The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, today welcomed investors, business leaders, innovators, policymakers, and development partners from across Nigeria and beyond to the third edition of the Invest Lagos Summit, reaffirming the state’s position as Africa’s foremost destination for investment, enterprise and economic transformation.
The summit, tagged Invest Lagos 3.0, commenced at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, bringing together key stakeholders from the public and private sectors to explore opportunities for sustainable economic growth, innovation, infrastructure development and strategic partnerships.
Addressing participants at the opening ceremony, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the summit as a practical demonstration of why Lagos remains the business gateway to Africa, noting that the state continues to attract local and foreign investments due to its vibrant economy, innovative ecosystem, and investor-friendly policies.
According to the Governor, Lagos remains open to bold ideas and transformative investments capable of creating jobs, stimulating growth, and improving the quality of life for residents.
“Through Invest Lagos 3.0, we are showcasing the enormous opportunities available in our state and demonstrating our commitment to making Lagos the preferred destination for business and innovation on the African continent. We are working every day to create an environment where businesses can grow, thrive, and contribute meaningfully to economic development,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
The Governor noted that discussions at the summit focused on practical solutions to challenges confronting businesses across Africa, while also exploring strategies for attracting capital, fostering innovation and strengthening economic resilience.
Sanwo-Olu expressed appreciation to the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima, for honouring the event with his presence and officially declaring the summit open.
He also acknowledged the support of fellow governors, including Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, and Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, whose attendance underscored the importance of collaborative leadership in driving national economic development.
The Governor commended investors, entrepreneurs, development institutions and business executives who participated in the summit, noting that the enthusiasm and engagement displayed by attendees reflected growing confidence in Lagos’ economic future.
“The energy in the room was a strong reminder that despite the challenges we face, the momentum of Lagos remains strong. Our commitment remains unwavering as we continue to build an economy that creates opportunities, attracts investments and delivers prosperity for all,” he added.
In his keynote address, Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized that Nigeria’s aspiration of becoming a one-trillion-dollar economy would be driven by enterprise, investment, innovation, and coordinated reforms at all levels of government.
The Vice President identified Lagos State as a shining example of how visionary subnational leadership can accelerate national economic transformation, describing the state as Nigeria’s foremost economic gateway and one of Africa’s most influential commercial hubs.
According to Shettima, the future of the Nigerian economy depends largely on creating the right conditions for capital, innovation, and productive enterprises to flourish.
“Lagos continues to distinguish itself as a model for economic growth, investment attraction, and private-sector collaboration. The state’s achievements demonstrate what is possible when government creates an enabling environment for businesses and investors,” the Vice President said.
He stressed the need for stronger partnerships between government, investors, development institutions, and entrepreneurs to unlock Nigeria’s economic potential and drive inclusive growth.
The Invest Lagos 3.0 Summit is expected to feature high-level panel discussions, investment sessions, business networking opportunities and strategic engagements aimed at positioning Lagos as Africa’s leading investment destination while fostering partnerships capable of accelerating economic growth across Nigeria and the continent.
Stakeholders at the summit expressed optimism that the conversations and collaborations emerging from the event would translate into tangible investments, increased job creation, and long-term economic prosperity for Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole.
