LAGOS — Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for collaboration with Japan on electric buses and other sustainable mass-transit solutions to address the mobility needs of the state’s growing population. Represented by Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, during a courtesy visit by Ms. Takahashi Misako, Assistant Minister and Director-General for African Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, on Friday in Ikoyi, the governor noted that Lagos’ large population and limited landmass make mass transit critical.
“Going forward, it will be interesting to know what we can do together in terms of electric vehicles. When I say vehicle, I mean buses, high-capacity buses,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Lagos has a population of about 30 million, and we have the smallest land area in the country in terms of percentages. Mass transit is very, very important for us.” He also urged stronger cooperation in technology and human capital development, saying Lagos is committed to training young people in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and robotics. He further highlighted cultural exchange opportunities, describing Lagos as Nigeria’s cultural capital driven by music, Afrobeat and the creative industry.
Ms. Takahashi Misako said Japan is keen to deepen partnership with Nigeria, particularly Lagos, in technology, youth development and business. She noted that 57 major Japanese companies currently operate in Lagos, with three having manufacturing capacity. Misako cited ongoing cultural exchanges and the planned Japan-Nigeria Business Facilitation Council meeting in Lagos this October as evidence of expanding ties. “Japanese technology and science capability can also help facilitate younger Nigerian students who would like to specialize in that area,” she added.
