10th September, 2024
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has received commendation from the World Bank for the significant transformation witnessed in the state over the past five years.
The global financial institution lauded the state’s progress in enhancing the quality of life for residents and its commitment to upgrading infrastructure to boost socio-economic development.
The commendation was delivered by the World Bank’s Country Director for Nigeria, Mr. Ndiama Diop, during a courtesy visit to Governor Sanwo-Olu at the State House in Marina on Tuesday.
Diop praised the reforms initiated by the Sanwo-Olu administration, particularly in the transportation sector, which has expanded Lagos’ multimodal transport network.
“I want to commend and congratulate the Lagos State Government under your leadership for the successful efforts and vision in transforming the transportation landscape of Lagos, which has become a model for a modern city,” Diop said.
He highlighted the administration’s delivery of intra-city rail infrastructure and investment in waterways, which have greatly enhanced the state’s economic prospects.
Diop also acknowledged the broader socio-economic development across various sectors under Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, noting that the quality of infrastructure had significantly improved the lives of residents.
“The administration’s achievements in catalyzing socio-economic growth and improving private sector development are commendable, and the positive impacts of these efforts are visible.”
The World Bank expressed its willingness to collaborate with the Lagos State Government, pledging funding support to address operational gaps and enhance efficiency in key sectors.
In response, Governor Sanwo-Olu welcomed the partnership, emphasizing the need for strategic support to further strengthen Lagos’ transportation infrastructure.
He noted that the state had made significant investments in modern transportation systems and was now shifting towards greener solutions that would reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
“Our vision has always been to create sustainable economic prosperity for Lagos. Through our THEMES+ development agenda, we have made targeted interventions across all sectors, particularly public transportation, aiming to ensure predictable travel times for residents,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The Governor also sought the World Bank’s collaboration in areas such as waste-to-energy initiatives, conservation efforts, job creation, and skills development.
He highlighted the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, which has been exerting pressure on the state’s infrastructure and economic systems.
