Governor Sanwo-Olu says Lagos is a key driver of Africa’s urban growth, shaping innovation, technology, and economic transformation

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has described Lagos as a key driver of Africa’s cities, highlighting the state’s role in shaping the continent’s urban economic future.

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Speaking at the John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum hosted by Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics, Sanwo-Olu said the city’s rapid growth is redefining urban development and innovation across Africa.

Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that Lagos stands at the heart of a continental transformation, asserting that “Lagos’ trajectory is not just aligned with Africa’s rise; it is defining its urban future.” He attributed the city’s success to the THEMES+ agenda, through which his administration delivers projects in transportation, tourism, technology, security, and social inclusion.

“Attracting investment and partnerships is critical as Africa enters historic urban expansion. Lagos is a central force in this growth, home to a youthful population and rising innovation hubs,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The Governor provided key data on Lagos’ development, noting that the state houses over 2,000 startups, five fintech unicorns valued above $1 billion each, and 26 tertiary institutions.

He also highlighted that Lagos attracted $2.73 billion in capital inflows in Q3 2025, accounting for 45 per cent of total national investment.

Sanwo-Olu also discussed urban challenges such as environmental sustainability and waste management, assuring that the government is addressing these issues through comprehensive policies under the THEMES+ blueprint.

The forum, themed “Africa’s Urban Future: Cities at the Crossroads of Growth and Resilience”, gathered global leaders including Zoe Marks, Oppenheimer Faculty Director at Harvard Kennedy School, and Mayor John-Charuk Siafa of Monrovia, Liberia.

Discussions focused on innovative solutions for climate adaptation, governance, infrastructure, and public health in African cities.

Highlighting the impact of population growth, Sanwo-Olu noted, “Lagos accounts for 10 per cent of Nigeria’s population, with 40 per cent of residents aged 15-34. Our rail revolution, tech ecosystem, and growing diaspora engagement are shaping the city as Africa’s beacon of urban progress.”

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The forum reinforced Lagos’ standing as a model for sustainable urbanisation, showcasing how strategic governance, investment, and innovation can drive economic transformation across the continent.