Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for enhanced cooperation between China and Lagos State in key areas such as green energy, smart city initiatives, capacity building, and cultural exchanges. The Governor emphasized that such collaborations are essential to advancing sustainable development goals for both parties.
Speaking through his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, at the 76th Chinese National Day Reception held in Victoria Island, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the importance of these partnerships in actualizing the state’s vision of a “Greater Lagos” that is productive, resilient, and globally competitive.
“Lagos State Government has enjoyed fruitful collaborations with Chinese institutions, companies, and investors in sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, technology, and trade,” the Governor stated. “These partnerships have significantly contributed to our developmental goals and continue to reinforce our commitment to transforming Lagos into a modern global city.”
Sanwo-Olu commended the Chinese government for its enduring commitment to fostering mutual respect and shared prosperity. He noted that Chinese businesses in Lagos have contributed to job creation, industrial growth, and deeper cultural connections between the people of China and Nigeria.
Reflecting on China’s development journey, the Governor said the country’s success story stands as a powerful testament to the impact of visionary leadership, discipline, and unity of purpose. He added that Lagos is inspired by such examples as it pursues its own transformation agenda.
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on China-Nigeria Parliamentary Relations, Hon. Jafaru Yakubu, praised the strategic partnership between Nigeria and China. He noted that the relationship has produced visible results in areas such as infrastructure, trade, technology, education, and cultural exchange.
Yakubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to remaining a dependable partner to China, stressing that both nations can work together to promote not only Africa’s growth but also global peace, stability, and prosperity.
In her remarks, the Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, Ms. Yan Yuqing, reflected on China’s remarkable journey over the past 76 years. She highlighted how the leadership of the Communist Party of China and the 1978 policy of reform and opening-up have transformed China into the world’s second-largest economy, the largest goods trading nation, and the top holder of foreign exchange reserves.
Ms. Yan reiterated China’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Nigeria, especially Lagos, in areas that support shared development and mutual progress.
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