.
In his remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu congratulated the young achiever on her remarkable academic excellence and commended her for exemplifying the values of hard work, discipline, and intellectual pursuit that the Lagos State Government continues to promote through education-focused initiatives.
The Governor highlighted the significance of the One-Day Governor programme, an enduring initiative originally conceived by Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as a lasting legacy to inspire young Nigerians.
He noted that the programme has produced numerous "One-Day Governors" in Lagos State over the years, motivating students to excel in academics while exposing them to leadership, governance, and public service.
"This initiative remains a powerful tool for nurturing future leaders.
By recognising and celebrating academic champions like Miss Etiyemonu Esther, we are investing in the next generation of Lagosians who will drive our state's continued progress," Governor Sanwo-Olu said.
He praised the Lagos State Spelling Bee Competition for serving as a platform to discover and reward talent, reinforcing the administration's commitment to quality education under the T.H.E.M.E.S. developmental agenda.
The Governor encouraged other students across the state to emulate Miss Etiyemonu's dedication and strive for excellence in their studies.
Miss Etiyemonu Esther, in her response, expressed profound gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu for the honour and warm reception.
She described the experience as inspiring and pledged to use the opportunity to advocate for continued improvements in education and youth empowerment in Lagos State.
The event underscores Governor Sanwo-Olu's unwavering dedication to youth development, education, and inclusive governance, ensuring that young talents are recognised, celebrated, and empowered to contribute to a greater Lagos.