LASG Moves to Strengthen Bilateral Relations with UAE for Mutual Growth

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to foster partnerships that drive sustainable growth, trade, and innovation.

Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, gave this assurance during a courtesy visit by the UAE Consul-General, Salem Aljaberi, to the Roundhouse, Alausa, Ikeja.

Sanwo-Olu highlighted the long-standing ties between Nigeria and the UAE, stressing that Lagos is eager to expand areas of mutual benefit.

“Our president has visited your country twice, and he takes the UAE extremely seriously. It’s a nation we can build strong partnerships with—one that understands us, just as we understand them,” the Governor said.

The Governor also recalled the UAE’s consistent support, particularly in innovation and technology, noting Lagos’ participation at the annual GITEX event in Dubai. He revealed that the state has requested the Dubai World Trade Centre to host a GITEX programme in Lagos, through the Lagos State Science, Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC), to further empower young Nigerians excelling in Information Technology.

In his remarks, Consul-General Salem Aljaberi reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria, particularly Lagos.

“The trade or the relationship between the UAE and Nigeria is based on respect and brotherhood. We share the same values and culture. In the coming years, we need to be the number one partner with Nigeria,” he said.

Aljaberi disclosed that non-oil trade between the UAE and Nigeria grew by 60% to reach $4.3 billion in 2024, but stressed the need to double this figure in the near future.

Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1982, both countries have worked to build a mutually beneficial relationship—one that continues to grow in trade, cultural exchange, and shared innovation.