Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu today received the Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Professor Eghosa Osaghae, and former Minister of External Affairs, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, on a courtesy visit to Lagos House, Marina.
The visit underscored the longstanding partnership between the Lagos State Government and the NIIA — Nigeria’s foremost foreign policy think tank — in advancing Nigeria’s strategic interests and strengthening its diplomatic voice on the global stage.
Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the NIIA for its enduring contributions to national development through policy research, international dialogue, and strategic engagement. He emphasized that Lagos, as Nigeria’s economic and cultural hub, remains deeply invested in fostering initiatives that enhance the country’s global competitiveness and diplomatic presence.
During the meeting, discussions centered on deepening collaboration between Lagos State and the NIIA to promote research-driven policies, facilitate international partnerships, and project Nigeria’s image as a dynamic and forward-looking nation. The Governor reiterated his administration’s openness to working closely with national institutions like the NIIA to align Lagos’ development goals with Nigeria’s broader international objectives.
Professor Eghosa Osaghae, in his remarks, acknowledged the strategic importance of Lagos as a global city and reaffirmed the NIIA’s commitment to supporting the State’s efforts in building international linkages that attract investment, innovation, and sustainable growth. He also highlighted the institute’s ongoing initiatives to position Nigeria as a constructive actor in global diplomacy.
Professor Bolaji Akinyemi praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s visionary leadership and expressed confidence that closer cooperation between Lagos and the NIIA would yield positive outcomes for Nigeria’s foreign policy and subnational diplomacy.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to pursue joint programs that enhance Nigeria’s visibility on international platforms and strengthen policy engagement between government institutions and global partners.
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