Lagos, Sweden Strengthen Ties to Drive Investment in Power, Technology, and Infrastructure

The Lagos State Government and the Kingdom of Sweden have concluded plans to enhance collaboration across multiple sectors, including technology, transportation, energy, and digital skills development, as part of a broader strategy to accelerate economic growth and foster mutually beneficial development.

This development emerged from a high-level roundtable meeting held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at the Lagos House in Marina. The meeting brought together key representatives from both governments, with Lagos State represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, standing in for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Sweden represented by Her Royal Highness, Crown Princess Victoria Ingrid Alice Désirée, Duchess of Västergötland.

In his remarks, Dr. Hamzat emphasized the strategic importance of Lagos as Nigeria’s commercial capital and a gateway for international investment. He noted that the state is rich with opportunities, especially in the energy sector, which has recently undergone significant reforms. With the Federal Government’s unbundling of the power sector, Lagos has taken proactive steps by domesticating the reform through the enactment of the Lagos State Electricity Law, opening up the space for private investment and innovation in power generation and distribution.

Beyond energy, the Deputy Governor highlighted several other priority areas for investment, including the development of a modern food logistics hub. This initiative aims to streamline food distribution, reduce dependency on middlemen, and ultimately lower food prices for residents. He also pointed to ongoing investments in water transportation systems, expansion of rail lines, and the construction of integrated transport hubs as part of the state's comprehensive infrastructure development plan.

The roundtable provided a platform for both parties to explore ways of strengthening economic, technological, and cultural exchanges. It also underlined the shared commitment of Lagos and Sweden to sustainable development goals and inclusive growth.

The meeting marks a significant step in building a stronger bilateral relationship between Lagos State and Sweden, laying the groundwork for future investments, knowledge exchange, and joint innovation across vital sectors.