Lagos, Canada Strengthen Strategic Partnership for Investment and Economic Growth

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to deepening international partnerships that promote investment, economic growth and sustainable opportunities for Lagosians.

Governor Sanwo-Olu stated this when he received the High Commissioner of Canada to Nigeria, Mr. Pasquale Salvaggio, and the Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Carlos Rojas-Arbulu, at Lagos House, Marina.

The meeting focused on opportunities to expand investment and strategic partnerships between Lagos and Canada, while exploring areas of mutual interest capable of delivering practical economic benefits to both sides.

The Governor emphasised that international partnerships must translate into tangible outcomes for citizens, noting that strong diplomatic relationships can serve as catalysts for economic growth.

“Strong international ties translate to real economic growth and we are always working to turn these diplomatic partnerships into practical opportunities and lasting value for all Lagosians.”

Building on a Growing Lagos - Canada Relationship

The latest engagement builds on a growing relationship between Lagos and Canada that has continued under the Sanwo-Olu administration.

In 2020, Governor Sanwo-Olu received the Mayor of Brampton, Ontario, Mr. Patrick Brown, at Lagos House. Discussions at the time included opportunities for cooperation in technology, ICT and other areas of mutual interest, with the Governor highlighting Lagos’ efforts to create an enabling environment for investment, including investment by Nigerians in the diaspora.

The relationship has since expanded across areas including healthcare, trade, investment and innovation, reflecting the shared interest of Lagos and Canada in strengthening economic and institutional partnerships.

The latest meeting therefore represents another step in Lagos State’s sustained efforts to connect with international partners and position the State as a preferred destination for global investment.

Turning Partnerships into Opportunities

Lagos continues to pursue an investment-driven development strategy focused on creating an enabling environment for businesses, investors and development partners.

The State Government has consistently reiterated that Lagos is open for business and ready to partner with credible local and international investors. In 2025, the State unveiled its Lagos Investment Deal Book, showcasing investment-ready projects across key sectors and reinforcing Lagos’ ambition to become a leading economic and innovation hub.

For Lagosians in the diaspora, stronger Lagos–Canada relations also present opportunities for investment, knowledge exchange, technology partnerships, entrepreneurship and access to international networks.

Through the Lagos State Office of Diaspora Affairs (LASDA), the State continues to strengthen engagement with Lagosians and partners across the world, encouraging diaspora participation in the development of a more prosperous and globally competitive Lagos.

The Governor’s latest engagement with the Canadian diplomatic leadership underscores the administration’s commitment to building partnerships that go beyond diplomatic conversations — partnerships that can attract investment, unlock opportunities, encourage innovation and create lasting value for the people of Lagos.

As Lagos continues to strengthen its global connections, the focus remains clear: turning international partnerships into practical opportunities and shared prosperity for Lagosians.