Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed the state’s position as a strategic hub for global investment, declaring Lagos as an ideal destination for international brands seeking sustainable growth in Africa.
EpeInsights reports that Governor Sanwo-Olu made this assertion on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by Mr. Dave Thomas, Managing Director of Adidas Emerging Markets (Middle East, Africa, and Asia) and his delegation at the Lagos House, Marina.
Describing Lagos as a vibrant, youth-driven economy with vast potential, the Governor highlighted the state’s readiness to support business expansion, particularly in e-commerce and the sports sector.
“Lagos is a natural choice for a brand like Adidas,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“We are a state of over 20 million residents, with more than 60 per cent being youth — vibrant, energetic, and in tune with global trends. Our economy is strong, our people are resilient, and our government is committed to fostering innovation and enterprise.”
Commending Adidas for choosing Lagos as the location for its second-largest flagship store in Africa, the Governor noted that the brand’s decision reflects growing investor confidence in the state’s economic prospects and consumer base.
Sanwo-Olu also revealed ongoing efforts by his administration to boost sports infrastructure in the state, stating that 10 stadia are currently being developed, with four near completion.
He encouraged Adidas to deepen its engagement in the state through partnerships in youth empowerment, sports development, and the creative sector. “We look forward to seeing Adidas contribute not just to commerce, but to talent development, community building, and job creation. Lagos is open for more,” he added.
In his remarks, Mr. Dave Thomas praised the Lagos State Government for creating a supportive environment for business and youth development. He lauded the administration’s efforts to promote sports and pledged Adidas’ commitment to investing further in Lagos and Nigeria at large.
Thomas announced Adidas’ plan to build schools and sports facilities in the future and donated 200 UEFA Champions League footballs to secondary schools across Lagos to promote youth engagement in sports.
“We are very excited about what we see in Lagos,” Thomas said. “The energy, creativity, and fashion sense of young people here are unmatched, and it aligns perfectly with the Adidas identity. Our flagship store in Lagos is more than a retail outlet; it’s a symbol of our confidence in this market and our desire to be part of its journey.”
He also reiterated the company’s readiness to collaborate with local partners and government agencies to drive grassroots sports and youth-led initiatives across the state.
