Tinubu Projects Lagos as Africa’s Gateway to Global Capital

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has projected Lagos State as a premier destination for business, innovation and investment, describing the state as the gateway to Africa’s economic future and a strategic hub for global capital.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the opening of the third edition of Invest Lagos 3.0 in Lagos, Tinubu highlighted the state’s role as Africa’s commercial nerve centre and a key driver of economic growth on the continent.

The event, themed “Lagos: Business Gateway to Africa, Powering Africa’s Next Era of Trade, Talent and Global Economic Leadership,” brought together government officials, investors, business leaders, policymakers and development partners from across Africa and beyond.

Tinubu urged investors to explore opportunities in critical sectors at both national and subnational levels, assuring them of attractive returns. He noted that Lagos has sustained its leadership position through deliberate policies, strong institutions and a business-friendly environment that continues to attract multinational corporations and foreign investments.

The President said Nigeria possesses the population, entrepreneurial capacity and economic potential to emerge among the world’s largest economies by 2050 if investments in infrastructure, innovation and leadership are sustained.

He also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to partnering with state governments and the private sector to improve infrastructure, expand trade opportunities and strengthen the ease of doing business nationwide.

In his remarks, Babajide Sanwo-Olu said his administration has consistently implemented policies aimed at attracting investments, supporting startups and creating an enabling environment for businesses.

The governor identified transportation, energy, agriculture and agro-processing as sectors with significant investment opportunities. He stressed that addressing Lagos’ infrastructure and mobility challenges would unlock enormous economic potential, boost productivity and improve residents’ incomes.

According to him, efficient rail and water transportation systems remain crucial to the state’s long-term growth and competitiveness.

Sanwo-Olu added that reducing travel time and improving connectivity across Lagos would significantly enhance the ease of doing business and strengthen investor confidence in Africa’s largest commercial city.