Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has revealed ambitious plans to extend the state’s fibre-optic network by an additional 1,200 kilometers in 2025, enhancing the existing 2,500 kilometers. This announcement was made during the sixth edition of the Art of Technology Lagos Conference themed “AI and the Lagos Digital Economy.”
Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Governor Sanwo-Olu also disclosed plans to establish world-class data centers in Lagos within the next 24 months. These initiatives aim to provide the infrastructure needed for scalable and innovative solutions, further cementing Lagos’ position as Africa’s foremost technology hub. The state already accounts for over 60% of Nigeria’s tech startups and has seen Lagos-based startups raise over $1.2 billion in 2023, representing 75% of Nigeria’s total startup investments.
Governor Sanwo-Olu attributed these successes to deliberate policies fostering an innovation-friendly environment. The Safe City Project, which incorporates over 450 smart cameras, aims to enhance public safety and traffic management, while the Lagos Digital Service Platform seeks to deliver accessible, transparent, and efficient governance.
The Governor emphasized that the fibre-optic expansion will benefit businesses, schools, and residents, boosting connectivity and driving sustainable development. “These projects are not just about infrastructure; they are about empowering our people and driving sustainable development across sectors,” he said.
This strategic focus on technology and infrastructure is set to further establish Lagos as a leader in Africa’s digital economy, creating opportunities for innovation, growth, and improved public services.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has emphasized the tangible progress Lagos State has made in its digitization journey, noting that 14 government agencies have already digitized citizen-facing services. These advancements are improving transparency, efficiency, and accessibility across the state’s public services.
Speaking at the sixth Art of Technology Lagos Conference, the Governor, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, outlined key innovations, including the Enterprise Architecture Project. “With this project, we are harmonizing data systems to prepare for AI-driven service delivery,” Sanwo-Olu said. This system will enable faster responses and smoother interactions between citizens and the government, streamlining public services through cutting-edge technology.
The Lagos Digital Service Platform was also spotlighted as a transformative tool designed to bridge the gap between the government and the populace. By fostering trust and delivering impactful results, the platform aligns with the state’s vision for an accessible and citizen-centric governance model.
Sanwo-Olu reiterated Lagos’ commitment to sustainability through initiatives by the Lagos State Science, Research, and Innovation Council (LASRIC). The council has supported over 65 startups and 75 research projects, reinforcing Lagos as a hub for innovation and research-driven solutions.
These efforts demonstrate Lagos’ determination to leverage technology and innovation to enhance governance, stimulate economic growth, and address key challenges in a sustainable and inclusive manner.
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