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Tag: Adesuwa Ladoja

  • FDI: Invest in Lagos 3.0 to attract N4tr

    FDI: Invest in Lagos 3.0 to attract N4tr

    The Lagos State Government is set to host the third edition of its flagship investment forum, ‘Invest in Lagos 3.0’, with the target to attract both local and foreign direct investment worth N4trillion. The summit is scheduled to be held from Monday, June 08 to Tuesday, June 09, 2026, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos state, in partnership with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC).

    The summit, which will attract experts and business leaders from the fifty-six Commonwealth nations, is conceived to position Lagos as Africa’s leading sub-national hub for capital flows, trade integration, financial innovation, and infrastructure development.

    Speaking during a press conference held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Eko Hotel & Suites, the Co-Chair, Local Organising Committee (LOC), Invest Lagos Summit 3.0 & Honourable Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Bada Ambrose-Medebem declared that outcomes from Invest in Lagos Summit 3.0 will build on and surpass the achievements of the previous editions with greater depth, stronger global engagement, and clearer implementation pathways”.

    Ambrose-Medebem explained the high-level forum, themed “Lagos: The Business Gateway to Africa -Where Innovation Meets Capital” is expected to feature investment opportunities across key priority sectors including infrastructure, industrialisation, the digital economy, agriculture, energy transition, logistics, financial services, real estate, and SME development.

    “Lagos sits at the centre of the African economic story. With a population in excess of 23 million people, a GDP that ranks among the largest city economies on the continent, expanding infrastructure, a vibrant innovation ecosystem, a growing industrial base, and one of the busiest seaports in Africa, Lagos remains uniquely positioned as the preferred destination for investment, trade, manufacturing, finance, technology, and enterprise development”, she said.

    In his remarks at the conference, the Co-Chair of the Local Organising Committee & Deputy Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Sam Egube, disclosed that more than twenty-nine global speakers from across the different countries of the world and industries have confirmed attendance

    “This summit will move conversation into measurable outcomes. In fact, the summit will spotlight key sectors including technology, infrastructure, healthcare, transportation, energy, environment, and the creative economy “, he added.

    With this Summit, Lagos is determined to translate investment conversations into deployable channels and maintain commitment to the Lagos State Development Plan 2052 as well as the T.H.E.M.E.S+ policy framework of the current administration designed to stimulate socio-economic development in the state.

    It is expected that the 500 to 600 high-level delegates comprising innovators, global institutions, sovereign wealth funds, development finance institutions, multilateral institutions, structured finance specialists, trade networks across the Commonwealth, and senior public officials confirmed for attendance will share perspectives that will ease movement of conversations into measurable outcomes.

    Among the key guests already confirmed for the summit are the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Governor, Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat; Hon. Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; the Chair, Commonwealth Enterprise & Investment Council (CWEIC), Lord Marland; The Secretary-General, Commonwealth, Hon. Shirley Botchwey; the Co-Chair, Lagos Finance & Investment Council (LFIC) Mr. Aig Imoukhouede; Chief Growth & AI Officer, Middle East & Africa, Microsoft, Tomiwa Williams; MD/CEO, First Bank of Nigeria, Olusegun Alebiosu; MD/CEO, Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman; MD/CEO, Lagos Free Zone, Adesuwa Ladoja; Chairman, Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA), Segun Ogunsanya; Vice President, Adani Group, Shahzad Athar and CEO, Benoy, Tom Cartledge.

    As a summit designed to drive private sector investment, stimulate enterprise growth, expand value chains, strengthen the fiscal sustainability of Lagos, Invest in Lagos 3.0 is more than a mechanism for economic growth acceleration, but also a platform for showcasing the investment sustainability of Lagos and a catalyst for structured engagement with capital providers.

  • Lagos Free Zone, CEVA Logistics Announce Strategic Joint Venture to Enhance Integrated Logistics in West Africa

    Lagos Free Zone, CEVA Logistics Announce Strategic Joint Venture to Enhance Integrated Logistics in West Africa

    In line with their shared vision to drive growth and innovation in West Africa, Lagos Free Zone (LFZ) and CEVA Logistics have announced the signing of a Joint Venture (JV) agreement. This partnership marks a significant milestone in advancing integrated logistics solutions in Nigeria and the broader West Africa region.

    The agreement, which has been approved by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) of Nigeria, was formally signed recently. CEVA Logistics will hold a majority stake in the newly established joint venture.

    This collaboration brings together CEVA Logistics’ extensive global network and expertise with Lagos Free Zone’s strategic location and infrastructure. The JV establishes the first global logistics leader-operated warehouse within Lagos Free Zone, home to Nigeria’s Lekki Deep Sea Port. This facility positions importers to seamlessly access West African markets, particularly multinational manufacturers serving the region.

    Speaking on the strategic joint venture, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Lagos Free Zone, Adesuwa Ladoja said, “This partnership with CEVA Logistics underscores our commitment to creating a one-stop solution for manufacturing and trade businesses in Nigeria. By integrating Lekki Port, reliable industrial infrastructure, and efficient logistics solutions, we are building a logistics hub for West Africa. Collaborating with CEVA, a global leader in logistics, strengthens our ability to deliver on this vision.”

    Ladoja noted that Lekki Port, with its modern infrastructure, serves as a critical entry point for goods entering West Africa. Importers leveraging the free zone warehouse facilities at Lekki Port will benefit from duty-free exports to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) markets, creating a streamlined and cost-effective logistics solution.

    She added that the advantage is further reinforced by the Lagos Free Zone Green Channel — a Nigeria Customs Service–approved logistics corridor launched in February 2026 that enables cargo to move directly between Lekki Port and Lagos Free Zone in hours rather than days, significantly reducing demurrage costs and giving manufacturers the supply chain predictability needed to compete in time-sensitive regional markets.

    In his remarks, the Vice President, Air and Ocean Product at CEVA IMEA, Jean-Baptiste Rambaud, stated, “We are proud to partner with Lagos Free Zone in this strategic venture. Our targeted investments in Nigeria reflect our commitment to providing uninterrupted logistics services to our global clients exporting to West Africa, including ECOWAS. This free zone warehouse is the final piece in creating a seamless logistics journey for goods and products from around the world to West Africa.”

    Rambaud disclosed that the partnership will mark a new phase of enhanced logistics solutions, leading to a seamless journey for global trade in West Africa, a region with its dynamic and youthful population that represents a key growth market for global manufacturers, especially in the FMCG sector. The logistics journey to this region requires a deep understanding of trade lanes, local port operations, and customs procedures. By combining CEVA Logistics’ global capabilities with Lagos Free Zone’s integrated infrastructure, the JV will enable businesses to focus on their core operations while ensuring a seamless journey for goods from global origins to West African destinations.

  • United for Kids Foundation Showcases Cultural Learning and Youth Talent at 2025 Pre-High School Camp

    United for Kids Foundation Showcases Cultural Learning and Youth Talent at 2025 Pre-High School Camp

    … Ojodu Group of Schools Triumphs again at Summer Camp Grand Finale

    The United for Kids Foundation (UKF), a non-governmental organisation committed to empowering underserved children in Nigeria, recently concluded its highly anticipated 2025 Pre-High School Summer Camp, a week-long enrichment programme for public primary school leavers across Lagos State.

    The grand finale of the Summer Camp, which took place on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at Tunwase High School, Ikeja, was a vibrant celebration of learning, teamwork, and cultural immersion.

    This year’s camp, themed ‘Exploring Asia’, brought together over 100 primary school pupils leavers from 4 public schools to engage in a series of exciting activities designed to boost their confidence and prepare them for secondary school.

    At the grand finale, student delivered outstanding presentations that reflected the cultures of various Asian nations, alongside creative showcases in dance, music, art and craft, storytelling, and public speaking.

    At the close of the keenly contested finale, Ojodu Group of Schools, representing China, emerged winner, while Adebule Primary School placed second, while showcasing India. Victoria Island Group of Schools came third with their vibrant depiction of Singapore, and Archbishop Taylor/Kuramo Primary Schools which represented Turkey, were in fourth place.

    The judging panel, comprising Francis Yankuba, Azeezah Ladoja, and Ibukun Oyedokun, went beyond scoring the presentations.  They also offered insightful feedback and encouragement that inspired the young participants.

    While reflecting on the significance of the initiative and the broader mission of the foundation, Vice Chairman, United for Kids Foundation, Adesuwa Ladoja, stated that the summer camp was organised with a view to fostering academic preparedness, and personal growth, while also encouraging the development of social skills and the formation of friendships with peers from other schools.

    “United for Kids Foundation was established over two decades ago, born from a heartfelt visit to an orphanage during the holidays. That moment transformed into a lifelong commitment to bridging the gap for children from low-income families. We focus on education, health, and welfare —with the belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive, no matter their background.

    ‘Through our initiatives, from free libraries and monthly hospital/orphanage visits to our Mummy and Me financial empowerment programme, we are healing Nigeria ‘one child, one heart, and one smile at a time’. The summer camp is particularly close to our hearts. It equips children transitioning to secondary school with the tools, mindset, and self-belief they need to succeed,” Ladoja said.

    The 2025 Summer Camp is yet another bold statement of UKF’s dedication to creating real, sustainable impact. With every book read, every skill taught, and every smile restored, UKF continues to lead the charge in creating equal opportunities for children, regardless of their socio-economic status.

  • Guala Closures Announces Inauguration of New Plant in Nigeria

    Guala Closures Announces Inauguration of New Plant in Nigeria

    …strengthening Africa’s strategic importance for long-term growth

    Guala Closures, a world leader in the production of closures for the spirits, wine, water, beer, non-alcoholic beverage, and edible oil markets, inaugurated yesterday its new greenfield manufacturing facility in West Africa, strategically located in the Lagos Free Zone.

    The inauguration ceremony was attended by Ugo Boni, Consul General of Italy in Lagos, Adesuwa Ladoja, CEO of Lagos Free Zone, Andrea Lodetti, CEO of Guala Closures, and other executives of the Group. This expansion represents a key milestone in the company’s growth strategy, strengthening its commitment to the African market and enhancing its presence in one of the continent’s most dynamic economies.

    The Nigerian plant will serve West African markets and can supply anti-counterfeiting safety closures for spirits bottles, including innovative features developed precisely for this specific market. The construction of the plant, which spans nearly 5,000 square meters, was completed in a record time of just 22 weeks and reached operational start-up by the end of 2024. The facility will be further developed in the next years and is expected to create significant employment opportunities for the local community.  

    Building on its successful operations in Kenya and South Africa, recently strengthened with the acquisition of the facility owned by Astir Vitogiannis in Johannesburg, Guala Closures is investing in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and one of its fastest-growing markets.

    With a population exceeding 235 million and a median age of just 18, Nigeria offers vast potential for industrial and economic development. The country’s growing spirits and other beverages markets, fueled by an expanding middle class with increasing disposable income and a demand for premium products, creates significant opportunities for Guala Closures. The new facility will allow to better serve local businesses and global brands with innovative and high-quality closure solutions tailored to regional needs.

    The opening of the Lagos facility reinforces Guala Closures’ long-term vision for growth and leadership in Africa, further positioning the company as a key partner in the region’s industrial and economic evolution.

    “This investment underscores our commitment to advancing in the African market and creating value for our partners,” said Andrea Lodetti, CEO of Guala Closures. “Indeed, our global presence and in-depth knowledge of local markets allow us to stay close to our global customers, addressing their specific needs in every region of the world with customized solutions and outstanding service. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and maintaining a strong focus on product quality and safety, we aim to enhance brand identity while offering robust protection against counterfeiting – an increasingly critical issue in the industry.”

    With this expansion, Guala Closures continues its strategy of staying close to its customers, a philosophy reflected in its network of 37 production plants and 7 research and development centers worldwide.

    Mrs. Adesuwa Ladoja, the Managing Director and CEO of Lagos Free Zone, added: “We are delighted that Guala Closures, one of our most prestigious international clients, has decided to expand their operations in Nigeria through our ready-to-lease Standard Industrial Facility at the LFZ. We are committed to supporting the next phase of growth in Nigeria and West Africa for Guala Closures.”

  • Nigeria Strengthens Trade and Investment Ties with the United Kingdom (UK) During the Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit

    Nigeria Strengthens Trade and Investment Ties with the United Kingdom (UK) During the Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit

    …Dr. Oduwole’s engagements in London aligned with Nigeria’s four key strategic pillars: investment mobilisation, trade revenue growth, economic diversification, and strategic communications

     Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, successfully concluded a series of high-level engagements in London, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to fostering trade and investment partnerships with the UK. The visit, anchored around the Commonwealth Trade and Investment Summit held on 7-8 April, provided a vital platform to showcase Nigeria’s strategic economic priorities and attract investment into key sectors.

    During her visit, Dr. Oduwole participated in two exclusive events hosted by Invest Africa, engaging with top-tier stakeholders, business leaders, and investors. These engagements underscored Nigeria’s dedication to economic diversification, investment mobilisation, and strengthening the London-Lagos investment corridor.

    On 8 April, the Minister delivered a keynote address at an Invest Africa-hosted roundtable, where she outlined Nigeria’s investment potential and strategic trade policies. The discussion focused on boosting non-oil sectors, promoting ease of doing business, and enhancing UK-Nigeria commercial ties. Senior executives from the UK business and investor community engaged directly with the Minister, fostering dialogue on new investment opportunities and partnerships that will contribute to Nigeria’s long-term development goals.

    Dr. Oduwole stated: “Nigeria is open for business, and we are committed to creating an environment that fosters investment, innovation, and economic growth. Our engagements in London demonstrate our dedication to strengthening trade ties, supporting local and foreign investors, and ensuring that Nigeria remains a prime investment destination. The opportunities in Nigeria, particularly in non-oil sectors, are immense, and we invite investors to be part of this journey towards sustainable development.”

    Additionally, the Minister participated in an exclusive event co-hosted by Invest Africa in partnership with Lagos Free Zone (LFZ). This strategic engagement positioned LFZ as a premier investment hub within Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, showcasing its potential to attract global investors and support the country’s industrialisation agenda. The event featured a presentation by Lagos Free Zone MD & CEO, Adesuwa Ladoja, and a dynamic panel discussion exploring Nigeria’s industrial landscape and how LFZ can support UK businesses keen on exploring pathways for sustainable growth in Nigeria.

    Karen Taylor, Chair of Invest Africa, commented: “Invest Africa is proud to facilitate meaningful engagement between Nigerian leaders and the UK business community. The Minister’s participation in our events underscores Nigeria’s strategic importance as a trade and investment partner. We look forward to continuing to support initiatives that drive economic collaboration and unlock new business opportunities.”

    Adesuwa Ladoja, MD & CEO of Lagos Free Zone, remarked: “The Lagos Free Zone represents a game-changer for Nigeria’s manufacturing and industrial sectors, offering world-class infrastructure and seamless business operations. This event provided a crucial platform to showcase how strategic investments in LFZ can unlock deeper penetration into the Nigerian market for UK businesses and drive Nigeria’s industrialisation. We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to welcoming global investors.”

    Dr. Oduwole’s engagements in London aligned with Nigeria’s four key strategic pillars: investment mobilisation, trade revenue growth, economic diversification, and strategic communications. Through these discussions, the Minister reinforced Nigeria’s proactive approach to fostering international trade relations, unlocking new business opportunities, and strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and the UK.

    As Nigeria continues its journey toward sustainable economic transformation, the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment remains committed to advancing strategic partnerships and positioning Nigeria as a top-tier investment destination on the global stage. b

  • Nigeria: International Finance Corporation (IFC) Invests in Lagos Free Zone to Support Industrial Growth and Economic Diversification

    Nigeria: International Finance Corporation (IFC) Invests in Lagos Free Zone to Support Industrial Growth and Economic Diversification

    …The funds will support the first phase of the 860-hectare Lagos Free Zone, focusing on land development, industrial facilities, and logistics infrastructure

    IFC has announced an equity investment of up to $50 million in Lagos Free Zone Company to support the development and expansion of Nigeria’s first deepsea port-based, private special economic zone, the Lagos Free Zone. This investment is designed to address critical infrastructure gaps, attract local and global businesses, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.

    The funds will support the first phase of the 860-hectare Lagos Free Zone, focusing on land development, industrial facilities, and logistics infrastructure. Owned by Singapore-based Tolaram, a diversified multinational group with operations across Africa, Asia, and Europe, the Lagos Free Zone is strategically integrated with the Lekki Deep Sea Port and will provide an integrated industrial ecosystem for efficient import and export operations, serving as a gateway for Nigeria’s integration into global value chains.

    With Nigeria’s economy projected to grow by 3.7% by 2026, investments in infrastructure are vital to ensuring sustainable growth. When fully occupied, Lagos Free Zone is expected to create approximately 30,000 direct, indirect, and induced jobs, while contributing significantly to Nigeria’s GDP upon completion.

    “This investment reflects IFC’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and sustainable development in Nigeria. Lagos Free Zone is poised to become a transformative hub for industrial activity, driving job creation and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in global markets. We are proud to partner with Lagos Free Zone  in building the infrastructure necessary to attract global and local businesses, enabling Nigeria to achieve its full economic potential.” said, Dahlia Khalifa, IFC Regional Director, Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa.

    The investment in Lagos Free Zone also reflects IFC’s commitment to sustainable development, with a focus on green infrastructure. Approximately 15% of the investment is earmarked for climate-related initiatives, including Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE)-certified buildings and climate-resilient infrastructure.

    “IFC’s support represents a significant and positive recognition of our vision to establish  Lagos Free Zone as a world-class industrial hub. This investment allows us to scale up the existing infrastructure to attract more foreign and local tenants while promoting sustainability and creating economic opportunities for Nigeria. Lagos Free Zone, integrated with Lekki Deep Sea Port, facilitates ease of doing business in Nigeria and supports the Federal Government of Nigeria’s drive for economic diversification and infrastructure development. We look forward to driving growth and delivering lasting impact through this transformative collaboration with the IFC”, added, Adesuwa Ladoja, MD/CEO at Lagos Free Zone Company.

    Lagos Free Zone is already home to several manufacturing brands like Kellogg’s, Dano Milk, Colgate, BASF, ADM, and Tata International. 

    This investment aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms and IFC’s strategic frameworks, including the World Bank Group’s Nigeria Country Partnership Framework (2021–2025) and its 2015 Climate Action Plan, both of which prioritize economic diversification, the development of competitive clusters, and investments in climate-resilient infrastructure.

    By addressing infrastructure bottlenecks and enhancing connectivity, IFC’s investment in Lagos Free Zone will unlock new opportunities for businesses and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a regional economic leader.

  • United for Kids Foundation Organizes 2024 Pre-High School Summer Camp for Kids

    United for Kids Foundation Organizes 2024 Pre-High School Summer Camp for Kids

    …Ojodu Group of Schools Triumphs in Grand Finale

    United for Kids Foundation, a non-governmental organization committed to empowering underserved Nigerian children, recently organized its 2024 Summer Camp program for over 100 primary school leavers from Ten primary schools in Lagos State.

    The program, held over three days, concluded with a grand finale on Thursday, July 25th, 2024. The exciting event showcased various activities, including arts and crafts, dance competitions, debates, and presentations celebrating Nigeria’s heroes pasts. At the end of the event, Ojodu Group of Schools took the first position, while Adebule Primary School, Archbishop Tailor Primary School/ Kuramo Primary School and Victoria Island group of schools came second, third, and fourth, respectively.

    Reflecting on the event, the Vice Chairman of the United for Kids Foundation, Adesuwa Ladoja, explained that the camp was part of efforts to equip primary school leavers with social skills, decision-making abilities, and other essential skills needed to succeed in their higher education. During the event, the project coordinators, Oladunni Balogun and Eucharia Agu, expressed their excitement at seeing the participants become more confident and independent while building relationships with their peers.

    The judging panel, consisting of Ms Obarise Adesuwa and Mr Olutayo Irantiola, played a crucial role in evaluating the performances and determining the winners. Their expertise and dedication ensured a fair and enriching experience for all participants.

    The United for Kids Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering young lives by providing impactful and sustained interventions designed to educate, inspire, encourage, and unleash the potential in every child. The foundation believes that no child’s future should be truncated due to a lack of financial resources, and it strives to provide opportunities for all children to flourish.

    This year’s summer camp exemplifies the foundation’s mission to create a supportive environment where young minds can grow and thrive. The joy, confidence, and skills gained by the children during the camp will undoubtedly contribute to their future successes.

  • Lekki Port appoints Ladoja, Rathi as Directors

    Lekki Port appoints Ladoja, Rathi as Directors

    The Board of Lekki Port LFTZ Enterprise Limited (LPLEL) -the promoters of Lekki Deep Sea Port, has announced the appointments of Adesuwa Ladoja and Dineshi Rathi as Executive Director and Non-Executive Director respectively, of the company with immediate effect. The Board approved the appointments during the meeting held on Wednesday, March 29, 2023.

    Before this elevation as Executive Director of the company, Ladoja had been with the company for over a decade. She previously served as the Legal Counsel and later as Chief Relationship Officer, overseeing the critical task of managing the company’s relationship with all its key stakeholders.

    Ladoja is a lawyer, notary public, qualified chartered accountant, tax consultant & company secretary. She has worked previously in the leading law firm of Ajumogobia & Okeke and KPMG Professional Services (formerly Andersen), and she has had a niche practice in infrastructure development, regulation and infrastructure funding  gap in Nigeria.  She was educated at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria (LL.B Hons) and King’s College, University of London (LLM International Business Law). She joined Lekki Port in 2012 where she has worked from then to date as a member of the multi-jurisdiction team that brought the Lekki Deep Sea Port project to reality. She is a founding trustee of United for Kids Foundation. She will act as one of the representatives of the majority shareholder, China Habour Engineering Company on the board of directors.

    Dinesh Rathi, who is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Lagos Free Zone Company, will represent the interest of Tolaram on the board. Dinesh is a member of the leadership team at Tolaram, a Singapore-headquartered conglomerate with major interests in Africa. He is leading the infrastructure vertical in Nigeria which involves the development and operations of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ). He has worked in Nigeria for 18 years in a variety of positions with a focus on finance, strategy, mergers and acquisitions, manufacturing, and projects. Dinesh formerly held positions at Unilever and the Corporate Banking division of ICICI Bank. He is a Chartered Accountant by qualification and has also completed his Management Education Program at the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad. Dinesh is passionate about leveraging the core principles of sustainability in the development and operations of the SEZ in Nigeria and creating a significant socio-economic impact.

    The duo of Adesuwa Ladoja & Dinesh Rathi are expected to bring their rich wealth of experience and knowledge to the board as Lekki Port prepares to commence commercial operations.