#LagosEconomicSummit2021: Llewellyn-Jones on how to make Lagos more attractive to UK investors

The Deputy High Commissioner of the British High Commission in Lagos, Ben Llewellyn-Jones, emphasized the importance of British foreign direct investment in Lagos State during an interview with CNBC Africa at the 2021 Lagos State Economic Summit. Llewellyn-Jones highlighted the need to support Lagos' growth strategy, particularly focusing on both physical and tech infrastructure to create job opportunities for the local population. He expressed admiration for the speakers who discussed tech as an opportunity for growth and emphasized the significance of making foreign direct investment more appealing to investors. Llewellyn-Jones acknowledged the youth demographic in Nigeria and stressed the importance of providing practical education that equips young people with skills to become entrepreneurs. He emphasized the need for access to finance to support budding entrepreneurs in starting and expanding their businesses. Regarding Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala's recent appointment as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Llewellyn-Jones praised her qualifications and expressed optimism about her leadership. He highlighted her focus on e-commerce and empowering SMEs and women globally. Llewellyn-Jones commended Okonjo-Iweala's ideas on partnership and development, emphasizing her passion and determination to make a positive impact on the global stage. The interview shed light on the key strategies and collaborations needed to enhance Lagos' attractiveness to UK investors and underscored the significance of strong leadership in driving economic growth and fostering entrepreneurship in Nigeria and beyond.