Sweden opens trade office in Lagos, as Sanwo-Olu vows to strengthen relationship

By Sodiq Adelakun

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated his administration’s dedication to strengthening bilateral ties with the Kingdom of Sweden, with a focus on key areas such as information technology, cybersecurity, and infrastructure development, all aimed at benefiting the residents of Lagos.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, made this statement on Tuesday during a reception for the Crown Princess of Sweden and Duchess of Västergötland, Her Royal Highness Princess Alice Désirée, and her delegation at Lagos House, Marina.

Stressing Lagos’ strategic role as Nigeria’s commercial hub and a major player on the African continent, the governor conveyed the state’s openness to deepening its partnership with Sweden.

He drew attention to the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance its technological infrastructure, including the construction of 6,800 kilometres of fibre optic cables, with the first phase of 3,500 kilometres already completed.

“We are laying down approximately 6,800 kilometres of fibre optics across the state. We have finished the first phase — about 3,500 kilometres — to improve bandwidth penetration,” Governor Sanwo-Olu explained.

The governor also noted that with a population exceeding 22 million, Lagos offers significant potential for digital expansion and infrastructure growth.

In response, Crown Princess Alice Désirée expressed excitement about the visit and acknowledged Lagos as Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, praising the city’s vibrant business environment and the potential for further Swedish-Nigerian collaboration.

“We are thrilled to be here and to explore what the Swedish-Nigerian relationship can evolve into. We see vast potential for growth and cooperation,” said the Crown Princess.

Sweden’s Minister of Infrastructure and Housing, Mr. Andreas Carlson, who accompanied the Crown Princess, stated that the purpose of the visit was to strengthen ties in the areas of the green economy, digital innovation, and cross-border collaboration.

He also shared that Sweden would soon be launching its first Trade Office in Nigeria, with Lagos serving as its base.

“Her Royal Highness the Crown Princess Victoria is here in Lagos to underline the importance of a robust relationship with Nigeria and Lagos State,” Minister Carlson said.

The event also featured a cultural performance by the Lagos State Cultural Troupe, with Crown Princess Alice joining in a traditional dance.

Princess Alice Désirée was accompanied by Nigeria’s Ambassador to Sweden, Ambassador Tiwatope Elias-Fatile, and other dignitaries.

The delegation was welcomed at Murtala Muhammed International Airport by key Lagos State officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Dada.

At the reception, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, and the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, presented traditional African gifts to the Crown Princess as a gesture of goodwill.