Korede Abdullah 
Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu
LAGOS, Nigeria – Lagos State unveils a formal roadmap to establish the Lagos International Financial Centre (LIFC), positioning Nigeria as West Africa’s leading financial hub and a magnet for global capital.
The roadmap, developed by TheCityUK in partnership with the UK Government and Lagos authorities, was launched on Monday at the State House, Marina, and aligns with Nigeria’s Agenda 2050 and the Lagos Development Plan 2052.
The report calls for an independent regulatory framework, simplified tax policies and transparent governance to boost investor confidence. It identifies green finance, fintech innovation and commodities trading as priority growth sectors.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu says the initiative aims to deepen capital markets and strengthen financial infrastructure.
“Lagos is already Nigeria’s economic engine. This centre creates an ecosystem that attracts liquidity, investment and partnerships,” he says.
British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter describes the project as a milestone in UK–Nigeria cooperation.
“This can unlock domestic and international investment, create jobs and support sustainable growth,” he says.
TheCityUK’s Nicola Watkinson calls Nigeria a high-growth market, noting that the centre could attract long-term global capital while building opportunities for young professionals.
The roadmap also recommends legal reforms, talent development pipelines and visa flexibility to attract global expertise, positioning Lagos as a competitive international financial destination.
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Mirian Gom 
Oluwafunbi Bello 