Lagos State has reaffirmed its readiness to deepen economic partnerships with Thailand, as business leaders and investors from both countries gathered at the Thailand–Nigeria Business Forum in Lagos.
The forum, held on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at the Radisson Blu Anchorage Hotel, brought together government officials, investors and private-sector stakeholders to explore opportunities for stronger trade and investment relations between Nigeria and Thailand.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Bada Ambrose-Medebem, described Lagos as Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre and a major financial and technology hub with access to one of Africa’s largest consumer markets.
Sanwo-Olu identified agriculture and agro-processing, manufacturing, automotive components, electronics, consumer goods, logistics, digital technology, healthcare, hospitality and tourism as key areas with significant opportunities for collaboration.
He said partnerships in these sectors could drive enterprise development, technology transfer, stronger local supply chains, skills development and quality employment for Lagos residents.
The governor noted that annual trade between Nigeria and Thailand currently stands at just over $200 million, describing the figure as modest compared with the economic potential of both countries.
He urged investors and business leaders to explore opportunities, identify suitable partners, understand the regulatory environment and commit capital to viable partnerships.
Speaking at the forum, Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, said the Thai delegation was not in Nigeria merely to explore opportunities but to build lasting partnerships.
He highlighted tourism, agriculture, food production, healthcare, wellness, culture and business events as areas where Thailand’s expertise could contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.
The forum also featured presentations by Thailand’s Export-Import Bank (EXIM Bank) and SOREX on financial solutions, trade finance, export credit insurance and investment advisory services aimed at facilitating cross-border transactions.
President and Chairman of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Leye Kupoluyi, said the proposed collaboration could translate into commercial deals, wealth creation and stronger regional production, describing Nigeria as a potential engine of regional economic growth.
The high-level forum underscored the commitment of Nigeria and Thailand to expanding bilateral trade, attracting investment and creating mutually beneficial economic partnerships.
