Sweden has announced the opening of its largest innovation hub in Africa, situated in Lagos State, Nigeria, signaling a major stride in bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
The announcement was made on Monday during a meeting between Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, and Her Royal Highness, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The session was part of the Princess’s ongoing three-day official visit to Nigeria aimed at deepening diplomatic and economic ties.
According to a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President), both delegations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening relations through trade, sustainable development, gender equality, and cultural exchange.
Speaking at the meeting, Sweden’s Minister for Infrastructure and Housing, Andreas Carlson, emphasized that the country sees immense potential in Nigeria—particularly in innovation and technology.
“This will shape a better future for tomorrow for our people,” Carlson said, adding that Sweden’s physical trade office in Lagos would officially open on Tuesday. “We have opened five innovation hubs across Africa, and the largest of them is here in Nigeria. There are many more opportunities—in health, agriculture, and education—that we are eager to explore.”
Vice President Shettima expressed optimism about the expanding partnership, describing it as “anchored in innovation, powered by people, and guided by our shared determination to uplift communities and secure prosperity for generations to come.”
He highlighted opportunities for collaboration in renewable energy, precision agriculture, healthcare innovation, and gender inclusion—areas where Sweden has demonstrated global leadership.
Shettima also recalled his visit to Stockholm in October 2024, where a key outcome was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Nigeria and Ericsson to boost 5G innovation in the country.
“Beyond the digital frontier, Swedish enterprises continue to invest in our human capital and sustainable development,” he noted, applauding Swedish edtech firm, SchoolTry, for its efforts in transforming educational outcomes in Nigeria.
Crown Princess Victoria described the growing partnership as timely and essential, noting Sweden’s strong interest in Nigeria’s development.
“It’s wonderful to see the opportunities here. This is especially important in the times we live in now,” she said. “Our countries are partners in many sectors, and the opening of this trade office is a step forward for both our nations.”
The visit and the new innovation hub mark a new chapter in the 65-year-old relationship between Nigeria and Sweden, setting the stage for greater institutional collaboration, private sector engagement, and cross-cultural dialogue.
