Governor Sanwo-Olu Calls on Global Investors to Leverage Lagos’ Infrastructure Boom
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has issued a high level call to local and international investors to capitalise on the extensive economic opportunities within Lagos State, positioning the city as Africa’s premier destination for high impact capital. Speaking on Monday, 2 February 2026, at the Nigeria-UAE Investment Forum (Investopia Global Africa), the Governor highlighted the state’s readiness to partner with the private sector to drive sustainable development.
Hosted by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, the forum served as a platform for Sanwo-Olu to showcase the strategic infrastructure projects completed over the last six years, which he noted have fundamentally reshaped the state’s investment landscape.
Strategic Projects Driving the "African Model"
Governor Sanwo-Olu identified several cornerstone projects that are currently strengthening Lagos' status as a global commercial hub. Key among these is the Lekki Deep Sea Port, which is already enhancing trade efficiency. He further revealed that the state is actively investing in the Badagry Port to complement existing maritime capacity.
Other major upcoming projects mentioned include:
The Lagos International Financial Centre (LIFC): A project designed to mirror the success of global hubs like the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). Sanwo-Olu noted that the centre has already garnered significant global support since the journey began in 2023.
Logistics & Agribusiness Hub: Plans are underway for Nigeria’s largest logistics hub to ensure agribusiness markets are efficiently served from Lagos.
International Airport: A new international airport project is being advanced to boost connectivity and handle the state's growing passenger and cargo demands.
Commitments to Security and "Zero Red Tape"
Addressing potential investor concerns, the Governor emphasised that his administration has prioritised a safe and secure environment, which he described as the "fundamental basis for serious investment." He also pledged to continue removing bureaucratic bottlenecks to facilitate ease of entry for businesses.
“I want to assure investors that Lagos is a willing partner. Whatever red tape exists, we are removing it,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
The Governor’s remarks come on the heels of recent reports that Lagos has moved to the first position in the national Ease of Doing Business rankings, a jump from 29th place four years ago.
Economic Outlook: The ₦4.27 Trillion Ambition
The investment drive aligns with the recently proposed 2026 "Budget of Shared Prosperity," which earmarks ₦4.27 trillion for state expenditure. With over 52% of the budget dedicated to capital projects, the state is heavily focused on integrating infrastructure—moving from simply building roads and rails to creating a seamless, tech driven urban ecosystem.
State officials noted that Lagos secured approximately ₦1 trillion in new investment in 2025, and with the current outreach to UAE-based investors and the World Bank, that figure is projected to grow significantly in 2026.
