By Moses Adeniyi
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has declared commitment of his administration to further invest and promote technical education to produce a “world-class workforce” for industrial economy growth.
Sanwo-Olu who also said in line with the purpose he would ensure business-friendly regulations and provision of infrastructure to make Lagos the first choice for business in West African, made the commitment at the event of the completion ceremony of the first 2000 vehicles assembled by GAC motors at WEMCO road, Ogba, in Ikeja, the State Capital,
“On our part, we shall continue to find ways to support your growth and that of other private sector players. Through business-friendly regulations, provision of infrastructure, and investments in quality technical education to produce world-class workforce, we are committed to ensuring that Lagos remains the first choice for business, not only in Nigeria but across the West African landscape,” Sanwo-Olu said.
On the feat by CIG Motors, he said: “I stand before you today, enveloped with immense pride
and optimism, as we celebrate a monumental achievement in the industrious heart of Lagos. Our vibrant city now hosts a thriving hub of automotive excellence, thanks to the diligent efforts of CIG Motors, a commendable Chinese indigenous car manufacturing entit.
“Today, we applaud their remarkable milestone of assembling 2,000 vehicles right here on Lagos soil.”
According to him, the accomplishment is not just a testament to their expertise, but a reflection of the promising synergy between international partnerships and local talent.
Sanwo-Olu noted that In a rapidly globalizing world, such collaborations between the government and sustainable company, is the propellers of sustainable economic growth.
“The establishment of CIG Motors here is a glowing emblem of our state’s openness to investments that foster job creation, skill development, wealth creation, and entrepreneurial opportunities,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu said the ripple effect of CIG Motors’ establishment extends far beyond the automotive sector,mentioning “it has ushered in a new dawn of employment, providing our industrious youth with well-deserved jobs, thereby contributing significantly to reducing unemployment rates in Lagos State.”
He added that the skill transfer and technical training programmes initiated by CIG Motors have empowered many unemployed individuals, arming them with the requisite skills to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
“Furthermore, the wealth creation derived from this venture is palpable,” he said, explaining that “through increased economic activity, supply chain development and ancillary businesses, wealth is
being created and evenly distributed among our people.”
The initiative of the Lagos state-sponsored taxi-hailing service, LagRide, is in synergy with CIG Motors, an initiative Sanwo-Olu said has not only provided affordable and quality transportation for Lagosians, but also opened up “a plethora of entrepreneurial opportunities for many.”
The LagRide scheme exclusively uses the GS3 SUV and GA4 Saloon cars that are assembled in Lagos by CIG Motors.
Sanwo-Olu described the vehicles produced as not just machines; but “mobile assets, sources of income, and symbols of economic empowerment.”
He congratulated the Chairman and Board of GIC Motors, as well as the Management and Staff, for the “resounding success achieved so far”, urging them not to rest on their laurels but continue to seek innovative ways to grow.
He challenged the management to hit the next 2,000 vehicles in half the time it has taken them to achieve the first.
“My Office, as always, will be open for productive Motor engagements on these and many more,” he promised.
The Chairman, CIG Motors, Chief Diana Chen on her part, said the organisation is celebrating the great stride it has recorded within a very short time, not just because the brand as grown as a preferred choice among Nigerians, but more because of macro economic impacts.
“For me and for us at CIG Motors, it goes beyond the fact that in a short term our brand has grown to become the preferred choice for most fans, organisations, governments institutions, and individuals,” she said, mentioning the contributions has added economic value such as transfer of technical expertise to Nigerians, adding that many young Nigerians have been trained and certified both in Nigeria and China in local assembling.
She added that the organisation has leverage on the path of public private partnership (PPP) and consumer satisfaction,appreciating Governor Sanwo-Olu for what she described as his “transformational and excellent leadership” which she acknowledged has played key role “for the success of this project.”
She said his contribution has shown Nigeria, “especially Lagos State is ready for business.”
“We are proud to have you as our partner Mr. Governor,” she said.