Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to strengthening its bilateral relationship with the Kingdom of Sweden, particularly in areas of information technology, cybersecurity, and infrastructure development.
EpeInsights gathered that the Governor made this known on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by Her Royal Highness, Crown Princess Alice Désirée of Sweden and Duchess of Västergötland, at the Lagos House, Marina. Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, described Lagos as the economic heartbeat of Nigeria and a strategic partner for Africa’s growth.
He emphasized the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance its digital landscape, including the ongoing rollout of a 6,800-kilometre fibre optic infrastructure project. The first phase, covering 3,500 kilometres, has already been completed to boost broadband penetration and digital access across Lagos.
“We need a lot of technology. Lagos is fast becoming a hub for IT and digital infrastructure. With a population of over 22 million—about twice the size of Sweden—the opportunities for collaboration are immense. Already, companies like Google are building data centres here, with more to come,” the Governor said.
Princess Alice Désirée, in her remarks, praised Lagos for its significant role in driving Nigeria’s economy, acknowledging its vast business potential. She expressed optimism about the future of Swedish-Nigerian cooperation.
“We are excited to be here and see how the Swedish-Nigerian relationship can evolve. There is immense potential for growth and mutual benefit. We’re also proud of the Swedish companies already operating in Nigeria,” she said.
Accompanying the royal entourage was Sweden’s Minister for Infrastructure and Housing, Mr. Andreas Carlson, who spoke with journalists about the visit’s broader goals.
He announced the inauguration of the first Swedish Trade Office in Nigeria, located in Lagos—a major milestone in advancing trade relations.
“Her Royal Highness is here to emphasize the importance of our partnership with Lagos and Nigeria, especially in areas like green economy, digital innovation, and sustainable development. We believe Lagos is the right place to begin this new chapter,” Carlson said.
The visit featured cultural entertainment from the Lagos State Cultural Troupe, with the Crown Princess joining in a traditional dance, delighting her hosts and the audience.
Also present at the event were the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, wife of the Deputy Governor; Ambassador Tiwatope Elias-Fatile, Nigeria’s envoy to Sweden; and other top government officials. The dignitaries presented African-themed gifts to the Crown Princess as a gesture of cultural appreciation.
Her Royal Highness arrived earlier in the day and was warmly received at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport by Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada.
