The newly elected Director-General of the World Trade Organization, WTO, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and the President, African Development Bank, AfDB, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, on Tuesday called for development in economic infrastructure, investment in youths, and enhanced private sector contribution for Lagos to achieve its vision of becoming a smart city.
The duo spoke virtually at the first day of ongoing three-day economic Summit in Lagos tagged, “Eghingbeti Lagos Economic Summit 2021 with the theme, ” Setting the tone for a greater Lagos” at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
In a virtual questions and answers with Governor Sanwo-Olu, Okonjo-Iweala said apart from construction of roads, Lagos should invest in technology such as broadband for every household, embrace artificial Intelligence and Digital economy, ensure steady and sustainable supply of electricity and renewable energy/Green to remain competitive in the next decade.
She added the state should harness the youths by providing employment. She further advised the state government to move from importing raw materials but exporting primary raw products to value and processing, to industrialize Africa.
In his contributions, Dr. Akinwunmi of African Development Bank said the youths are the asset for the state and should be given chance.
He said the state should also invest in education by turning tertiary institutions in the state to world class.
“Youths are not the problem of Lagos, they are the asset. The slogan should not be the young shall grow, but the youths have arrived. Youths do not need empowerment or handouts, what they need is investment.
He pointed out that the poverty level in Lagos has reduced from 30.3% in 2009 to 4.5% in 2019, adding however that 20% of the Lagos” population live in slum.
He explained that a prosperous Lagos will bring a healthier Lagos.” A lot need to be done in tertiary education especially in science. We must turn tertiary institutions in Lagos to world class.
“The climate situation in Lagos should be attended to urgently. There is slow need to invest more in transport system,” he said.
He further said:” Private sector need to be mobilised to support the new Lagos. There must be accountability for taxes collected. I see a greater Lagos , a Lagos where visions are turned into reality and where women and youths thrive.”
