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.
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.”
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.
Business3 years ago
