Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to promoting green business practices and renewable energy in the state.
Governor Sanwo-Olu stated this today at the Opening Ceremony of the Lagos International Trade Fair 2024 with the theme “Connecting Businesses, Creating Value,” held at the Banquet Hall, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos,
Sanwo-Olu who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat noted that his administration has prioritized initiatives that reduce the state’s carbon footprint, conserve its environment, and embrace renewable resources.
According to him “As we work toward building a sustainable future, Lagos is even more committed to promoting green business practices and renewable energy. As part of our goals, we have prioritized initiatives that reduce our carbon footprint, conserve our environment, and embrace renewable resources.”
Speaking further, the governor added that Lagos, with a youthful and dynamic population, is investing heavily in education and skills development to create a pipeline of talent ready to drive innovation, emphasizing that the state is committed to fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and tech-driven growth by supporting incubators, accelerators, and tech hubs that will equip the youth with the skills and resources needed to create solutions that address local and global challenges.
Sanwo-Olu therefore invites all businesses and stakeholders in the country and outside the country to align with the values it created, noting that the government works together with them toward a more sustainable Lagos for generations to come.
“Lagos is open for business, and we invite our partners from across the world to seize the tremendous opportunities available in Nigeria’s largest market. From real estate and energy to finance, agriculture, and technology, Lagos offers immense investment opportunities. I encourage both local and foreign investors to tap into these prospects, as Lagos is not just a gateway to Nigeria but a strategic access point to the economy of the African continent,” he said.
While noting the importance of the theme, which resonates deeply with the collective vision for Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the mission of the state government is to position Lagos as a regional hub and a thriving global marketplace – one that harnesses the energy, resilience, and ingenuity of its people to drive forward economic prosperity and sustainable development,” he said.
He noted that his administration in recent years, in its commitment to creating a business-friendly ecosystem for all businesses, has embarked on ambitious projects aimed at improving infrastructure, transportation systems, and digital connectivity; ranging from expanding the road networks to introducing rapid urban transit solutions and supporting renewable energy initiatives.
In his welcome address, the President, of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Gabriel Idahosa stated that the Lagos International Trade Fair stands as a beacon of opportunity, offering enterprises the platform to showcase resilience-driven solutions, explore synergies, and drive sustainable growth in Nigeria and the wider region.
He disclosed that this year’s Trade Fair holds special importance as Nigeria navigates an era of economic adjustment marked by challenges and opportunities. He added that from the disrupting pressures of inflation rates to a volatile foreign exchange market, the economy has faced complex policy options that have pushed businesses across all sectors to build resilience, innovate, and build collaborative networks for survival. Idahosa added that to cushion the current economic condition, the 2024 Lagos International Trade will offer free entry to all visitors across the 10 days of the event.
He said, “We have taken substantial measures to ensure that all attendees, exhibitors, and visitors alike enjoy a safe, welcoming, and vibrant atmosphere. Security arrangements have been reinforced to guarantee a smooth experience, allowing guests to engage freely in the event and explore the vast array of exhibitions, product showcases, and cultural displays on offer.”
