Lagos unveils industrial policy, targets Africa’s manufacturing leadership

The Lagos State Government on Thursday launched its Industrial Policy 2025–2030, a strategic roadmap aimed at transforming the state into a leading manufacturing hub in Africa while driving investment, job creation and sustainable economic growth.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, said the policy responds to rapidly changing global industrial dynamics and positions Lagos to take a leadership role rather than merely adapt.

He noted that evolving supply chains, technological advancements and increasing demand for efficiency and innovation require bold policy direction to secure future competitiveness.

According to the governor, the policy is aligned with the state’s T.H.E.M.E.S Development Agenda and the Lagos State Development Plan 2052, both of which envision a globally competitive megacity driven by productivity, innovation and industrial excellence.

Sanwo-Olu explained that the framework is built on key pillars, including industrial infrastructure development, regulatory reforms, ease of doing business, access to finance, workforce development, and technology-driven innovation.

He added that the government plans to expand industrial clusters, improve port efficiency—particularly through the Lekki Deep Sea Port and strengthen transport systems to reduce logistics costs and enhance productivity.

The governor also said the policy would support small and medium-scale enterprises to scale operations and integrate into regional and global value chains, while leveraging opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area.

A representative of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment described the policy as a practical model that aligns with Nigeria’s national industrial agenda, particularly in promoting job creation and poverty reduction.

Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, characterised the initiative as a commitment between the government and residents, urging investors, financial institutions, academia and the diaspora to take advantage of emerging opportunities.

She said Lagos remains a high-yield industrial destination and called for stronger collaboration to translate policy into measurable economic outcomes.

The unveiling signals the state’s renewed push to strengthen its industrial base, attract both local and foreign investment, and consolidate its position as Nigeria’s economic nerve centre and a gateway to West Africa.