Sanwo-Olu courts investors at Invest Lagos Summit

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has intensified efforts to attract local and foreign investments, describing Lagos as Africa’s leading gateway for trade, innovation, infrastructure development and economic growth.

Speaking at the opening of the third edition of the Invest Lagos Summit 3.0 on Monday, Sanwo-Olu said the state remains strategically positioned to take advantage of opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the global economy.

The summit brought together government officials, investors, development partners and business leaders to explore investment opportunities across key sectors of the economy.

According to the governor, Lagos’ population of over 25 million and its expanding economy provide a strong foundation for investment and sustainable growth.

He noted that investments in transportation, technology, agriculture and human capital development have strengthened the state’s competitiveness, while major infrastructure projects continue to boost connectivity and productivity.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted landmark projects such as the Blue and Red Rail Lines, ongoing construction of the Green Line, expansion of digital infrastructure and efforts to position Lagos as Africa’s premier financial hub.

“Our ambition is to build a human-centred global city where innovation thrives, businesses flourish and opportunities abound for young people seeking to contribute meaningfully to economic development,” he said.

The governor added that Lagos is increasingly attracting support from development finance institutions, multilateral agencies and private investors, stressing that strategic partnerships are essential to achieving long-term economic transformation.

He said the success of the summit would be measured by tangible outcomes, including investments secured, jobs created and improvements in citizens’ lives.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), Lord Marland, expressed confidence in Lagos’ economic potential, describing the state as Nigeria’s economic heartbeat and a city capable of driving solutions to global challenges.

Marland said issues such as trade disruptions, energy security, food supply and climate resilience require innovative leadership, adding that Nigeria possesses the resources and entrepreneurial capacity to play a leading role.

“This is the moment for Lagos, Nigeria and the Commonwealth to demonstrate leadership and provide practical solutions that will shape future economic growth and prosperity,” he said.

Earlier, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, described Lagos as Africa’s most dynamic commercial centre and Nigeria’s economic powerhouse.

She said Invest Lagos has evolved into one of Africa’s leading sub-national investment platforms, connecting investors with opportunities in infrastructure, healthcare, technology, manufacturing, agriculture and logistics.

Ambrose-Medebem reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sustaining an investor-friendly environment through policy reforms, public-private partnerships and strategic infrastructure investments.

“Lagos is open for business, partnerships and investments. The opportunities, talent, leadership and market needed to support transformative ventures are here,” she said.

The summit attracted governors, diplomats, financiers, development institutions and corporate executives from Nigeria and abroad, with participants exploring partnerships aimed at accelerating economic growth and development.