Speeches

20th Annivesary Of The Tragic Death Of Samuel Okwaraji Held At National Stadium, Surulere

Aug 12, 2009 - In a year when we have elected to spend more time and resources on matters which concern young people and women, it is a welcome coincidence that the 20th Anniversary of Sam Okwaraji’s transition happens to be Y2009.

From that tragic day on the 12 August in 1989, we gather to celebrate a young man who led his peers by example. He was the model patriot for this country. He was immensely educated and truly talented as a sportsman.

Literally, Sam was ready to die for this country and I believe he demonstrated that before he died and by the circumstances leading to his death.

We gather here to celebrate him as a true Nigeria hero, as we have celebrated Alhaji Jakande, M. K. O. Abiola, Justice Muri-Okunola and many of our living and departed patriots.

In doing this, we hope that we are able to impact the values of public and national service to the present generation of Nigerian youths.

On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, we affirm that the labours of our heroes past will not be in vain.

Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN
Lagos State Governor