Lagos business ranking rises to first nationally, prompting Governor Sanwo-Olu to seek World Bank support for further development

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for enhanced support from the World Bank Group following the state’s achievement as Nigeria’s top-ranked state in the 2025 Ease of Doing Business report.

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The governor welcomed a World Bank delegation led by Managing Director for Operations, Anna Bjerde, and the International Finance Corporation Regional Vice President for Africa, Ethiopia Tafara, to Lagos House, Marina.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’ dramatic improvement, noting that the state rose from 29th place four years ago to first place last year.

“That did not happen by chance. It came from being more deliberate, more consistent, and more accountable in how government works,” he said.

The governor discussed potential areas for deeper collaboration with the World Bank, including energy, agriculture, tourism, and human capital development.

He emphasised the state’s commitment to improving infrastructure and living standards for residents.

“We are actively seeking partnerships and investments that will raise living standards,” Sanwo-Olu said, adding that Lagos is prepared to take necessary steps to earn greater support, particularly for projects that directly affect daily life.

Reflecting on the THEMES+ agenda over the past six years, the governor said the administration has focused on delivering tangible results that residents can experience.

“Millions of Lagosians have seen real improvements, and while there is still much to do, the progress is measurable,” he added.

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The meeting underscores Lagos’ push to attract global partnerships and investment to sustain its development momentum, further consolidating its position as a business-friendly state in Nigeria.