Lagos gets approval for Lekki-Epe International airport

The Lagos Economic Summit, known as Ehingbeti, has once again showcased a collaborative effort between the government and multi-stakeholder groups to chart pathways to socio-economic growth for the state through a long-term approach. This year's summit was particularly significant as it witnessed the presentation of the official letter of approval for the Lekki-Epe International Airport by Nigeria's Aviation Minister. The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated, considering the pivotal role that Ehingbeti has played in shaping Lagos' developmental trajectory over the past two decades. Many of the outcomes seen today are a result of initiatives that were kickstarted during the early years of Ehingbeti. The success of projects like the deep-sea port, which is set to be commissioned by the end of the year with triple the capacity of the Apapa port, is a testament to the importance of long-term planning and collaboration between public and private entities. Olayemi Cardoso, the founding chairman of Ehingbeti, highlighted the need for continued monitoring and evaluation of projects to ensure they stay on track and deliver the desired outcomes. He emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency in reporting back on progress made, citing that out of over 200 initiatives, Ehingbeti has successfully implemented 95% of them. Such rigorous evaluation and feedback mechanisms are essential for building trust and credibility among stakeholders and attracting private sector investment. The success of Ehingbeti in engaging various stakeholders, including international partners and donors, has created a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for the state's socio-economic development. By involving the private sector in the planning process and giving them a voice in decision-making, Ehingbeti has instilled confidence in investors and paved the way for sustainable growth in Lagos. The active participation of forward-thinking youths in the summit is also a positive sign for the future of the state. Engaging with young entrepreneurs and discussing their challenges and opportunities not only empowers them but also ensures that the government's development plans are inclusive and responsive to the needs of the next generation. As unemployment rates remain a pressing issue, the focus on creating opportunities for youth through strategic investments and partnerships is crucial for driving socio-economic growth. The governor's initiative to engage with youth and encourage their participation in shaping the state's future is commendable and sets a positive example for other stakeholders to follow. The momentum generated by Ehingbeti over the years is evident in the increasing attendance at the summit, with this year's event drawing over 20,000 participants from 10 different countries. The growth in interest and participation reflects a growing confidence in Lagos as a hub for investment and innovation. The successful commissioning of major projects like the deep-sea port and the upcoming Lekki-Epe International Airport demonstrates Lagos' ability to deliver on ambitious infrastructure projects through effective collaboration and strategic planning. While such projects may take time to materialize, the perseverance and dedication shown by all stakeholders involved are key to transforming Lagos into a vibrant economic hub. Olayemi Cardoso's emphasis on the importance of partnership between public and private entities, as well as the need for meticulous planning and execution, serves as a guiding principle for sustainable development in Lagos. As the state continues to pursue its vision for growth and prosperity, the lessons learned from Ehingbeti will undoubtedly shape its future trajectory and inspire other regions to follow suit.