Lagos leaders advocate for youth investment and digital scaling

During the Seyi Tinubu Colloquium in Lagos, former African Development Bank President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu called for increased investment in Africa's youth. Adesina emphasized that the continent's growing young population should be treated as a demographic asset rather than a liability, urging governments to provide quality education, healthcare, and access to finance. He specifically noted that financial institutions must move beyond traditional collateral requirements to support young entrepreneurs.

Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat also addressed the need to bridge Africa's technology scaling gap. He argued that while innovation is present, the challenge lies in creating the digital infrastructure and institutional reforms necessary to transform successful ideas into sustainable systems that serve millions.

Additionally, the Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to attracting international trade and private sector investment. Discussions at recent forums highlighted significant trade volumes between Nigeria and the European Union, with officials stressing the importance of improving infrastructure and simplifying business operations to foster economic growth.