Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, Director-General, Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), has announced Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s acceptance to endow a foreign policy school at the institute.
He made the disclosure on Tuesday during the first NIIA Distinguished Lecture Series in 2025.
The lecture, with the theme ‘Lagos and Nigeria 2030: Projections of a World Power,’ brought together diplomats, policymakers, and scholars to discuss Nigeria’s global prospects.
Osaghae stressed the importance of protecting Nigeria’s positive image internationally, particularly through the extraordinary achievements of Nigerians.
“What people think of us as Nigerians is very important. We must live up to global expectations of a highly regarded nation,” he said.
He described Lagos as Africa’s commercial capital and a hub for entrepreneurship, noting its leadership in finance and its growing role as a global powerhouse.
Osaghae praised Sanwo-Olu’s contributions, fairness, and dedication, saying Lagos ranks high among global powers with its population exceeding 22 million.
“Lagos is unparalleled in Africa. It is the hub of civilisation and the heartbeat of Nigeria’s soft power,” he added.
According to him, although five cities worldwide bear the name Lagos, Nigeria’s ‘Eko’ stands out for development, population, and global potential.
Delivering his lecture, Sanwo-Olu said Nigeria could accelerate growth and development by leveraging Lagos as the pivotal driver of national potential.
He described the lecture’s theme as inspiring, stressing the interconnection between Lagos and Nigeria.
Sanwo-Olu defined global power as multidimensional, combining economic strength, diplomatic influence, resources, demography, and cultural clout.
“We must understand that the assessment of world power is not static but constantly evolving,” he said.
He noted Nigeria’s world power aspirations date back to independence, achieved through a non-violent struggle against colonial rule.
Sanwo-Olu said Nigeria is already a cultural force globally, with influence in literature, music, film, and fashion.
He added that in diplomacy and defence, Nigeria remains a continental and global voice.
“Nigeria’s ability to convert raw potential into true world power and global influence will depend largely on Lagos,” Sanwo-Olu stressed.
“I picture 2030 as a trillion-dollar national economy, overcoming poverty and crime, leading with art, culture, technology, and sports — powered by Lagos,” he added.
