Lagos to deepen trade and cultural ties with US says, Sanwo-Olu

Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has emphasised his commitment to consolidate on the state’s relationship with the United States (US) through US’s newly appointed Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills for more transformative development.

He gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by the ambassador to the Lagos House Marina, on Friday.

“Our hope is during your tenure we will be able to deepen that, we will actually improve upon it and create a very deep business economy, culture and relationships between the two countries.

“We will continue to play our own simple roles to make sure all that happens to drive what will improve our countries be it in engagement and security issues and stability to ensure that we keep the city safe and secured.

“To give it that international gateway for our investors in businesses and open opportunities for everyone. Those are some of the things that are driving us,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Amb. Mills first official visit was to the Lagos House since his appointment on Aug. 15.

Sanwo-Olu said that it was important to build on the existing partnership and continue to be partners in progress.

“Let me welcome you formally to Lagos, the commercial nerve centre of the country, Lagos is like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago all wrapped up in one.

“We will link Washington to Abuja, thank you for the kind words you used to describe our city. It’s an honour that your very first official trip from Abuja is to Lagos.

“Lagos has a whole lot of attachment to the United States, Walter Carrington houses your office here and it’s named after an American.

“We’re looking forward to addressing construction; we have seen growth in relationships, we see a very deliberate conversation as to advance the economic potential of the two countries and Lagos will continue to play a critical role in that space,” he said.

Amb. Mills, in his speech said he chose to come to Lagos first because “Lagos State matters”, and thanked the governor for his partnership expressing the hope for a more transformative relationship between them.