Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Governor announced plans to strengthen its bilateral relationship with Sweden in information technology, cyber security, and infrastructure for the good of the residents.
The Governor made this known during a formal visit to the Lagos House, Marina by the Crown Princess of Sweden and Duchess of Vastergotland, Her Royal Highness, Princess Alice Desiree, and her entourage.
He said, “We need a lot of technology. We are building fibre optics of about 6,800 kilometres across our state. We finished the first phase, about 3,500 kilometres, to increase the bandwidth penetration in our state. Interestingly, a lot of companies are coming. Google is building a data centre, and other companies are coming. About four data centres are being built now in Lagos.
“So for IT and other related infrastructure, Lagos is the place. With a population of 22 million, about twice the size of Sweden, the opportunity is wide, and we would like to engage.
The crown princess of Sweden and Duchess of Vastergotland, Her Royal Highness, Princess Alice while speaking commended Lagos state government for being the economic backbone of the country.
She said, “We are very excited to be here and to see what the Swedish-Nigerian relationship can develop into. We see vast areas of potential for further growth and cooperation. We are very happy to be here with the Swedish companies already present in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Infrastructure and Housing in Sweden, Mr Andreas Carlson while addressing newsmen revealed that the purpose of the Crown Princess’s visit to the state is to build stronger ties in green economy, digital innovation, and exchange of ideas between Lagos and Sweden for better development.
He said, “Her Royal Highness the Crown Princess Victoria is here in Lagos to underline the importance of a strong relationship and partnership with Nigeria and Lagos State. We see opportunities to strengthen the already strong partnership between our two countries. We see opportunities when it comes to green and digital transition.
“We have well-represented companies already in Lagos. Today the Crown Princess Victoria will inaugurate a Swedish Trade Office here in Lagos, which will be the first trade office in Nigeria. We think Lagos is the place to start. We are really happy about the cooperation we already have.”
