Cambridge, USA —the Governor of the Centre of Excellence (Lagos), Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged international investors to consider Lagos as a prime destination for business, citing the state’s population size, expansive infrastructure projects, strategic coastal position, and supportive business climate.
Speaking to a packed classroom at Harvard Business School during a session of Professor Hakeem Belo-Osagie’s course, “Understanding Africa: Business, Entrepreneurship, Political Economy and the Complexities of a Continent,” the Governor presented a strong case for Africa’s most populous city.
“Lagos is a land of opportunities where people arrive with little and rise through hard work. It’s a major hub for commerce in West Africa,” Sanwo-Olu told the students, who responded with repeated rounds of applause.
The Governor delivered a presentation themed “Building the Future: Lagos State Infrastructure-led Transformation,” highlighting current projects across key sectors such as transportation, housing, education, technology, and healthcare.
He noted the success of the Blue Line rail, which has transported over two million passengers since its launch, and added that the Red Line is now operational, adding that construction will soon begin on the Green Line, linking Lekki-Epe to Lagos Island, and a new airport is also in the pipeline for the Lekki corridor.
On education, Sanwo-Olu revealed that two new universities have been launched, with a third — focused on medical sciences, expected soon to address shortages in the health sector.
He described Lagos as a growing technology hub, driven by a youthful, digital-savvy population. “If a global tech giant needs to hire 10,000 engineers, we want Lagos to be the first name that comes to mind,” he said, referencing the state’s long-term development agenda aimed at building a people-focused economy.
In the creative sector, the Governor pointed to recent international recognition. A Lagos-based film, he noted, has been shortlisted for screening at the Cannes Film Festival, while fashion and theatre continue to draw global attention. Efforts are underway to organize cultural events throughout the year to boost tourism and entertainment.
He added that In the housing sector, over 3,000 new units have been delivered, and more than 1,000 roads constructed or rehabilitated while cleaner transport is also on the horizon, with more compressed natural gas (CNG) buses expected soon.
Sanwo-Olu also shared updates on healthcare, including the construction of a new general hospital, a mental health and rehabilitation facility, and a children’s hospital set to be the largest of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa.
A short video showcasing Lagos’ skyline and economic activities preceded the Governor’s remarks, setting the tone for his engagement with the audience.
When quizzed about Nigeria’s energy landscape, Sanwo-Olu discussed the ongoing reforms that now allow states to oversee power generation and distribution. “The playing field is now open. Investors can partner with us directly to serve designated areas,” he said.
As he wrapped up his talk, Sanwo-Olu encouraged the students — many of whom are future business leaders — to look to Lagos as the next frontier. “While others have reached full capacity, Lagos is still expanding. This is where the next big opportunities lie,” he concluded.
