The Governor of Lagos State, Gov. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has highlighted Lagos’ pivotal role in shaping the future of African cities during a conversation at the John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum at the Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics in Boston, Massachusetts.
Speaking to students, scholars, and policy leaders, the governor said Africa’s urban transformation is already underway, with Lagos playing a central role.
“Africa’s urban future is already unfolding, and Lagos is right at the centre of it,” he stated. “Our city is growing quickly, and with that growth comes responsibility. We are working deliberately to guide that growth so it creates opportunity and improves everyday life.”
Sanwo-Olu highlighted the Lagos State Government’s THEMES+ Agenda, which focuses on transportation, technology, tourism, security, and social inclusion. He pointed to major infrastructure projects such as the Lagos Blue Line Rail and Lagos Red Line Rail as examples of efforts to transform urban mobility.
The Governor also shared economic indicators reflecting Lagos’ rapid growth. According to him, the state generated $821.9 million in internally generated revenue last year, representing about 35 percent of Nigeria’s total, while $2.73 billion in capital inflows was recorded in the third quarter of 2025.
“Lagos now has more than 2,000 startups and was recently recognised as the world’s fastest-growing tech ecosystem,” he said, adding that the city’s youthful population and thriving innovation ecosystem position it for global competitiveness.
“Lagos’ story is closely tied to Africa’s rise. With the right investments and collaboration, we can build a city that works better for everyone,” Sanwo-Olu concluded.