Governor Sanwo-Olu Appeals to Global Private Entities to Finance Lagos Rail and Tech Infrastructure
LAGOS, Nigeria – Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on global private investors and development partners to channel capital into critical infrastructure projects across the state, particularly in rail transportation, digital technology, energy, waterways, and agriculture.
Speaking at the Invest Lagos 3.0 forum themed “Lagos: The Business Gateway to Africa,” the governor emphasized that Lagos remains one of Africa’s most attractive investment destinations, with vast untapped opportunities capable of generating significant returns for investors while accelerating economic growth.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the state government is actively creating an enabling environment for private sector participation to bridge infrastructure deficits and unlock new economic opportunities.
According to him, transportation remains a major priority, particularly rail and water transport systems, which are central to reducing travel time, improving mobility, and enhancing productivity in Africa’s largest city. He stressed that efficient transportation infrastructure would stimulate business activities, increase household income, and strengthen Lagos’ competitiveness as a commercial hub.
The governor also highlighted the growing opportunities within the technology sector, urging investors to support the expansion of digital infrastructure, fibre-optic connectivity, artificial intelligence ecosystems, and hyperscale data centres.
“The future is technology,” Sanwo-Olu said, adding that Lagos is already expanding fibre connectivity across the state and positioning itself as a leading destination for data infrastructure investments.
He further pointed to Lagos' impressive track record in attracting digital investments, noting that the state has secured substantial investments in data centres, submarine cable infrastructure, and telecommunications networks in recent years, reinforcing its status as Nigeria’s technology capital.
Beyond transportation and technology, the governor identified agriculture, agro-processing, water infrastructure, and energy as strategic sectors requiring increased private capital. With an estimated population exceeding 24 million people, he said Lagos offers investors access to one of Africa’s largest consumer markets and a ready demand base for goods and services.
Sanwo-Olu assured prospective investors of his administration’s commitment to honouring partnerships, maintaining a conducive business environment, and implementing policies that encourage sustainable economic development.
Industry observers believe that greater private sector participation in rail development and digital infrastructure could significantly accelerate Lagos’ ambition of becoming a globally competitive smart city while strengthening its position as West Africa’s economic gateway.
Tope Bankole,
Strategic Communications Expert.
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