Lagos Reaffirms Commitment to Reforms, Tech-Driven Growth
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has restated his administration’s commitment to deepening reforms that will make Lagos a more efficient, inclusive and technology-driven economy.
Sanwo-Olu made this known during a South Africa–Nigeria Economic Diplomacy Roundtable at MTN Plaza, Ikoyi, on Thursday. The governor was represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.
He said Lagos remained open to partnerships that would bring in capital, technology and expertise to drive growth and development.
According to him, South African businesses have played important roles in the economy of Lagos State, especially in telecommunications, retail market, and finance.
He said the state government hoped to extend the cooperation into sectors such as green manufacturing, renewable energy and digital payments.
Sanwo-Olu also noted that Lagos was focusing on the creative industry, saying that Nollywood and Afrobeats had become global success stories.
“Our creative economy, from the storytelling of Nollywood to the global rhythm of Afrobeats, fashion, digital media, and gaming; continues to create jobs and empower young people,” he said.
The governor listed key infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Badagry Expressway and Lekki Deep Sea Port as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the economy.
He said Lagos had continued to invest in rail expansion, port upgrades, and improved logistics to make the state more attractive to investors.
Sanwo-Olu advised South African investors to explore opportunities in manufacturing, logistics, energy transition and the creative economy, assuring them of the government’s support.
“We see South Africa not as a competitor, but as a collaborator in building a stronger and more connected Africa,” he said.
Earlier, the Deputy Minister of International Relations of South Africa, Ms Thandi Moraka, said her country would continue to work with Nigeria to promote political, economic and developmental cooperation.
She said the roundtable followed the 11th Session of the Bi-National Commission between both nations, which reaffirmed commitment to shared growth through trade and innovation.
Also speaking, Prof. Bobby Moroe, Consular-General of South Africa, said that South African Consulate in Lagos would continue to work with MTN and business chambers to build stronger partnerships between Nigerian and South African companies.
Moroe said such partnerships would boost mutual investments and strengthen the long-standing relationship between the two nations. Lafarge Africa Grows Profit by 246%, Retains Positive Outlook
