Governor Sanwo-Olu on Nigeria committing $100mn towards achieving SDGs

Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has made a bold commitment towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by pledging $100 million over the next five years for projects aimed at uplifting the people of Lagos from poverty. Speaking at the 2019 Global Citizen Festival in New York, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the need for collaborative efforts from various stakeholders including the World Bank, corporate organizations, civil society, and government at both national and sub-national levels. Sanwo-Olu highlighted the importance of creative financing and engagement with the private sector. One significant initiative already underway in Lagos is the collaboration with an international advertisement company that is implementing a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project to deploy self-cleaning public toilets in the city. This project not only addresses the issue of sanitation but also showcases the benefits of public-private partnerships. The governor stressed the importance of public spaces providing access to facilities such as toilets and bathrooms to reduce the pressure on individuals resorting to public defecation. By promoting a collective solution to societal challenges, Sanwo-Olu aims to change the narrative around sanitation and create a more sustainable future for Lagos. Former Australian Prime Minister's praise for India's progress in addressing sanitation issues served as a benchmark for Nigeria. Sanwo-Olu expressed his commitment to following India's lead, highlighting the need for government leadership in driving initiatives that benefit the community. He emphasized the importance of demonstrating leadership through action, particularly in implementing large-scale water infrastructure projects. Governor Sanwo-Olu's approach involves engaging the private sector through advocacy and showcasing the mutual benefits of collaboration. By transparently communicating the objectives and outcomes of projects, the government aims to build trust and partnership with private organizations. Sanwo-Olu stressed that achieving the SDGs requires a collective effort involving government, civil society, and the private sector. In conclusion, Governor Sanwo-Olu is determined to lead Lagos State towards a sustainable future by leveraging partnerships, innovative financing, and community engagement. His vision for a prosperous and inclusive Lagos involves transformative projects that address key challenges such as sanitation while laying the foundation for long-term development and growth.