SANWO-OLU SEEKS DEEPER LAGOS-US PARTNERSHIP AS NEW CONSUL GENERAL RESUMES

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for stronger economic and diplomatic cooperation between Lagos and the United States following the arrival of the newly appointed US Consul General in Lagos, Brandon Hudspeth.

Sanwo-Olu made the call at a welcome reception for Hudspeth held in Ikoyi, Lagos, where he highlighted opportunities for greater collaboration in trade, investment, technology, innovation and the creative economy.

The governor, who was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described Hudspeth's return to Lagos as significant because of his previous experience in the city.

Hudspeth previously served at the US Consulate in Lagos between 2020 and 2022 as Political-Economic Section Chief. Sanwo-Olu said his familiarity with Lagos and its economic environment would provide a useful foundation for advancing stronger partnerships between the state and the United States.

According to the governor, Lagos is interested in helping more local businesses gain access to the American market while also attracting additional investments from US companies and investors.

He identified technology, innovation and the creative industries as sectors where both sides could expand cooperation and create new opportunities for businesses and young people.

Sanwo-Olu also stressed the importance of removing barriers that could discourage investment and international cooperation. He highlighted the need to improve the ease of doing business, strengthen intellectual property protection and facilitate legitimate mobility and skills exchange.

The governor said the Lagos State Government's THEMES Plus Developmental Agenda was focused on creating a competitive and inclusive economy capable of attracting investment while providing opportunities for the state's rapidly growing population.

He expressed the state's readiness to work closely with Hudspeth and his team, stressing that the relationship should go beyond diplomatic engagements and produce practical benefits for residents.

Sanwo-Olu said stronger cooperation should translate into job creation, expanded markets, increased investment and greater opportunities for young Nigerians.

The governor also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing US Consul General, Rick Swart, and thanked him for his service and engagement with Lagos during his tenure.

He assured Hudspeth of the Lagos State Government's cooperation and support as he begins his new assignment in Nigeria.

In his response, Hudspeth commended the Lagos State Government for the transformation he observed across the state since his previous tour of duty.

The new consul general specifically noted the progress made in infrastructure development, saying he was impressed by the changes recorded in Lagos since he last served in the city.

Hudspeth also pledged to build on existing areas of cooperation and work towards deepening relations between Lagos and the United States.

The reception was attended by government officials, diplomats, business leaders and other stakeholders, reflecting the importance attached to the relationship between Lagos and the US.

With Hudspeth beginning his tenure, both sides are expected to explore new areas of collaboration, particularly in investment, technology, trade and the creative economy, as Lagos continues its efforts to attract international partnerships and expand its economic opportunities.