LASG to strengthen bilateral ties with Sweden in technology, cybersecurity

By Adeola Ogunrinde

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday said the Lagos State Government will deepen its bilateral relationship with Sweden in the areas of information technology, cybersecurity, and infrastructure for the benefit of residents. Sanwo-Olu made this known during a courtesy visit by the Crown Princess of Sweden and Duchess of Västergötland, Her Royal Highness Princess Alice Désirée, and her entourage at the Lagos House, Marina.

The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said Lagos, as the commercial heartbeat of Nigeria, remains crucial not only to the country but also to the African continent. He expressed optimism that the stakeholders’ meeting between Swedish representatives and the Lagos business community would lead to greater development opportunities for mutual benefit.

“We need a lot of technology. We are building fibre optics of about 6,800 kilometres across our state. We have completed the first phase — about 3,500 kilometres — to increase bandwidth penetration. Interestingly, many companies are coming in. Google is building a data centre, and other companies are following. About four data centres are currently under construction in Lagos. So, when it comes to IT and related infrastructure, Lagos is the place. With a population of 22 million — about twice the size of Sweden — the opportunities are vast, and we are open to collaboration,” he said.

In her remarks, the Crown Princess commended the Lagos State Government for being Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, owing to its vast business potential.

“We are very excited to be here and to explore what the Swedish-Nigerian relationship can develop into. We see vast areas of potential for further growth and cooperation. We are also pleased to be here with the Swedish companies already present in Nigeria,” she said.

Speaking to journalists, Sweden’s Minister of Infrastructure and Housing, Mr. Andreas Carlson, said the Crown Princess’s visit was aimed at strengthening ties in green economy initiatives, digital innovation, and the exchange of ideas between Sweden and Lagos for sustainable development. He revealed that the first-ever Swedish Trade Office in Nigeria would be inaugurated in Lagos on Tuesday by Princess Alice Désirée.

He stated: “Her Royal Highness, Crown Princess Victoria, is here in Lagos to underscore the importance of a strong relationship with Nigeria and Lagos State. We see opportunities for strengthening our already robust partnership, especially in green and digital transitions. With several Swedish companies already active in Lagos, we believe this is the best place to begin. We are very pleased with the level of cooperation we have achieved so far.”

During the visit, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, and the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, presented traditional African gifts to the Crown Princess. She was accompanied by the Nigerian Ambassador to Sweden, Ambassador Tiwatope Elias-Fatile, among other dignitaries.