Ikeja, Lagos – Lagos State is determined to spearhead Nigeria’s industrial growth, forging a path towards self-sufficiency and global competitiveness. Mrs. Folashade Ambrose, the state’s Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, made this declaration on Monday at the Lagos State Industrial Policy Consultative Assembly and Validation Workshop held in Alausa, Ikeja.
Mrs. Folashade Ambrose emphasized the need for Lagos, Nigeria’s economic center, to lead in shaping a progressive and sustainable industrial landscape. She stressed that this system must capitalize on the state’s abundant human resources, strategic geographical location, and inherent entrepreneurial spirit.
Nigeria’s economy has continually thrived with Lagos as its driving force, Ambrose stated, functioning as the hub for trade, commerce, and industrialization, not only for the country but for the broader region. It is therefore vital that we take the forefront in establishing a self-sufficient industrial base that is both innovative and globally competitive.
The commissioner painted a vision of Lagos as a Next-Gen Economic Titan, a city with ambitious targets. These include evolving into a globally competitive industrial hub, a technology-driven economic powerhouse, Africa’s unrivaled financial and economic center, along with a sustainable and environmentally resilient metropolis.
Ambrose clarified that the industrial framework is not being created in isolation; instead, it is strategically integrated with the state’s current developmental policy documents. This alignment, she argued, is crucial for ensuring that Lagos’ industrial growth is not only dynamic and future-focused but also sustainable, wide-reaching, and anchored in social balance. The policy, she added, will be a cornerstone of the broader strategy to establish Lagos as a leading industrial force on the world stage.
Reuben Bamidele, the National Programme Officer for the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), served as the guest speaker at the workshop. He spoke on the importance of Long-term viability, innovation, and commitment to international standards in developing a robust and dynamic industrial sector.
Bamidele acknowledged the progress the Lagos State Government has made in simplifying business operations, executing smart city projects, encouraging eco-friendly manufacturing, and advancing digital innovation. He urged the state to place greater focus on key collaborations between the public and private sectors in eco-friendly industrial development, environmental responsibility, and resource-efficient economic models. He also recommended encouraging energy-efficient industries and resource-saving production methods as key factors for economic growth.
Looking towards the future, Bamidele stressed that in this era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Lagos must foster manufacturing processes that use technology, industry data, research, local and international business connections, and certified skilled workers.These factors, he argued, are essential for sustained growth and competitiveness in the global marketplace.
