Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged Nigerian youths to cultivate good character and use their talents, creativity and ingenuity to contribute meaningfully to the development of the country.
Sanwo-Olu gave the charge on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at the 2026 International Youth Conference of the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Movement, held at the church’s international headquarters in Ijesha, Lagos State.
The governor, who was represented at the conference by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, said young Nigerians must not remain indifferent to the growth and development of the country. He encouraged them to channel their creativity and talents towards positive and productive activities that would benefit society.
The four-day conference, themed “Youth That Knows the Lord,” began Friday, August 28, and drew millions of youth participants. Sanwo-Olu expressed pleasure at being part of the event, noting the strong sense of faith visible among attendees.
He praised the church’s leadership for organizing a gathering built around shared faith and common purpose, and encouraged participants to deepen their relationship with God and let that faith guide their character.Character, the governor stressed, is the most valuable asset any young person can hold — arguing that talent, intelligence, education, and connections all lose their worth without integrity behind them.
Turning to opportunity, Sanwo-Olu described Lagos as fertile ground for young entrepreneurs and innovators, pointing to the state’s various youth empowerment programs as a resource for turning ideas into viable businesses. He urged attendees to leverage these platforms and use technology to make a mark — for themselves, their families, and the nation.
Also addressing the gathering, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, General Overseer of the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministry, offered prayers for both the governor and Lagos State, while encouraging the youth to stay resilient, steadfast in faith, and committed to meaningful societal contribution.
The conference closed Sunday with a thanksgiving service, capping several days of worship, prayer, and testimonies of breakthrough among participants.
Hadizat Giwa