Sweden has deepened its commitment to Africa’s innovation ecosystem with the launch of its largest innovation hub on the continent—right in the heart of Lagos, Nigeria. The initiative signals a new chapter in bilateral cooperation between Sweden and Nigeria, built on mutual interests in technology, sustainable development, trade, and education.
The announcement was made during a high-level meeting in Abuja on Monday, as Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima welcomed Her Royal Highness, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, who is on a three-day diplomatic visit to Nigeria. The delegation also included Sweden’s Minister for Infrastructure and Housing, Andreas Carlson, and other senior officials.
Crown Princess Victoria’s visit aims to enhance diplomatic, economic, and cultural collaboration between the two countries. In her remarks, she described Nigeria and Sweden as long-time partners with shared values. “It’s wonderful to see the opportunities that are here,” she said. “We believe now, more than ever, is the right time to strengthen our collaboration.”
Innovation and Opportunity at the Core
Sweden’s newly announced innovation hub in Lagos is the fifth in Africa, but notably the largest yet—underscoring the Nordic nation’s strategic interest in Nigeria’s fast-growing tech and startup landscape. The hub is expected to serve as a launchpad for tech-based collaborations, skills development, and startup incubation.
Minister Carlson noted that Sweden’s interest in Nigeria is driven by the country’s innovation potential. “We see real opportunities in technology, infrastructure, and sectors like healthcare and agriculture,” he said. “This innovation hub is a reflection of our vision for a shared future shaped by knowledge, enterprise, and inclusion.”
He also confirmed that Sweden’s physical trade office in Nigeria will officially open on Tuesday. The office is intended to support Swedish businesses exploring opportunities in Nigeria and facilitate smoother trade relationships.
Nigeria Welcomes Strategic Collaboration
Vice President Shettima warmly welcomed Sweden’s expanding footprint in Nigeria, describing the move as a catalyst for deeper engagement across critical sectors. He emphasized Nigeria’s readiness to partner with Sweden on initiatives rooted in innovation and inclusivity.
“Our partnership is anchored in innovation, powered by our people, and guided by a shared determination to improve lives and ensure prosperity,” Shettima said. He highlighted specific areas of mutual interest such as renewable energy, precision agriculture, healthcare innovation, and gender inclusion.
Shettima also recalled his visit to Stockholm in October 2023, where he represented President Tinubu and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ericsson to support the rollout of 5G infrastructure across Nigeria—a milestone in the digital evolution of the country.
The Vice President further applauded Swedish companies like SchoolTry, a digital learning platform currently transforming school systems in Nigeria, as proof of the value that Swedish innovation brings to the local economy.
As both countries look to the future, the message is clear: collaboration between Sweden and Nigeria is no longer just diplomatic—it’s entrepreneurial, future-facing, and anchored in real-world impact.
