Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu presented Lagos’ economic features and ongoing development projects during a lecture at Harvard Business School on Wednesday.
Speaking at Professor Hakeem Belo-Osagie’s course on African business and political economy, Sanwo-Olu cited the state’s $259 billion GDP, 25 million population, four seaports, and government policies as factors supporting investment.
“Lagos is a place where people come in without anything and become somebody. We are a business and commercial powerhouse,” he stated during his presentation titled “Building the Future: Lagos State Infrastructure-led Transformation.”
Sanwo-Olu discussed transportation initiatives, including the Blue Line rail system, which has reportedly transported over two million passengers with approximately 42,000 commuters daily. He mentioned that the Red Line is operational and announced plans for airport construction on the Lekki-Epe Expressway and development of a Green Line connection to Lagos Island.
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In education, the governor noted the establishment of two universities, with a third medical university planned. He emphasised technology development goals, stating that about 60 per cent of Lagos’ population consists of young, tech-oriented residents.
The presentation covered various sectors, including tourism, infrastructure, and healthcare. Sanwo-Olu reported that over 1,000 roads have been built or rehabilitated, and more than 3,000 housing units constructed. Healthcare projects underway include a general hospital, mental health facility, and children’s hospital described as the largest in Sub-Saharan Africa.
When questioned about energy issues, the governor explained recent power sector restructuring that allows states greater control over generation, distribution, and transmission, opening potential investment avenues.
The lecture began with a five-minute video showcasing Lagos and concluded with the governor fielding questions from international students attending the Harvard programme.
