The Lagos State Government has tasked the State’s Export Promotion Committee with intensifying efforts to position Lagos as a leading hub for non-oil exports in Nigeria and across Africa. The charge was delivered by Dr. Olugbemiga Aina, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment (MCCTI), during a strategic meeting of the committee on Thursday.
Dr. Aina described the meeting as a platform for agreeing on bold, actionable, and measurable steps to diversify Lagos State’s economy. He highlighted key opportunities in sectors such as coconut, fisheries, vegetables, and other products from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), where Lagos holds a strong comparative advantage.
Reflecting on recent achievements, Dr. Aina noted that Lagos commenced the export of coconuts to Dubai in December 2024, demonstrating that high standards and value addition enable local products to compete internationally. He further highlighted progress in sensitizing MSMEs about opportunities within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, while acknowledging that much remains to be done to prepare entrepreneurs for global competition.
Dr. Aina emphasized the Lagos State Government’s commitment to supporting MSMEs through initiatives such as subsidized industrial workplaces, capacity building, research and innovation promotion, expanded access to finance via the 10 billion naira Lagos State Access to Finance through Cooperatives (LASMECO) programme, and facilitating linkages with off-takers and international buyers. He stressed that increased exports will diversify the economy, create sustainable jobs, and strengthen resilience against external shocks.
He also reaffirmed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration’s dedication to creating an enabling environment for exports through progressive policies and Public-Private Partnerships, aligned with the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Development Agenda. “Together, we have the capacity to make Lagos Africa’s foremost hub for non-oil exports. The responsibility is ours, and the time is now,” Dr. Aina said.
Mrs. Bolanle Emmanuel, representing the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), noted that joint training sessions for stakeholders are planned to expand both the range and volume of Nigerian exportable goods. Assistant Commissioner of Police Mary Ayim, representing the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, stressed the importance of timely communication from stakeholders on the movement of export goods to minimize delays at checkpoints and prevent spoilage.
Committee members unanimously agreed to host quarterly meetings to maintain consistent dialogue, monitor progress, and ensure sustained engagement in promoting non-oil exports.
Looking ahead, the initiatives are expected to significantly enhance Lagos’ international trade profile, create opportunities for youth and women in the export sector, and position local entrepreneurs to compete on global platforms. By combining innovation, capacity building, and strategic partnerships, Lagos is set to become a model for sustainable economic diversification and inclusive growth across Africa.
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