LASG Deepens Strategic Partnerships to Accelerate SDGs Implementation

— Stakeholders Pledge Support at High-Level Breakfast Meeting

In a bold move to fast-track inclusive development, the Lagos State Government has strengthened its commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by hosting a high-level Breakfast Meeting with key stakeholders across sectors.

The event, themed “Accelerating SDGs Through Strategic Partnerships,” held at the Wheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi, was convened by the Office of Sustainable Development Goals and brought together a distinguished mix of diplomats, development partners, civil society actors, private sector leaders, and government officials.

In his keynote address, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, represented by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Tolani Sule, emphasized the vital role of partnerships in achieving the SDGs. He noted that the State has strategically aligned its development blueprint—THEMES+ Agenda—with the global goals, integrating social inclusion, gender equality, and youth empowerment as core policy pillars.

“Lagos is building a resilient and sustainable city where no one is left behind,” he said. “Our THEMES+ Agenda prioritizes the key elements needed to advance the SDGs—education, digital innovation, green economy, and transportation.”

Highlighting recent milestones, he mentioned the completion of the Blue Rail Line, progress on the Red Line, and the integration of technology into education. He called for greater involvement of all sectors in the SDGs, describing them as a shared mission rather than a government-only responsibility.

“The SDGs require synergy among academia, civil society, the private sector, and development agencies. We must mobilize blended finance, harness innovation, and empower grassroots change-makers to turn bold ideas into scalable impact,” he stated.

Also speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda. She acknowledged the nation’s progress in poverty reduction, gender equality, and education access, but highlighted the significant setbacks caused by global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and regional conflicts.

“These crises have disrupted our systems and strained national resources. If we must meet the SDGs by 2030, intensified collaboration and investment are non-negotiable,” she warned.

She further revealed that Nigeria will present its third Voluntary National Review (VNR) at the United Nations in New York this July, describing it as an opportunity to showcase localized strategies that are working.

Commending Lagos for its exemplary leadership, Orelope-Adefulire described the state as a model for subnational SDG implementation. “Lagos has become a benchmark for how subnational governments can drive SDG impact using data, innovation, and inclusive partnerships,” she said.

In her welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on SDGs, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, described the breakfast meeting as a platform for co-creation and impact-focused dialogue. She emphasized the importance of transitioning from conversation to action.

“The true measure of our progress is in how we shift from dialogue to delivery. We are co-creating programs that directly shape lives across the state,” she said. “Our office remains committed to serving as a convener, connector, and catalyst for sustainable development.”

Dr. Finnih acknowledged the unique development context of Lagos and stressed the need to adapt and scale the SDGs in line with local realities. She called for renewed collective commitment to translate policy into practical, life-changing interventions.

A key highlight of the meeting was the collective pledge by all stakeholders to support Lagos State’s efforts in accelerating SDG implementation and ensuring resilient outcomes for all.

Attendees included members of the Body of Permanent Secretaries, Director-Generals and General Managers of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Consular Generals, development partners, private sector leaders, academia, and philanthropists.

The meeting marks another major step by Lagos State in institutionalizing sustainable governance practices and creating inclusive partnerships that deliver long-term development impact.