Lagos, California forge partnership on climate, innovation

The Lagos State Government has formalised a sister-state relationship with the California State Assembly in the United States through Assembly Concurrent Resolution 129 (ACR 129), marking a new phase in subnational diplomacy between both regions.

The resolution, sponsored by Assembly member Matt Haney, was unveiled recently at the California/Africa Climate and Economic Forum 2026, where government officials, business leaders and members of the Nigerian diaspora gathered to strengthen economic and climate cooperation.

Receiving the resolution on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Office of Diaspora Affairs, Jermaine Sanwo-Olu, described the agreement as a framework for practical collaboration.

“This is more than a ceremonial agreement; it is a structured framework for action across climate resilience, transportation, infrastructure, innovation, and economic development. Both regions have much to gain, and we intend to move quickly,” he said.

He noted that the partnership aligns with the state’s THEMES+ Agenda, aimed at strengthening Lagos’ global engagement and opening new channels for sustainable growth, trade and innovation.

According to him, the agreement positions Lagos as a globally connected city while reinforcing Nigeria’s expanding role in international cooperation, particularly through its diaspora network, which is expected to drive investment, knowledge exchange and long-term collaboration.

Jermaine also acknowledged the role of Toks Omishakin in advancing the partnership.

Omishakin, speaking on the significance of the agreement, said it would promote cooperation in key sectors.

“The Lagos–California Sister-State Resolution builds on the strong partnership Governor Gavin Newsom has forged between California and Nigeria and reflects our shared commitment to practical, people-centred progress.

“Through deepening ties with Lagos and the leadership of Assemblymember Haney, we are establishing new opportunities to advance clean mobility, climate innovation, economic growth and cultural exchange between two regions defined by creativity and ambition,” he said.

The partnership is expected to address shared challenges such as climate change, urbanisation and economic transformation, while serving as a model for cross-continental cooperation anchored on mutual benefit and measurable outcomes.