Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for increased support from the World Bank Group following Lagos’ emergence as Nigeria’s top-ranked state in the 2025 Ease of Doing Business report.
The governor made the call on Monday while welcoming a delegation from the World Bank Group to Lagos House, Marina, according to a post obtained from his official X handle.
The delegation was led by the Managing Director for Operations at the World Bank Group, Anna Bjerde, and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) Regional Vice President for Africa, Ethiopia Tafara.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’ dramatic improvement in the Ease of Doing Business ranking, noting that the state moved from 29th position four years ago to first place last year.
“One example is the Ease of Doing Business ranking. Four years ago, Lagos was ranked 29th nationally. Last year, we moved to first place. That did not happen by chance. It came from being more deliberate, more consistent, and more accountable in how government works,” the governor said.
During the meeting, Sanwo-Olu identified key areas where Lagos is seeking to deepen collaboration with the World Bank Group. These include energy, agriculture, tourism, and human capital development.
He stressed the state government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and raising the living standards of residents across Lagos.
“We are actively seeking partnerships and investments that will raise living standards,” the governor said. He added that Lagos is ready to take the necessary steps to earn greater support, particularly for projects that have a direct impact on daily life in the state.
Sanwo-Olu also reflected on the progress made under the THEMES+ agenda over the past six years, noting that the administration has prioritised policies and projects that deliver tangible outcomes for residents.
“Millions of Lagosians have seen real improvements, and while there is still a lot to do, the progress is measurable,” he said.
The meeting with the World Bank delegation underscores Lagos State’s drive to attract global partnerships and investments aimed at sustaining its development momentum and economic growth.
