The Lagos State Government has launched Operation Quadrant Ignite (OQI), a major initiative to turn the Lekki Economic Zone (LEZ) into Africa’s leading hub for manufacturing, trade, and investment. Mrs. Folashade Ambrose, the State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, announced the plan on Tuesday during the Design and Innovation Exhibition organized by Design Week Lagos in Victoria Island.
The initiative is a key part of Lagos State’s strategy to boost industrialization. According to Commissioner Ambrose, OQI will repurpose underused assets, optimize land use, and create a strong industrial ecosystem that encourages innovation, efficiency, and global competitiveness. “This is not just about developing land; it’s about building a thriving industrial hub that will make Lagos a global leader in manufacturing and trade,” she said.
Lekki has long been seen as the industrial heart of Lagos, thanks to its strategic location, abundant resources, and strong infrastructure. With OQI, this vision is now becoming a reality. The initiative includes a Catalytic Fund to provide targeted financing for high-growth industrial projects. The fund will attract investments from Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), private equity firms, and venture capitalists, ensuring rapid industrial growth while supporting local businesses. “This fund will act as a catalyst, helping businesses grow quickly and ensuring no one is left behind,” Ambrose added.
A key part of OQI is the use of the Lekki Deep Sea Port, which will position Lagos as a hub for export-driven manufacturing. The plan aims to combine efficient logistics, world-class port facilities, and smooth trade operations to boost the state’s industrial output. Ambrose stressed that infrastructure is critical to the initiative’s success. “To compete globally, Lagos-based industries need world-class roads, reliable energy, and strong digital connectivity,” she explained.
Ambrose described OQI as more than just a policy—it’s a commitment to sustainable industrial growth and economic transformation. “Under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, we are not just dreaming of a more prosperous Lagos; we are making it happen,” she said. The industrial transformation of Lagos is already underway, and the opportunities are vast. Ambrose called on stakeholders, investors, and partners to join the state in its mission to make Lagos the center of Africa’s industrial growth.
Adeniyi Akinlusi, Managing Director of Lekki Worldwide Investments Limited, highlighted the Lekki Economic Zone’s role as a hub for leading businesses and manufacturers driving Nigeria’s industrialization. “The Lekki Economic Zone has huge potential to make Lagos a leader in Africa’s industrial revolution,” Akinlusi said. Titi Ogunfere, Founder of Design Week Lagos, called the exhibition a bold statement about the future of Nigeria’s industrial and manufacturing sectors. She stressed the importance of design, innovation, and policy in driving economic progress. “To turn vision into reality, we need the right policies, infrastructure, and business environments to help designers, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs grow—not just for local markets but for export,” Ogunfere said.
The event also featured a panel discussion with industry leaders, including Segun Ajayi-Kadiri, Director General of the Manufacturing Association of Nigeria (MAN); Yomi Ogunmola, Managing Director of Alaro City; and Adenike Ogunlesi, Founder of Ruff ‘N’ Tumble. Panelists emphasized the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive industrial growth and build a strong export economy.
With Operation Quadrant Ignite, Lagos is taking a major step toward becoming a global industrial powerhouse.