Sanwo-Olu Calls for Stronger Ties with NPA to Boost Port Efficiency
Kehinde Adeleye
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for deeper collaboration between the Lagos State Government and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of ports in the state.
Sanwo-Olu made the call on Monday during a courtesy visit by the NPA Board of Directors, led by its Chairman, Senator Adedayo Adeyeye, at Lagos House, Marina.
The Governor emphasized that ports play a central role in the economic development of both Lagos and Nigeria, stressing the need for continuous partnership to advance President Bola Tinubu’s vision for a modern, efficient maritime sector.
“We have significantly solved the Apapa gridlock problem and contributed to easing traffic congestion at Apapa and Tin Can ports,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Ports are national assets that generate huge revenue, and we can achieve more if we work together.”
The Governor, however, expressed concern over reckless driving by truck operators around port corridors, noting that such behavior contributes to nearly 60 percent of road accidents recorded in Lagos.
In his remarks, NPA Chairman Senator Adedayo Adeyeye commended the Lagos State Government for its efforts in addressing port traffic challenges and maintaining a cordial working relationship with the Authority.
He described Lagos as the state with the least port-community conflicts in the country and assured that the NPA Board would continue to work closely with the government to sustain progress in the sector.
SMEs: The Engine of Lagos Economy
Governor Sanwo-Olu also reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), describing them as the backbone of Nigeria’s economic growth.
He made the remarks while receiving the Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr. Charles Odii, who paid him a courtesy visit.
“SMEs are the heartbeat of any thriving economy. Lagos will continue to champion initiatives that help small and medium businesses expand and compete globally,” the Governor said.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his government’s focus on business growth, financial inclusion, and entrepreneurial development to empower local enterprises and strengthen the state’s economy.
Mr. Odii commended Lagos for creating a conducive environment for SMEs, describing the state as a model for entrepreneurship and innovation. He called for sustained collaboration to further empower businesses that drive economic activity across the state.
