​Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu: First Lady of Lagos State

Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State and wife of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, brings a distinguished professional background to her role. Born in Popo Aguda, Lagos Island, she is a thoroughbred medical practitioner and administrator. She obtained her Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from the University of Lagos and further augmented her expertise with advanced degrees, including a Post-Graduate Diploma in Hospital and Health Management (PGDHM), a Master's in Public Health (MPH), and a Master's in Business Administration (MBA).

Prior to assuming the role of First Lady, Dr. Sanwo-Olu dedicated over 25 years to public service within the Lagos State Government's healthcare system. She rose steadily through the ranks, holding significant administrative positions that honed her skills in healthcare delivery and management. Her esteemed roles included serving as the Chief Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer at facilities such as the Harvey Road Comprehensive Health Centre in Yaba and the General Hospital in Somolu. This extensive experience as a practitioner and administrator provides a deep, hands-on understanding of the public health challenges facing Lagos residents.

As First Lady, Dr. Sanwo-Olu has channeled her passion into tireless advocacy for the rights and welfare of women and children, making this the cornerstone of her tenure. She is a vocal champion against all forms of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and domestic abuse. Her active involvement in supporting the establishment of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency and the Sex Offenders Register demonstrates her commitment to creating a safer environment and ensuring accountability for perpetrators.

​Leveraging her public health expertise, Dr. Sanwo-Olu has actively supported and spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access and educational outcomes. She has been deeply involved in the Lagos State Healthy Bee Project, which provides free medical interventions, screenings, and surgeries to underserved communities across the state. Furthermore, she uses her platform to promote key state projects, such as raising awareness about the Lagos State Health Insurance Scheme and leading the 'Adopt-A-Student Project' to provide financial support and scholarships to underprivileged students.

Dr. Sanwo-Olu also plays a critical role as the Chairman of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), a community-based gender organization. Under her leadership, COWLSO focuses on complementing the state government's efforts through grassroots engagement, empowerment programs, and organizing the annual National Women Conference. Her work through COWLSO, coupled with her support for vocational training and grants for residents, underscores her dedication to improving the lives of Lagosians and aligning her pet projects with the overarching developmental agenda of the state administration.