Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to transforming Lagos into an attractive business hub, enticing a multitude of investors to bolster the state’s economic prosperity.
During a courtesy visit to the Lagos House, Marina, by the Acting Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the ongoing collaboration between the state government and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)
This partnership aims to enhance the efficiency of the state’s ports, rendering them globally competitive and positioning Lagos as a premier destination for West African nations.
Governor Sanwo-Olu further reiterated his government’s commitment to building a new port in the Badagry area of the State. This new port will play a crucial role in relieving congestion at the Apapa and Tincan Island ports, as well as attracting more investors to the region.
The State Government has already initiated discussions with a contractor for the construction of the Badagry Port.
Highlighting the significance of export diversification and reducing dependency on oil, Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the need to encourage manufacturers to engage in exporting. By doing so, they can stimulate foreign direct investment and increase foreign currency inflow, thereby bolstering the state’s economy.
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Acting Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi commended the strides made by Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration and recognized Lagos as Nigeria’s economic nerve center, contributing between 70 to 75 percent of Custom revenue in the country.
He pledged the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to combat smuggling, promote local production through “Made in Nigeria” products, and support the country’s economic growth.
Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged Lagos as a strategic hub for Customs operations and expressed his vision for a peaceful working environment in line with his SMART City initiative.
He emphasized the importance of operating within the framework of the law to ensure sustainable development and underscored the responsibility of government agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service, in contributing to Lagos’ progress.
The Governor assured the Acting Comptroller-General of Lagos’ continuous hospitality, offering an environment conducive for business and service, both for citizens and the international community.
The collective efforts of the Lagos State Government and the Nigeria Customs Service are expected to pave the way for further economic advancements, ultimately benefiting the region and its inhabitants.
(omayowa@globalfinancialdigest.com; Newsroom: +234 8033 964 138)
