At Eko Hotels and Suites on Victoria Island, President Bola Tinubu opened the Invest in Lagos 3.0 summit on Monday, making the case that Lagos is Africa's foremost destination for investment, innovation, and economic growth. He described the city as a strategic gateway to the continent's economic future and a hub for global trade opportunities. Tinubu was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The summit was organised by the Lagos State Government in partnership with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, under the theme "Lagos: Business Gateway to Africa, Powering Africa's Next Era of Trade, Talent and Global Economic Leadership." It drew top government officials, global leaders, policymakers, investors, and development partners from across the continent and beyond.
Tinubu pointed to deliberate economic policies, strong institutions, and a business-friendly environment as the pillars behind Lagos holding its position as Africa's commercial nerve centre. He also reaffirmed the federal government's commitment to working with state governments and the private sector to strengthen infrastructure, expand trade, and improve the ease of doing business nationwide.
Governors of Lagos, Abia, Imo, Nasarawa, and Plateau states used the forum to present investment opportunities in their states and make direct pitches to both local and foreign investors. The African Export-Import Bank was among the institutional partners present, with its Executive Vice President Kanayo Awani represented by Dr. Gainmore Zanamwe. Awani's statement noted that supporting investment across African countries is core to what Afreximbank does, describing the bank's involvement as a natural fit.
With five states on the floor and continental finance institutions in the room, the summit signals something bigger than a single city's pitch. Whether the momentum translates into signed commitments is the next question worth watching.
Originally published by African Business.