Lagos, Nordic Nations Deepen Innovation Ties to Drive Africa’s Sustainable Future

Lagos State is strengthening its global innovation credentials through a new partnership with Nordic nations aimed at advancing green technology, digital transformation, and sustainable development across Africa.

The collaboration, unveiled at the Nordic Nigeria Connect (NNC) conference in Lagos, brings together Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark under the newly launched Lagos–Nordic Innovation Corridor  a platform designed to foster investment, research, and technology exchange between both regions.

Representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Samuel Egube, Deputy Chief of Staff, said the partnership reflects Lagos’ readiness to move from policy discussions to execution. “This is a shift from invitation to implementation. Lagos is open for co-creation a city ready to turn ideas into measurable impact,” he said.

Egube added that the state’s vision aligns with the Nordic tradition of innovation rooted in sustainability, highlighting key sectors such as clean energy, smart mobility, digital health, and agritech as immediate areas of collaboration.

Denmark’s Secretary of State for Trade and Investment, Lina Gandløse Hansen, praised Nigeria’s growing economic resilience and democratic progress, noting that Denmark’s Africa’s Century Strategy places high priority on partnerships that promote food security, digital innovation, and maritime logistics.

Finland’s Deputy Minister for International Trade, Jarno Syrjälä, said the new corridor signals a transition from aid-based cooperation to technology-driven growth. “We see Lagos as a natural gateway for Nordic innovation in Africa,” he said. “The goal is to co-create practical, scalable solutions that benefit both regions.”

Also speaking, Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, said collaboration with Nordic countries will deepen Nigeria’s capacity in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and satellite technology. “We want partnerships that inspire empathy and mutual value not just investment,” he added.

Sweden’s Deputy Director-General for Africa, Johan Frisell, identified fintech, edtech, and green energy as critical pillars of cooperation, while Norway’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Svein Baera, encouraged Nigeria to emulate Norway’s successful diversification from oil into renewable energy innovation.

The Lagos–Nordic Innovation Corridor is expected to strengthen Lagos’ status as Africa’s preferred destination for sustainable business, innovation exchange, and climate-friendly technology.

As Egube put it, “Lagos is ready to lead Africa’s next innovation chapter where growth, sustainability, and opportunity converge.”