Sweden launches largest African innovation hub in Lagos
Sweden has announced the inauguration of its largest innovation hub in Africa, located in Lagos State, Nigeria, marking a significant step forward in bilateral collaboration between the two countries.The declaration came on Monday during a meeting between Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shettima, and Her Royal Highness, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, in the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The event was part of the Princess's three-day official visit to Nigeria, which intended to strengthen diplomatic and commercial connections.
According to a statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), both delegations reaffirmed their commitment to improving cooperation through commerce, sustainable development, gender equality, and cultural interaction.
Speaking at the meeting, Sweden's Minister for Infrastructure and Housing, Andreas Carlson, emphasised that the country sees enormous promise in Nigeria, notably in innovation and technology.
"This will shape a better future for tomorrow for our people," Carlson said, adding that Sweden's actual trade office in Lagos would officially open on Tuesday. "We have opened five innovation hubs across Africa, the largest of which is located in Nigeria. We are excited to explore many more potential in health, agriculture, and education.
Vice President Shettima expressed confidence in the growing collaboration, characterising it as "anchored in innovation, powered by people, and guided by our shared determination to uplift communities and secure prosperity for generations to come."
He emphasised prospects for partnership in renewable energy, precision agriculture, healthcare innovation, and gender inclusion, all of which Sweden has established global leadership in.
Shettima also mentioned his October 2024 visit to Stockholm, when he signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Ericsson to enhance Nigeria's 5G innovation.
"Beyond the digital frontier, Swedish enterprises continue to invest in our human capital and sustainable development," he said, praising the Swedish edtech firm SchoolTry for its efforts to improve educational achievements in Nigeria.
Crown Princess Victoria welcomed the expanding connection as necessary and essential, emphasising Sweden's strong interest in Nigeria's development.
"It's fantastic to see the prospects here. "This is especially important in the current times," she remarked. "Our countries are partners in many sectors, and the opening of this trade office is a step forward for both our nations."
The visit and the new innovation cluster represent a new chapter in Nigeria and Sweden's 65-year relationship, paving the way for further institutional collaboration, private sector participation, and cross-cultural conversation.
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