Sanwo-Olu commends Ecobank as experts champion local innovation at Design and Build Expo
Sanwo-Olu commends Ecobank as experts champion local innovation at Design and Build Expo
Nike Popoola
Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has commended Ecobank for creating a platform that unites professionals in architecture, construction, finance, and design to shape the future of Nigeria’s built environment.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Ecobank Design and Build Exhibition on Wednesday, at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos, the governor described the initiative as an incredible event that aligns with the state’s mission of building a modern, liveable, and sustainable city.
The exhibition, themed “How We Build, How We Live,” features exhibitors showcasing innovations in real estate, construction, sustainable materials, and design.
Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the CEO, Lagos State Film & Video Censors Board, Mrs ‘Bukola Agbaminoja, noted that the platform goes beyond visual displays, providing insights into environmentally friendly and resilient solutions for urban growth.
He commended Ecobank for recognizing young professionals, artisans, and small businesses, describing them as critical to transforming ideas into reality.
He urged financiers to view infrastructure and housing not as abstract concepts but as viable projects with long-term social and economic value.
Challenging architects, builders, and engineers, he encouraged innovation that minimizes environmental impact, embraces energy efficiency, and ensures inclusivity for women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
“Our future hinges on what we build today, how we build it, and for whom we build it,” he added.
Panelists at the event discussed “International vs Local: The Sourcing Questions for Interior Design.”
Founder/CEO of Lash Interiors, Aishat Lawal, highlighted the struggles of local manufacturers in accessing materials, saying foreign producers often enjoy easier access to local resources, leaving indigenous players at a disadvantage.
Managing Director of Jaza Energy Nigeria, Adeboye Fowora, who also noted challenges of local manufacturers, urged youths to actively participate in governance to influence decisions shaping the country’s future.
He emphasized the need for creativity and confidence in Nigerian culture to drive national development.
Similarly, Patrick Koshoni, CEO of PatrickWaheed Design Consultancy and Miliki, stressed that the creative industry holds huge potential for economic growth.
He called for leveraging Nigeria’s culture and heritage to implement world-class solutions, noting that “our future will do well because of the creative industry.”
