Sanwo-Olu calls for stronger state-federal collaboration to strengthen industries

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has emphasized the need for increased collaboration between state and federal governments to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial sector and foster economic growth.

Sanwo-Olu, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, made this call while receiving the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, during a courtesy visit at the Deputy Governor’s residence in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Highlighting the critical role of industries in driving national economic prosperity, Sanwo-Olu stressed that joint efforts by both tiers of government could create a more conducive environment for industrial growth.

“As a government, we must work together to create an enabling environment for industries and halt the trend of companies relocating due to lack of support and intervention,” he said.

The governor cited Unilever’s recent exit from the country as a case study of companies leaving due to perceived inadequate government support.

He called for a new approach to engaging with businesses and highlighted the “BOS Meet Business” initiative aimed at identifying and solving challenges faced by business owners in Lagos. However, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged that some of these challenges require federal government cooperation.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu for establishing a ministry dedicated to interfacing with industries, expressing optimism about its role in providing solutions and fostering an enabling environment for businesses.

In his remarks, Senator John Enoh revealed that his team was in Lagos for an industrial tour to gain firsthand insights into the challenges faced by industries across the country.

Enoh described the initiative as a step towards creating a more favorable business environment that will drive economic prosperity nationwide.

He also commended the Lagos State government for fostering a supportive environment for businesses and assured that the federal government remains committed to supporting the industrial sector for the nation’s economic advancement.