Ayodele Olalere
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has signed a third Executive Order, establishing Lagos International Financial Council, LIFC, making Lagos one of the International Financial Clearing centre.
The governor inaugurated the council on Friday at the Lagos House, Ikeja. The establishment of the council was in partnership with EnterpriseNGR, a private organisation.
With the inauguration, Lagos became the first African participants invited to join the prestigious Lord Mayor’s Show’s 805th procession in London.
The show will afford the state the opportunity to showcase the investment potential of Lagos and elevate the state as a global investment destination.
According to the governor, the collaboration between Lagos State and EnterpriseNGR is built on their shared goal of positioning Lagos as Africa’s premier financial centre.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the LIFC would help to align strategic partnerships that contribute to the economic prosperity of the state and Nigeria by establishing Africa’s premier International Financial Centre in Lagos in line with the economic recovery plans of the Federal government.
He further said Lagos’ invitation to the London show was an indication of the state’s economic importance.
“This invitation aligns harmoniously with the council’s mission to establish Lagos as a global financial hub, attracting investments that will fuel sustainable economic development.”
He noted that the state government partnered EnterpriseNGR in recognition of the fact that it stands as the voice of enterprise, fervently advocating for the growth and development of the Financial and Professional Services (FPS) sector.
Governor Sanwo-Olu added that the state would create an enabling environment for investors such as improving the tourism, entertainment and financial sectors, among others.
Also speaking, EnterpriseNGR’s Chairman, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede , who joins the governor as Co-Chair of the Council said EnterpriseNGR stands as a catalyst for transformative change in Nigeria’s financial and professional services sector.
“Our vision extends beyond advocacy; it’s a commitment to incentivise investments that go beyond financial gains,” Aigboje said.
The Chief Executive Officer of EnterpriseNGR Ms. Obi Ibekwe, also a member of the council, said EnterpriseNGR’s participation as part of delegations to the Lord Mayor’s Show underscores the critical role they play in driving transformative change within Nigeria’s Financial and Professional Services sector.
Other members of the council include Commissioner for Finance, Abayomi Oluyomi, Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Mosopefoluwa George, as well as some top members of EnterpriseNGR.
