Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for increased support from the World Bank Group following the state’s rise to first place in Nigeria’s Ease of Doing Business ranking for 2025.
The governor made the appeal on Monday during a meeting with a World Bank delegation led by Managing Director for Operations, Anna Bjerde, and IFC Regional Vice President for Africa, Ethiopia Tafara, at the Lagos House, Marina.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’ dramatic improvement, noting, “Four years ago, Lagos was ranked 29th nationally. Last year, we moved to first place. That did not happen by chance. It came from being more deliberate, more consistent, and more accountable in how government works.”
He discussed potential areas for deeper collaboration, including energy, agriculture, tourism, and human capital development, emphasizing the state’s commitment to improving infrastructure and living standards.
“We are actively seeking partnerships and investments that will raise living standards,” the governor stated, adding that Lagos is prepared to take necessary steps to earn greater support for projects impacting daily life.
Reflecting on progress under his administration’s THEMES+ agenda, Sanwo-Olu said, “Millions of Lagosians have seen real improvements, and while there is still a lot to do, the progress is measurable.”
The meeting underscores Lagos’ push to attract global partnerships and investments to sustain its development momentum.
