Sanwo-Olu Presents Lagos’ Urban Transformation Plan to Harvard Students

Nigerians React to Governor Sanwo-Olu’s Harvard Business School Appearance, Applaud Vision for Lagos

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s recent appearance at Harvard Business School has sparked an outpouring of admiration and national pride among Nigerians, as many hail his bold vision for Lagos and his ability to present it on a prestigious global platform.

The Governor was a guest speaker in Professor Hakeem Belo-Osagie’s course, “Understanding Africa: Business, Entrepreneurship, Political Economy and the Complexities of a Continent”, where he presented a lecture titled “Building the Future: Lagos State’s Infrastructure-Led Transformation.” During the session, Sanwo-Olu showcased Lagos State’s significant strides in transportation, housing, climate innovation, and industrial development, while also outlining plans to position the state as a continental economic powerhouse.

But it wasn’t just the lecture that impressed—it was the engaging and intellectual exchange with Harvard’s students that truly stood out. According to the Governor, the students asked “insightful and thought-provoking questions,” with topics ranging from sustainable revenue generation to infrastructure renewal and leadership accountability. This depth of curiosity, he noted, affirms a growing global interest in Africa’s urban transformation.

Back home, the reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Nigerians across social media platforms are commending the Governor’s efforts and taking pride in Lagos being represented at one of the world’s top academic institutions.

Instagram user @akinwaleolurebi commented:

“It’s glaring that Lagos State’s ambitious and transformational vision positions her to become ‘Africa’s Model City and Global Economic and Financial Hub’. Impressive!”

Another user, @oluwayemisiadekunlee, added a more elaborate praise:

“Your Excellency, thank you for sharing this inspiring update. It’s encouraging to see Lagos State represented on such a global platform, and your insights into infrastructure-led transformation are a testament to the bold steps being taken to shape the future of the city. The engagement with Harvard students highlights not just a growing global interest in Africa, but also the importance of visionary leadership in unlocking the continent’s potential. Lagos is indeed setting the pace.”

For many, this moment is symbolic of Nigeria’s potential to lead transformative development on the continent through infrastructure and smart urban policy. Governor Sanwo-Olu’s presentation and interaction at Harvard have elevated the narrative around Lagos’ development strategy, shining a spotlight on the megacity as a model for other African cities.

As conversations continue both online and offline, one thing is clear—Lagos is rising, and the world is taking notice.

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