The drive to unlock Nigeria’s economic potential gained momentum on Friday as the Honourable Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, led a delegation of prominent Southeast business leaders on a courtesy visit to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The meeting, held at the Lagos State Government House, focused on forging stronger partnerships between government and private sector players to accelerate growth, investment, and innovation across Nigeria.
Dr. Uzoka-Anite commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s transformative leadership and Lagos’ role as the nation’s commercial engine.
“It’s always a pleasure to be in Lagos — a city that truly never sleeps, and one that continues to lead the way in innovation, enterprise, and economic growth,” she said.
Delivering warm greetings from the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, the Minister praised Lagos for aligning closely with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“You have demonstrated that when the Federal and State Governments work together, progress is both achievable and sustainable,” she added.
The Minister explained that the visit was in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to deepen engagement with key stakeholders on economic development. She also unveiled an upcoming initiative — the Government and Private Sector (GPS) Dialogue Series — designed to create a continuous platform for collaboration between policymakers and business leaders.
The inaugural edition of the GPS Dialogue will hold on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja.
“The idea behind the GPS Dialogue is simple but powerful — a space where government and business can sit together, share perspectives, and co-create practical solutions that drive inclusive growth,” Uzoka-Anite said.
She described Lagos as the natural starting point for the Dialogue.
“There is no better place to begin this bridge between policy and practice than right here in Lagos — the commercial heartbeat of Nigeria and West Africa.”
Dr. Uzoka-Anite also introduced the Southeast business delegation accompanying her, describing them as “a shining example of Nigeria’s entrepreneurial spirit — people who have made Lagos their home and continue to contribute daily to its growth.”
She reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to empowering MSMEs, improving access to finance, and deepening reforms that promote fair competition and innovation.
“Together, we share a common vision — to build a Nigeria where enterprise is encouraged, innovation is rewarded, and prosperity is within the reach of every hardworking citizen.”
In his remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu welcomed the Minister and her team, assuring them of Lagos State’s readiness to collaborate with the Federal Government and private sector leaders for shared progress.
He commended the choice of Lagos as host city for the GPS Dialogue and reiterated his administration’s support for policies that promote equity, justice, and opportunity for all Nigerians.
The delegation of business leaders also sought a closed-door session with the Governor to discuss joint development initiatives, including plans for a Lagos-Igbo Consultative Council aimed at deepening cooperation and mutual prosperity.
With stronger ties between the Federal Government, Lagos State, and the private sector, Dr. Uzoka-Anite said Nigeria is well-positioned to “build bridges that connect ambition with action and policy with progress.”
