The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Office of Diaspora Affairs (LASDA), ESV Dr. Jermaine Sanwo-Olu, MNIPR, MCIPR, MNIVS, RSV, has attained another academic milestone with the successful completion of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Project Management from the Faculty of Management Technology, Department of Project Management, Lagos State University (LASU).
Dr. Sanwo-Olu was awarded the PhD on Wednesday, 19 August 2026, following the successful completion of his doctoral research on “Diaspora Engagement and Construction Project Performance in Lagos State.”
The research is particularly significant to Lagos State, given the growing importance of diaspora participation in investment, infrastructure development, knowledge transfer and sustainable economic development. It also underscores the potential of strategic diaspora engagement to contribute meaningfully to improved project delivery and development outcomes in the State.
Speaking on the milestone, Dr. Sanwo-Olu described the achievement as “a journey of grace, purpose and perseverance”, noting that it was shaped by experiences of failure, resilience, learning and continuous self-development.
“This journey has been one of learning, research, perseverance and purpose. It is a milestone of purpose, research and impact. I am grateful to God for the grace to continue learning, even while serving, and for the resilience to keep moving forward despite the challenges and failures along the way.”
The new doctorate adds to Dr. Sanwo-Olu’s extensive academic and professional portfolio. He holds a Master of International Law and Diplomacy (MILD) from the University of Lagos (2025), Master of Arts (MA) in Diaspora and Transnational Studies from the University of Ibadan (2023), Master of Science (MSc) in Management from the College de Paris, France (2002), Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert) in Public Relations and Strategic Communications from Leeds Beckett University, United Kingdom (2017), and Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) in International Business Management from Bradford University, United Kingdom (2011).
An Estate Surveyor and Valuer, public relations consultant and development professional, Dr. Sanwo-Olu has combined professional practice, public service, academia and diaspora engagement throughout his career.
He is the pioneer Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Office of Diaspora Affairs, where he has played a significant role in advancing the State’s engagement with Lagosians in the diaspora and strengthening opportunities for diaspora investment, partnerships, knowledge exchange and development.
His latest academic achievement further reinforces his commitment to research-driven public service and the application of knowledge to address practical development challenges facing Lagos State.
The Lagos State Office of Diaspora Affairs congratulates ESV Dr. Jermaine Sanwo-Olu on this remarkable achievement and celebrates his dedication to lifelong learning, professional excellence, research and service to Lagos State.
Congratulations, Dr. Jermaine Sanwo-Olu, on this well-deserved milestone of grace, purpose, perseverance and impact.
Public Affairs Unit
Lagos State Office of Diaspora Affairs (LASDA)