Lagos unveils Operation Quadrant Ignite at Design Week

…to set up catalytic fund for industrial expansion

By Adeola Ogunrinde

The Lagos State Government on Tuesday unveiled Operation Quadrant Ignite (OQI), a bold initiative aimed at transforming the Lekki Economic Zone (LEZ) into Africa’s premier destination for manufacturing, trade, and investment.

The Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Folashade Ambrose, disclosed the initiative—which stands at the core of Lagos State’s industrialisation strategy—at the Design and Innovation Exhibition organised by Design Week Lagos and held in Victoria Island, Lagos.

Speaking at the event, the commissioner stated that Lekki has long been envisioned as the industrial nerve center that will leverage Lagos’ strategic location, abundant resources, and robust infrastructure. This vision is now being realised through Operation Quadrant Ignite.

Her words:

“Through this initiative, the Lagos State Government, under the able leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is unlocking the full potential of the Lekki Economic Zone, ensuring that underutilised assets are repurposed and land use is optimised for maximum productivity. This transformation is not just about land development; it is about creating an integrated industrial ecosystem that fosters innovation, efficiency, and global competitiveness.

“A critical pillar of Operation Quadrant Ignite is the establishment of a Catalytic Fund, designed to provide targeted financing for industrial projects with high growth potential. By attracting investment from Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), private equity firms, and venture capitalists, this fund will serve as a catalyst for industrial expansion, enabling businesses to scale rapidly while ensuring that local enterprises are not left behind in the process.”

According to her, Operation Quadrant Ignite leverages the strategic importance of the Lekki Deep Sea Port, positioning Lagos as a hub for export-driven manufacturing by integrating efficient logistics, world-class port facilities, and seamless trade.

“We recognise infrastructure as the backbone of industrial growth, enabling Lagos-based industries to compete effectively in the global market. This initiative prioritises the development of world-class road networks, reliable energy supply, and digital connectivity—providing industries with the essential infrastructure they need to thrive and reinforcing Lagos’ reputation as the preferred destination for industrial investments in Africa.

“Operation Quadrant Ignite is more than a policy; it is a commitment—a commitment to sustainable industrial growth, a commitment to unlocking economic potential, and a commitment to positioning Lagos as a global leader in industrialisation. Through this initiative, the Sanwo-Olu administration is not just envisioning a more prosperous Lagos; we are actively building it.”

Ambrose stressed that the industrial transformation of Lagos is well underway, and the opportunities ahead are limitless. She invited stakeholders, investors, and partners to join in this bold journey that will ensure Lagos remains the heartbeat of Africa’s industrial evolution.

The Managing Director of Lekki Worldwide Investments Limited, Adeniyi Akinlusi, described the Lekki Economic Zone as home to leading enterprises and manufacturing firms shaping Nigeria’s industrialisation trajectory.

“The Lekki Economic Zone holds considerable potential and has a great role to play in Lagos’ bid to set the pace in the new frontier of African industrialisation.”

The Founder of Design Week Lagos, Titi Ogunfere, described the gathering as more than just another exhibition; rather, a bold statement about the future of Nigeria’s industrial and manufacturing sectors.

“As we stand at the crossroads of transformation, we recognise that true economic progress is driven by design, manufacturing, and innovation. Nations that have led the world—whether through technological revolutions or manufacturing excellence—have done so by design.

“History has shown us that design and industrialisation go hand in hand. Today, Nigeria stands at that same inflection point. We are a nation rich in talent, resources, and ideas, and as seen in this exhibition, the potential for design-led manufacturing is immense. The products showcased here—from furniture and industrial design to product invention—prove that we have the creativity, skill, and vision to compete on a global scale.

“But potential alone is not enough. To move from vision to reality, we must create the right policies, infrastructure, and business environments that empower designers, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs to produce at scale—not just for local markets but for export.

“That is why today’s discussions on industrialisation and investment are so critical. The Lekki Free Trade Zone and other industrial hubs offer an unparalleled opportunity to develop a Made-in-Nigeria export economy, but this requires collective action. We must bridge the gap between designers and manufacturers, ensuring that ideas do not remain concepts but become tangible products,” she said.

The event featured a panel of distinguished industry leaders, including:

• Segun Ajayi-Kadiri, Director General, Manufacturing Association of Nigeria (MAN)
• Yomi Ogunmola, Managing Director, Alaro City
• Adenike Ogunlesi, Founder/Chief Responsibility Officer, Ruff ‘N’ Tumble
• Bolatito Ajibode, Deputy Managing Director, Lekki Free Zone Development Company
• Mineshaft Rathi, Group Finance Director, Tolaram Group
• Muda Yusuf, Industrial Policy Commission Facilitator/National Practice Lead, Nigeria Economic Summit Group
• Tosin Osunkoya, CEO, Commercio Partners Asset Management