Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has stressed the need for a collaborative effort between state and federal governments to bolster the nation’s industries.
Speaking today through the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat while receiving the Hon. Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh on a courtesy call at the Deputy Governor’s Official Residence, Osborne Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, the Governor noted that the partnership will drive economic growth and prosperity, owing to the critical role industries play in shaping a nation’s economy.
Sanwo-Olu added that by working together, governments can create an environment conducive to industrial development, ultimately benefiting the nation as a whole. He stressed that the call to action underscores the importance of cooperation and strategic planning in achieving economic prosperity.
According to the Governor, “As a government, we must continue to work together to create an enabling environment for the industry and stop the recent trend of industries relocating to other climes due to lack of government intervention, because the authorities are not aware of the industry challenges”.
Sanwo-Olu added that the government needs to make a new approach in interfacing with the business industry, citing the example of Unilever which left because they feel the government doesn’t positively influence the industry.
He noted that his administration is taking a proactive approach to address the challenges facing business owners in the state through the “BOS Meet Business initiative,” adding that the bold initiative aims to shed light on the issues and find solutions. He acknowledged that some challenges require collaboration with federal government agencies to resolve them.
The Governor, therefore, thanked Mr. President for creating a Ministry that will interface with the Industry to solve their challenges and create an enabling environment for them to thrive.
Earlier in his address, Minister of State for Industry in the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Sen. John Owan Enoh disclosed that the team is currently in Lagos for an Industrial Tour to gain firsthand insight into the constraints and challenges faced by industries in the country.
His words, “This proactive approach will enable the government to create a more favourable business environment, driving economic prosperity and benefiting the nation as a whole”.
He, therefore, appreciated the Lagos State government for creating an enabling environment for businesses in the state to flourish, adding that the president will continue to support the industries for the betterment of the nation.
Gbenga Omotoso
Dr. Obafemi Hamzat
Babajide Sanwo-Olu