Celebrating a Distinguished Public Servant, Leader and Ọmọ Èkó Pàtàkì
Today, I warmly celebrate and congratulate Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat as he marks his 62nd birthday anniversary.
This is not merely a celebration of another year, but an opportunity to honour a distinguished Nigerian, an exemplary leader, a dedicated public servant, a technocrat and a true Ọmọ Èkó Pàtàkì whose years of service have become an important part of the governance and development story of Lagos State.
On this special occasion, I join his family, friends, colleagues, associates, political stakeholders and the many people whose lives have been positively touched by his leadership and service in wishing him a very happy birthday.
Dr. Hamzat’s public-service journey has been marked by responsibility, discipline, intellectual depth and commitment. His service as a Commissioner in Lagos State and subsequently as Deputy Governor has placed him at the centre of several important areas of governance and public administration.
Over the years, he has demonstrated a strong understanding of the complexities of leadership and the responsibilities that come with public office. His approach to service reflects the importance of experience, institutional knowledge, teamwork and dedication to the people.
His contribution to Lagos goes beyond the positions he has occupied. It can also be seen in the policies, programmes and initiatives he has participated in, as well as his engagement with issues concerning infrastructure, education, technology, governance and the broader development of the state. Recent public engagements have also seen him speak on the responsible integration of artificial intelligence into education and the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s human-capital development.
For me personally, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat remains an icon, mentor, source of guidance and an example of purposeful leadership. His humility, wisdom, grit, candour, courage and compassion have made his leadership journey worthy of recognition.
I am particularly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside him and to contribute, in my own capacity, to the collective efforts aimed at building on the progress recorded and advancing the development of Lagos.
At 62, his journey offers another opportunity to reflect on the importance of service, sacrifice, experience and responsibility. Leadership is ultimately measured not only by the offices one occupies, but also by the lives touched, institutions strengthened, ideas promoted and opportunities created for others.
As you celebrate this remarkable milestone, Your Excellency, I pray that Almighty God will continue to bless you with good health, wisdom, strength, vigour, peace and many more fruitful years.
May the years ahead bring greater opportunities to serve humanity, Lagos State and Nigeria. May your wealth of experience continue to contribute to the growth and development of our society, and may your family and loved ones continue to enjoy the rewards of your years of dedication and service.
Once again, happy 62nd birthday, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.
May God Almighty continue to guide, protect and strengthen you.
Congratulations and many happy returns!
— Chief John Okorie