By Sodiq Adelakun
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on the Franco-Nigerian Chamber of Commerce to deepen collaboration with the State by building sustained technology and innovation linkages that support the fast-growing startup ecosystem.
The governor made the call at the French Week 2025 Business Forum in Lagos, where he described the State’s startup environment as dynamic, youthful, entrepreneurial and ambitious.
He was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem.
Sanwo-Olu said the Chamber has a central role in connecting French accelerators with Lagos-based hubs, venture capital firms with local startups, and research and development institutions across both countries.
He noted that Lagos has grown into one of Africa’s foremost innovation centres, attracting more than $6 billion in startup investments between 2019 and 2024.
He urged innovators across both markets to work closely with Lagos State in co-creating technology-driven solutions that meet local needs.
He added that French tech firms, investors and incubators stand to gain significantly by partnering with Lagos innovators to develop solutions for Africa and global markets.
President of the Franco-Nigerian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Guillaume Niarfeix, said the Chamber remains committed to fostering meaningful networking opportunities for all partners.
He noted that the organisation is focused on strengthening France–Nigeria business relations and supporting projects that benefit both sides.
Niarfeix commended the Lagos State Government for its continued investment drive, noting that about $260 billion worth of public–private partnership projects are currently ongoing in the State.
He said such investments create substantial opportunities for collaboration with the private sector.
He added that the Chamber looks forward to deepening joint initiatives and seeing more Omi-Eko projects that enhance innovation, sustainability and mutual economic growth.