Lagos, Netherlands partner to protect coastline, boost infrastructure

The Lagos State Government has strengthened its international cooperation efforts with a new partnership with the Kingdom of the Netherlands focused on coastal protection and infrastructure development.

The engagement was marked by the reception of a high-level Dutch delegation led by the Consul General in Lagos, Mr. Michael Deelen, as Lagos intensifies preparations for Invest Lagos 3.0, a major investment summit aimed at attracting global capital and technical partnerships.

As part of the visit, the state also received a Coastal Protection Pre-Feasibility Report presented by CDR International, a Dutch engineering consultancy specialising in coastal, river, and port infrastructure.

The report is expected to support Lagos in developing long-term, data-driven solutions to its coastal and environmental challenges.

In a statement obtained from Lagos State’s X handle on Tuesday, speaking during the engagement, the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, reaffirmed Lagos’ ambition to remain Africa’s leading investment destination.

“Lagos is not only Nigeria’s economic nerve centre; it is a dynamic, forward-looking marketplace of opportunities,” she said. “Through deliberate leadership and strategic engagement, we continue to open new frontiers for investment, innovation, and inclusive growth.”

She noted that Invest Lagos 3.0, scheduled for June 8–9, 2026 at Eko Hotel and Suites and organised in partnership with the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), will serve as a platform to connect global investors with opportunities across infrastructure, technology, and sustainability sectors.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush-Alebiosu, highlighted the importance of Lagos’ coastal and waterfront assets in driving economic expansion.

“Our waterfront infrastructure is a key driver of future growth. Strengthening collaboration with partners like the Netherlands will help unlock opportunities in tourism, real estate, and sustainable coastal development,” he noted.

He added that ongoing projects across Lagos’ waterways and coastal zones are already creating new investment pathways and improving urban resilience.

In his remarks, Deelen reaffirmed the Netherlands’ commitment to supporting Lagos State through technical expertise and financing solutions, particularly in climate resilience and infrastructure development.

“The Netherlands is proud to partner with Lagos State in advancing its developmental aspirations. “Through Invest International, we can provide flexible financing for high-impact projects, especially in coastal protection and sustainable infrastructure,” he said.

He added that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to addressing environmental challenges while promoting sustainable urban growth.

The collaboration marks another step in Lagos State’s broader strategy to attract foreign investment, strengthen international partnerships, and position itself as a leading hub for sustainable development and economic opportunity in Africa.