Posted on Leave a comment

Southern govs, monarchs back Tinubu, unveil unified security strategy

Southern Governors and members of the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council met in Ogun State on Wednesday to deliberate on regional security, governance, and development, ending the meeting with a unified stance on major national and regional issues.

In a joint communique, the leaders passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu, acknowledging his efforts in stabilising the economy, improving governance, and advancing key infrastructure projects across the country.

They also reiterated their long-standing advocacy for a Southern presidency, stating that the region remains committed to equity, balance, and national cohesion.

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on his X account on Wednesday, said, “We passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu and restated our support for a Southern presidency.

“We reaffirmed our commitment to a safer and more united South, expressed our condolences on recent national security losses, and acknowledged the President’s efforts in stabilising the economy and advancing major infrastructure projects.

“We agreed on key steps, including setting up a zonal security fund, improving intelligence sharing, strengthening community security outfits, involving traditional rulers more formally in security, and tackling illegal mining and land-related risks.

“Above all, we assured our citizens that the South remains united and committed to peace, cooperation, and progress.”

The forum expressed condolences to the families of security personnel and civilians who have lost their lives in recent security incidents and emphasised that the safety and stability of the region remain top priorities.

To strengthen regional security, the governors and traditional rulers agreed on several strategic steps, including the establishment of a zonal security fund to support coordinated efforts across the South.

They also endorsed enhanced intelligence sharing among states, stronger community-based security organizations, and a more formal role for traditional rulers in security management and early warning structures.

The leaders are committed to addressing emerging risks linked to illegal mining, land conflicts, and other activities that threaten peace and development in Southern communities.

They noted that traditional institutions and expanded inter-state collaboration will be key in detecting and responding to these challenges. (Punch)

Posted on Leave a comment

Sanwo-Olu presents N4.2tn 2026 budget to Lagos Assembly

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday presented a proposed N4.237 trillion budget for the 2026 fiscal year to the state House of Assembly.

Security was heightened within and around the Assembly complex, with officers from the police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps stationed at major entry points.

Members of the state executive council, local government officials, traditional rulers, and other guests attended the session, which was presided over by the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa.

Sanwo-Olu began his presentation of the budget, tagged “Budget of Shared Prosperity,” at about 1.25 p.m.

During the address before the 40-member House, the governor emphasised that the 2026 proposal was designed to promote shared prosperity and build a Lagos that benefits all residents.

“Our mission remains clear, to eradicate poverty and build a Lagos that works for all,” the governor said.

He noted that the budget is anchored on four strategic pillars: a human-centred approach, modern infrastructure, a thriving economy, and good governance.

If approved, the N4.2tn proposal would represent a major leap in Lagos’ annual spending plan, reflecting growth of over N3tn in five years.

Budget records show that the state’s appropriation has risen from N1.1tn in 2021 to the N4.2tn now proposed for 2026 — an increase of N3.074tn under Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

The budget rose to N1.75tn in 2022, N1.76tn in 2023, and N2.26tn in 2024. By 2025, Lagos surpassed the N3tn mark with a N3.366tn budget ahead of the latest N4.237tn proposal.

According to the governor, the new budget “is reaffirming of our collective belief that Lagos can continue to rise.”

Sanwo-Olu added that the proposal builds on existing development foundations and restated his commitment to completing ongoing projects.

“We remain determined to complete all ongoing projects,” he said. (Punch)

Posted on Leave a comment

Insecurity: Sanwo-Olu, other South-West Govs meet in Ibadan

Governors of the South-West states on Monday held a closed-door meeting in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The meeting was attended by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, who is also the Chairman of the regional forum.

Others included Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and the host governor, Seyi Makinde (Oyo).

Channels Television reports that the venue of the meeting is the Oyo State Secretariat in Agodi, Ibadan, where Makinde’s office is situated.

Although it is unclear why the emergency meeting was called, it may, however, not be unconnected with the security situation in the country where bandits have abducted some schoolchildren in Kebbi and Niger states, as well as some worshippers in a church in Kwara State.

Sources said the governors would deliberate on the security threats, fast-track infrastructural development, and strengthen regional integration under the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN).

They are also expected to review ongoing collaborative security initiatives, including the operations of the Amotekun Corps, with a view to enhancing its capacity amid emerging challenges. (Channels)

Posted on Leave a comment

E1 Lagos: Brazilian team win Lagos electric boat race

Team Brazil capped off an impeccable weekend in Nigeria with a thrilling win at the E1 Lagos GP, seizing the maiden race in Africa to claim their first win in the all-electric powerboat series on Sunday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Powered by their pole position from Saturday’s qualifying, Team Brazil duly capitalised from the group races to the final, with Timmy Hansen delivering a flawless performance on the water.

They had the fastest time in the practice session and topped the qualifying race on Saturday before winning the final on Sunday.

They beat Team Blue Rising, owned by Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli, to second place while Team Drogba Global Africa, which is co-owned by Ivory Coast football legend and former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba and Gabrielle Lemaire, finished third.

Team Brazil got 38 points for their win, taking their tally up to 89 points. However, they are still far off from the title in seventh position, ahead of the final race of the season next month in Miami.

“We came to Lagos and we had a fantastic time. It is important with the race format to have the best starting lane, so you want to start on the inside, and we had it. Thanks to the team, I had a brilliant start, and it was smooth sailing,” Hansen told our correspondent.

There was no place on the podium for suspects Team Rafa and Team Brady, who have been in a tussle at the top of the championship standings ahead of the E1 Lagos GP.

However, Team Brady remains top of the championship standings despite finishing fourth. Their 19 points from an electrifying weekend in Lagos take them up to 154 points.

They are still separated from Team Rafa, owned by tennis legend Rafael Nadal by three points. Piloted by Cris Lazarraga and Tom Chiappe, Team Rafa finished fifth in Lagos with 17 points, taking their season’s tally to 151points.

Kohli’s Blue Rising remains third in the standings with 145 points.

The E1 is an all-electric powerboat race which began last year in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Lagos became the first city in Africa to host the championship.

The E1 Lagos GP was also the penultimate race of the season, setting the tone for the championship battle ahead of the season finale in Miami next month.

Speaking to journalists during the championship on Sunday, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the first-of-its-kind event in Africa as a demonstration of the state’s commitment to innovation and clean energy.

“Hosting the E1 series is not just about sports, it is about innovation, environmental responsibility, and putting Lagos on the global map for future-focused development,” Sanwo-Olu said. (Punch)

Posted on Leave a comment

Tinubu: Stop negative talk, National Theatre revival shows Nigeria will succeed

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Wednesday, urged Nigerians to stop speaking negatively about the country, declaring that Nigeria is a nation of proud, confident, and dedicated people destined for success.

Speaking at the reopening of the renovated National Theatre, now the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, which coincided with the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

Tinubu said the landmark’s revival was proof that the country could overcome setbacks and achieve greatness.

“Let’s believe in Nigeria, let’s put this country first. If you have a bad dream, forget it—Nigeria will succeed,” the President told the gathering, adding: “This is the giant of Africa; it won’t fall, it won’t disintegrate in my hands.”

Tinubu said the theatre’s rebirth must create jobs and expand opportunities in the creative economy. He directed CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, and the Bankers’ Committee to set up an endowment fund, pledging his own contribution.

“The worst is over; we have turned the corner. With proper management, prosperity will come,” he assured.

 Speaking at the event, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) said the transformation of the National Arts Theatre into the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts is a strategic investment in Nigeria’s youths, Nigeria’s stories and rightful place on the global  cultural stage.

The CBN Governor explained that the ₦68 billion funding from the Bankers’ Committee was not corporate social responsibility but a deliberate stake in the creative economy.

“This is more than a building; it is an investment in our youths, in our stories, and in Nigeria’s rightful place on the global stage,” he said.

He recalled the Theatre’s FESTAC ’77 legacy, years of neglect, and its revival into a modern hub with world-class performance halls, cinemas, galleries, and upgraded facilities.

He commended President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State, and cultural partners, urging that the Centre remain a beacon of creativity and national pride.

Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, has applauded the Bankers’ Committee for championing the transformation of the National Arts Theatre, describing it as a landmark rebirth of Nigeria’s cultural pride.

Soyinka said he accepted the honour with mixed feelings, warning against the indiscriminate naming of monuments after leaders. He recalled challenging a past ruler for dedicating a public space to “a brutal dictator.”

The playwright lamented the neglect of Africa’s theatre pioneers but praised those who turned the once-derelict complex into a world-class hub. With humour, he recalled how poor design once “nearly electrocuted actors” during performances.

Soyinka thanked President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State, and the Bankers’ Committee, urging that the revived theatre remain a stage for African creativity, unity, and global cultural expression.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has hailed the restoration of the National Arts Theatre, now renamed the Wole Soyinka Center for Culture and Creative Arts, as a landmark in Nigeria’s cultural revival.

Sanwo-Olu said the theatre, once host to FESTAC ’77 but later abandoned, has been restored through federal, state, and private collaboration. He described it as a foundation for future creative possibilities and a global hub for culture.

The renaming honours Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, while Sanwo-Olu praised Tinubu’s support, calling the edifice a beacon of unity, pride, and Nigeria’s artistic rebirth. (Vanguard)

Posted on Leave a comment

Sanwo-Olu, NGE mourn Arise TV anchor

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the ARISE Television News Anchor, Somtochukwu Maduagwu, who died during an armed robbery attack at her residence in Katampe, Abuja, on Monday.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu described the late 29-year-old Maduagwu, fondly called “Sommie” by colleagues, as a fast-rising star in broadcast journalism.

The governor noted that the deceased discharged her duties diligently and passionately while on air.

He also commiserated with the deceased’s family, friends, colleagues, and the management and staff of ARISE News, especially the founder, Nduka Obaigbena, over the tragic loss.

The condolence message read in part, “On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, we commiserate with ARISE News over the death of one of its anchors, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu. She was a diligent and thorough professional.

“Her death was a big shock considering the circumstances, but we take solace in the Almighty God that she lived a fulfilled life and made positive impacts in the media industry.

“She will be greatly missed by her family, friends, associates, colleagues, and the entire ARISE News team. I pray that God will comfort everyone who was close to her and grant her eternal rest.

“My thoughts are with her immediate family and the Chairman of ARISE TV, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena. May God grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”

Also, the Nigerian Guild of Editors has expressed sadness over the death of Maduagwu.

In a statement signed on Tuesday by its President, Eze Anaba, and General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh, the guild described Somtochukwu’s death as a huge loss to journalism in Nigeria.

“By Somtochukwu’s untimely death, journalism has lost not just a good professional who was committed to shedding light on important issues and giving voice to the voiceless but also one who represented the future of journalism in the country,” the guild said.

The editors noted that the incident underscored the dangers posed by insecurity in the country.

“The loss of this dedicated journalist from an armed robbery incident is a stark reminder of the dangers Nigerians face daily in their homes and on the street. We cannot help but reflect on the issue of insecurity that plagues our nation. The increasing frequency of armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, insurgency and other violent crimes has created an environment of fear and uncertainty for both citizens and professionals like journalists,” the statement added.

The NGE called on the government to address insecurity and bring those behind the reporter’s death to justice.

“We demand action from the government to address the root causes of insecurity and take measures to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. We demand that those responsible for Somtochukwu’s death be fished out by security agencies and made to face the full weight of the law,” it said.

The guild also commiserated with Arise News and the journalist’s colleagues.

“At this difficult time, we stand in solidarity with Arise News and the broader journalism community. We pray that the memory of this talented young journalist who died at her prime inspires excellence in journalism, even in the face of adversity. May the memory of this vibrant journalist be a blessing to all who knew her.” (Punch)

Posted on Leave a comment

Lagos Afriland Towers fire: Death toll hits 10, as Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, Obasa, Obi, others mourn

Following the devastating inferno that gutted Afriland Towers, a six-storey commercial building on Broad Street, Lagos Island on Tuesday, six additional victims were confirmed dead yesterday, after the initial four persons on the fateful day.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, and Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, LP, in the 2025 election, Peter Obi, had in separate messages, expressed their condolences to family members, management of Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, United Bank for Africa, UBA, and United Capital Plc over unfortunate incident.

The latest six casualties were employees of United Capital Plc, a financial and investment services firm, situated on the third and fourth floors of the building.

Meanwhile, Director, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Mrs. Margaret Adeseye, in a statement earlier, confirmed 10 persons dead.

In her response, titled; “Update on the report of fire incident at Afrialand Towers Broad Street, Lagos,” simply stated, “Further investigation with the Afriland team however, revealed that 10 adults male including female were confirmed dead afterwards.”

Recall that the management and staff of FIRS, had earlier in a statement on Wednesday, by the Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman, Dare Adekanmbi, confirmed the death of four staff members to include: Mrs. Ekelikhostse George (Assistant Director), Mr David Sunday-Jatto (Assistant Director), Mrs. Nkem Onyemelukwe (Senior Manager) and Mr Peter Ifaranmaye (Manager).

One of the deceased, Jatto, it was gathered was in the office on the fateful day to hand over officially to his successor after been redeployed to another branch when the tragedy claimed his life.

The raging fire it was gathered by emergency agencies, originated in the inverter room located in the basement of the building while smoke spread across multiple floors and engulfed the structure, trapping occupants in the process.

“It is with a heavy heart that FIRS announces the tragic loss of four of its staff members during the fire incident at Afriland Towers, Broad Street, Lagos, on Tuesday.

“FIRS is one of the tenants occupying the Towers with our Medium Tax Audit and Onikan Emerging Tax Office housed on the sixth and seventh floors.

“Our Security and Safety officials quickly mobilized and contacted the fire service as soon as they were alerted. On getting to the scene, thick dark smoke was already billowing out of the building.

“The Management and entire staff are in deep shock and sorrow over the development. They offer their condolences to the grieving families and are in touch with the families of our departed colleagues whose commitment to excellence, dedication and professionalism were never in doubt. We will provide all the necessary support at this trying time.

“We are working in collaboration with all relevant agencies in Lagos to get to the root cause of the unfortunate incident. While this is going on, we will be reviewing safety measures across FIRS offices in both rented and owned buildings nationwide,” the statement reads.

However, statement by United Capital Plc yesterday, reports came in from another affected firm management, confirming the loss of six members of staff to the tragic incident, raising the total death toll to 10 so far.

A statement by United Capital Plc, made available to the media yesterday confirmed six of its staff dead in the incident.

The statement read in part; “It is with profound grief that the Management and Staff of United Capital Plc announce the passing of six of our dear colleagues, following the tragic fire at Afriland Towers on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.

“Our departed colleagues were an integral part of our company and family. Their painful loss leaves an immeasurable void. We extend our deepest and heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones, and we continue to hold them in our thoughts and prayers, as well as provide all the support we can to them during this most difficult time.

“We are making preparations for an appropriate memorial service to honour their lives and mark their passing with dignity and solemnity. We thank the emergency services and all those who responded for their valiant assistance at the time of the incident.

President Tinubu in a statement by his Spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, called for more caution, training, and alertness to avert future occurrences.

Tinubu extended his condolences to the management and staff of Afriland Properties Limited, the FIRS, UBA, and particularly those who lost loved ones in the inferno, and the injured who are currently receiving medical attention.

He commended the emergency responders, including the Federal Fire Service, first aiders, medical personnel, and members of the public for their quick intervention with their deep sense of responsibility during the evacuation operations.

Tinubu prayed that God Almighty will receive the souls of the departed and grant quick recovery to the injured.

Sanwo-Olu who described the tragedy as “unfortunate,” expressed shock over the ugly incident that claimed the lives of people and the destruction of properties.

The Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, in a statement issued on Thursday, said: “It is with a heavy heart that I received news of the fire outbreak. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and the management and staff of all the organisations that lost their loved ones in the ugly incident. I wish the injured persons a speedy recovery.”

He pledged the government’s continued support for further prevention and arrest of such ugly incidents.

Obi mourns

“I like to sincerely extend my deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers to all the families and companies affected by the tragic fire, as well as the traders at Mandilas Market and adjoining plazas along Taiwo Street, Lagos Island, whose stores were engulfed in the fire. It is deeply heartbreaking that valued lives and livelihoods were lost in this devastating incident.

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, in its reaction, raised alarm over the recent spate of devastating fires in Lagos and called for probe. (Vanguard)

Posted on Leave a comment

Sanwo-Olu congratulates Team Lagos for winning 9th national youth games

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has lauded Team Lagos for their record-breaking performance at the 9th National Youth Games, which ended on Saturday in Asaba, Delta State.

The state emerged as champions with a total of 110 medals, including 52 golds, 32 silvers, and 26 bronzes, confirming its dominance in youth sports nationwide.

“I am immensely proud of Team Lagos for their outstanding performance at the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba, where they finished first on the medals table with a total of 110 medals; 52 gold medals, 32 silver, and 26 bronze,” he said.

The governor emphasised that this achievement reflects not only the talent of the athletes but also Lagos State’s growing commitment to sports development.

“Our young athletes, together with their coaches and the Lagos State Sports Commission, have made history and demonstrated the strength of Lagos in sports,” Sanwo-Olu added.

He also expressed excitement about plans to formally recognise the team’s achievement.

“In the coming days, I look forward to hosting the team to celebrate this remarkable achievement.

“Congratulations, Team Lagos. We are very proud of you all,” the governor concluded.

Team Lagos’ success came amid stiff competition, with the host state, Delta, finishing second with 37 gold, 38 silver, and 39 bronze medals, displacing Edo State from the runner-up position.

At the closing ceremony of the games at Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, commended the winners while also praising all young athletes for their efforts.

He urged the National Sports Commission to urgently tackle the problem of age cheating in youth sports to protect the credibility and fairness of the National Youth Games.

Oborevwori presented the trophies to Team Lagos, celebrating their haul and highlighting the importance of sustained investment in youth sports development across Nigeria.

The 9th National Youth Games in Asaba has now cemented Team Lagos’ reputation as a powerhouse in Nigerian youth sports, showcasing the state’s depth of talent and the effectiveness of its sports development programmes. (Punch)

Posted on Leave a comment

Sanwo-Olu, Otti, Kefas mourn Buhari, recount legacy

Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Alex Otti of Abia, and Agbu Kefas of Taraba have expressed grief over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing his death as a significant loss to the nation.

In a condolence message issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu described Buhari as a transparent, courageous and honest leader who dedicated his life to Nigeria’s growth.

“On behalf of my wife, Ibijoke, the people and government of Lagos State, I mourn the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, one of Nigeria’s most prominent military and political leaders.

“He was a courageous, disciplined, respected and passionate leader.

“His commitment to the growth and development of Nigeria is worthy of emulation because he provided honest and transparent leadership in the country,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The governor recalled Buhari’s long record of service, noting that he served as Military Governor, Minister of Petroleum Resources, Head of State, and ultimately President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

“He sacrificed the greater part of his life in the service of our dear country… and served passionately,” he said.

He extended condolences to Buhari’s family, President Bola Tinubu, members of the All Progressives Congress, and the people of Katsina State.

In Taraba, Kefas also paid tribute, describing Buhari’s death as a monumental national loss.

A statement on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello, noted Buhari’s lifelong dedication to public service, national unity, and the anti-corruption fight.

“Taraba State joins the rest of the country in mourning a leader who, despite criticisms, remained steadfast in his convictions and love for Nigeria,” the statement said.

Kefas praised Buhari’s austere lifestyle, discipline, and devotion to integrity and national security, urging Nigerians to uphold his legacy through unity and selfless service.

Otti, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, said he received the news of the former president’s death with sadness.

Otti extended condolences to the Federal Government, Tinubu, and the family of the deceased.

“Governor Otti, on behalf of his family and the good people of Abia State enjoins the ex-President’s family and loved ones to bear his demise with fortitude, while praying that God grants his soul eternal repose,” the statement read.

(Punch)

Posted on Leave a comment

Sanwo-Olu to make Lagos global economic powerhouse, says commissioner

The Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Kaosarat Bada Ambrose, on Monday, said that the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration is committed to making the state a globally competitive economic powerhouse.

Speaking during a press briefing to announce the kick off of the Lagos Investors Summit 2.0 and Africa Social Impact Summit, (ASIS) 2025, on Monday, Ambrose said the theme of the two-day event slated for July 10 and 11, 2025 is “Scaling Action: Bold Solutions Towards Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy.”

She added that the theme was derived from the general theme of the Africa Social Impact Summit: “Scaling Action: Bold Solutions for Climate Resilience and Policy Innovation.”

“The theme of the Lagos Investment Summit 2.0 reflects our unwavering commitment to building a globally competitive economic powerhouse. We are shifting from dialogue to delivery, from potential to performance, and from planning to implementation.

“The Lagos Investors Summit 2.0 is more than a meeting; it is a platform for actionable collaboration. It will bring together visionary investors, policymakers, industry leaders, development partners, and global stakeholders to explore bold solutions that will drive infrastructure expansion, unlock financing, deepen enterprise growth, and power digital innovation – all towards making Lagos A 21st-century Economy.

“The Summit will run from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a networking where delegates can forge meaningful partnerships that will shape the future of our economy. A key feature of the Summit is the Deal Rooms, where the state’s investment potential would be pitched to potential investors.

“This is expected to be anchored by political heads in the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and other senior government representatives.

“This summit comes at a pivotal time as Lagos continues to lead the way in sub-Saharan Africa, attracting investment, harnessing talent, and building infrastructure that supports inclusive prosperity. Key sectors to watch out for include civil infrastructure, transportation, technology, green energy, creative economy, real estate, blue economy, and agribusiness.

“The deal rooms would facilitate one-on-one and matchmaking sessions for serious investors, in addition to interaction with government officials, global investors, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), multilateral organisations, and business executives.

“Let me take this opportunity to invite investors, partners, and stakeholders – both local and international – to be part of this transformative moment. Lagos is open for business, and this Summit will spotlight the unparalleled opportunities that lie within our borders, particularly as Lagos is a hub for smart city solutions, digital infrastructure, and fintech.”

Ambrose was optimistic that the Lagos Investment Summit 2.0 would lead to the African Social Impact Summit, ASIS co-convened by Sterling One Foundation and United Nations in collaboration with Sterling Bank and Lagos State Government.

“The Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS) is a multi-sectoral platform dedicated to accelerating action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria and across Africa.

“The two-day summit has the objectives to establish a collaborative framework among the public/private sectors and the development community to create measurable impact through influence and advocacy; provide impact investment opportunities for social enterprises in critical sectors and vital need areas, thereby facilitating the scaling of outcomes in line with the SDGs and the African Union 2063 Agenda; while stimulating increased involvement of stakeholders across public and private sectors in developing policies to aid the speedy achievement of the SDGs and provide support for Africa’s new action plan.”

She added that the Summit is Africa’s premium platform for accelerating the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Ambrose further stated that this year’s edition focuses on strengthening sub-national development, rethinking financial flows, and addressing structural inequalities through long-term investment and reform.

“The essence is to drive conversations on inclusive growth, Environment, Sustainability and Governance – ESG, climate resilience, health equity, education, youth empowerment, and social enterprises.

“As an event pivotal to spotlighting SDG progress and gaps across Africa, ASIS 2025 will promote partnerships, collaborations between governments, NGOs, development agencies, investors, and private sector to scale social impact.

“The ASIS, which will feature high-level speakers, panel discussions and more, provides an avenue for leaders from various sectors to engage in practical and transformative efforts to address Africa’s most urgent challenges related to the SDGs and the African Union Agenda 2063.” (Guardian)