Former Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Ladi Lawanson, has been awarded a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration with specialisation in International Business.

Lawanson, whose full name is Akinwale Oladipo Lawanson, received the doctorate on Wednesday, at a ceremony held at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos.

Speaking after receiving the degree, Lawanson said pursuing a doctorate had been a lifelong ambition, adding that the academic journey had equipped him with research and analytical skills that could improve decision making in public service.

He said obtaining a doctorate had strengthened his ability to define problems, gather and analyse data, and develop scientifically driven solutions.

According to him, “having a doctorate means you have research methodology skills to analyse data,” adding that such skills were important for making data driven decisions.

Lawanson said his doctoral research, titled “The Effects of Cargo Distribution Modes and Traffic Congestion on Port Efficiency at the Lekki Deep Sea Port,” was influenced by his experience as Transportation Commissioner.

He recalled the congestion and gridlock experienced at the Apapa Port during his tenure, saying the experience reinforced his interest in understanding the causes of transportation challenges and developing appropriate solutions.

He said the research had equipped him with skills that could be applied in different environments and strengthened his capacity to make informed decisions.

Speaking on leadership and public service, Lawanson urged young Nigerians to take responsibility for the development of the country.

“What drove me to government, and which I encourage all young people to do, is to take ownership of your country,” he said.

He encouraged young people to build their capacity so they could contribute meaningful solutions to challenges facing the country.

Lawanson added that combining academic knowledge with experience in governance could provide an effective platform for developing solutions and making a positive impact in society.