By John Silas, Lagos
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has projected Lagos as Africa’s foremost destination for business, innovation and economic growth, describing the state as a gateway to the continent’s economic future and a strategic hub for global investment and trade.
The President made the assertion on Monday at the opening of the third edition of Invest Lagos, tagged Invest Lagos 3.0, held in Lagos.
The event, themed “Lagos: Business Gateway to Africa, Powering Africa’s Next Era of Trade, Talent and Global Economic Leadership,” was organised by the Lagos State Government in partnership with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council.
The forum attracted top government officials, global and continental leaders, policymakers, investors, business executives and development partners. The Federal Government, alongside the governors of Lagos, Abia, Imo, Nasarawa and Plateau states, used the platform to showcase investment opportunities in key sectors of the economy and encourage local and foreign investors to take advantage of emerging prospects.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu said Lagos has sustained its status as Africa’s commercial nerve centre through deliberate economic policies, strong institutions and a business-friendly environment that continues to attract multinational corporations and foreign direct investment.
He noted that Nigeria possesses the population strength, entrepreneurial talent and economic potential required to rank among the world’s largest economies by 2050, provided the country continues to invest in innovation, infrastructure and effective leadership.
The President also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to working closely with state governments and the private sector to improve infrastructure, expand trade opportunities and enhance the ease of doing business across the country.
In his opening address, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said his administration has consistently implemented policies aimed at attracting investment, supporting innovation and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
According to him, Lagos remains focused on building a resilient economy capable of attracting both domestic and international investors while creating jobs and economic opportunities for its growing population.
“Lagos remains committed to building a resilient economy capable of attracting local and international investors while creating opportunities for our people,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu also called for increased private-sector participation in critical sectors of the economy, including rail transportation, energy, agriculture and agro-processing, stressing that strategic investments in these areas would accelerate economic growth and strengthen Lagos’ position as Africa’s leading investment destination.
The Invest Lagos initiative is designed to showcase the state’s economic potential, attract capital inflows and deepen partnerships that will drive sustainable growth and development.
