Korede Abdullah 
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government says it is funding about 90 research and development projects and has deployed more than 3,000 kilometres of fibre-optic infrastructure to accelerate innovation, digital connectivity and economic growth.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu disclosed this on Tuesday during the Women in Technology and Engineering Summit and Awards (WITESA 5.0) in Lagos.
The governor described Lagos as Nigeria’s largest public-sector investor in innovation and research, supporting projects across four major universities.
“More than 3,000 kilometres of fibre-optic cable were laid between 2019 and 2025, expanding connectivity and supporting economic growth,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He said the government remains committed to broadband expansion, digital governance and smart-city initiatives designed to strengthen Lagos’ competitiveness.
Sanwo-Olu also expressed concern over the low participation of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
“This is not merely a gender issue; it is an economic and competitiveness issue. Africa cannot afford to leave half of its talent pool behind,” he said.
The governor called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, academia and industry stakeholders to increase women’s participation in STEM and the digital economy.
Convener of WITESA 5.0, Motunrayo Opayinka, said the summit seeks to amplify women’s contributions to science and technology.
“The future of Africa will be shaped by women, and innovation reaches its fullest potential when women are leaders, creators and entrepreneurs,” she said.
Co-convener David Ogebe noted that women account for approximately 26 per cent of engineering professionals globally and about 15 per cent of technology professionals.
He urged young women to embrace opportunities in STEM and innovation.
“The path has been paved. What was not possible 20 years ago is possible today. Young women must seize the opportunities,” he said.
About the Author
Otamere Gladness 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwafunbi Bello