SANWO-OLU ENGAGES CHATHAM HOUSE IN LONDON, HIGHLIGHTS NIGERIA’S DEMOCRATIC AND ECONOMIC PROGRESS

SANWO-OLU ENGAGES CHATHAM HOUSE IN LONDON, HIGHLIGHTS NIGERIA’S DEMOCRATIC AND ECONOMIC PROGRESS

Calls for Balanced Global Narrative on Africa’s Development

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Wednesday held a high-level bilateral meeting with Ms. Tighisti Amare, Director of the Africa Programme at Chatham House, London, where discussions centered on Nigeria’s development trajectory, democratic evolution, and economic prospects through the Lagos perspective.

The strategic engagement, which took place at Chatham House in London, provided an opportunity for robust conversations around Nigeria’s socio-economic realities, political climate, governance reforms, and the nation’s growing influence within Africa.

Speaking during the meeting, Ms. Tighisti Amare, on behalf of Chatham House, expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for honouring the institution’s invitation. She noted that Chatham House remains deeply interested in Nigeria because of the country’s strategic and influential role on the African continent.

According to her, the policy institute is keenly following developments in Nigeria, particularly in areas relating to economic reforms, social advancement, democratic governance, and preparations ahead of the 2027 presidential elections.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, while responding, provided a broad overview of Nigeria’s current socio-economic realities and highlighted the efforts being made at both national and sub-national levels to strengthen democratic institutions and improve the welfare of citizens.

The Governor specifically referenced the recent off-season governorship election in Ekiti State, describing the exercise as peaceful, transparent, free, and fair. He noted that the election reflected the maturity of Nigeria’s democratic process and underscored the nation’s commitment to credible electoral practices.

Governor Sanwo-Olu further stressed that Nigeria’s democracy continues to create room for political participation by all parties without interference from the ruling government, adding that the country remains committed to democratic principles, rule of law, and institutional growth.

He also urged global institutions and international observers to adopt a more balanced perspective when assessing Africa’s development story, emphasizing that while challenges exist, there are also numerous success stories and positive developments emerging from the continent.

“Every nation and every continent has its strengths and challenges. It is important that the brighter side of Africa’s story is equally projected to the world,” Governor Sanwo-Olu stated.

The meeting further reinforced Lagos State’s growing global engagement strategy and its commitment to fostering international partnerships that support sustainable development, economic growth, and democratic consolidation in Nigeria and across Africa.