The Lagos State Economic Council: Continuity, Competence, and Why Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat Should Lead Nigeria’s Economic Capital
– by Opeyemi Eniola Lagos is not just Nigeria’s commercial hub. It is the country’s economic oxygen. It drives a disproportionate share of national output through trade, manufacturing, ports, financial
The Lagos State Economic Council represents a move towards continuous, coordinated, and data-driven economic planning for Nigeria's commercial hub. APC gubernatorial candidate Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat has advocated for this idea, emphasizing practical benefits such as reducing confusion around government charges, tackling unauthorized levies, and providing businesses with clearer cost expectations. This approach could enhance transparency and attract private capital to the state.
Lagos has experimented with similar models in the past, but Hamzat's proposed council aims to embed economic oversight into the regular work of government. The council would bring together state executives, local government leaders, and key stakeholders to review performance, track policies, and address sector-specific issues. By recognizing Lagos's diverse economic strengths, the council could help spread decision-making and ensure development priorities are responsive to local needs.
Dr. Hamzat's background as an engineer with a doctorate in process systems engineering and extensive experience in both the private and public sectors makes him well-suited for this role. He has demonstrated competence in systems, budgets, processes, data, agency coordination, and implementation. As a commissioner for Science and Technology, he drove digital reforms, while as Deputy Governor, he has worked on critical projects like rail, water, transport, and industrial policy.
His focus on continuity and delivery, rather than short-term noise, aligns with the needs of a high-stakes economic center.
Lagos's governance continuity since 1999 has been a strength, but sudden changes can disrupt policy execution. The state still faces significant challenges, including completing transport links, expanding water and sanitation, improving power reliability, addressing housing pressure, and building resilience against flooding. Rapid population growth and a large informal sector also pose challenges, with multiple taxation being a genuine grievance.
A well-structured Lagos State Economic Council could provide the necessary coordination, clear authority, and steady administrative work to tackle these issues effectively.
Written by urgent.news from This Day's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
