Lagos and California have established a formal sister-state relationship, creating a framework for closer cooperation in technology, trade, education, healthcare, climate action and the creative economy.
The agreement was signed by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and California Assemblymember Matt Haney during a ceremony at the historic Leland Stanford Mansion in Sacramento.
The partnership followed the passage of Assembly Concurrent Resolution 129 (ACR 129), introduced by Haney and approved by the California Legislature. California Assemblymember Isaac Bryan also worked with Haney on the initiative.
Under the agreement, both regions will explore collaboration across several sectors, including digital innovation, creative and cultural industries, infrastructure, biotechnology, entrepreneurship, sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.
Speaking at the ceremony, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the similarities between Lagos and California, particularly their large youth populations, strong entertainment industries, technology ecosystems and strategic coastal locations.
He described Lagos as a major economic and cultural centre where “Nigeria banks, trades, films, sings and codes”, while pointing to Yaba’s technology ecosystem, Nollywood, Afrobeats and the Lekki Port as examples of the state’s growing influence.
Sanwo-Olu said the partnership was not based on charity but on the recognition that both regions have experiences and resources they can share.
“California has Hollywood; Lagos has Nollywood. California has Silicon Valley; Lagos has Yaba. California has the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach; Lagos has Lekki,” he said.
He also noted that both regions face environmental challenges, although in different forms, with California dealing with wildfires and drought while Lagos contends with flooding and rising sea levels.
Haney, who has previously visited Yaba, said the new relationship could unlock opportunities across sectors such as fashion, food, culture and technology. He described the potential for cooperation between the two regions as extensive, particularly given the connections between their young populations.
The ceremony also brought together representatives from both governments, including members of the Lagos State House of Assembly, California officials, business leaders and members of the Nigerian community.
Lagos culture featured prominently at the event, with an Eyo masquerade performance accompanied by talking drums and Yoruba music.
Afretrade CEO Lekan Salaam also shared his experience of moving to California as a young man and later establishing a company focused on promoting investment in Nigeria.
The Lagos State Government said the partnership would strengthen existing links between Lagos, California and the Nigerian diaspora while creating new avenues for businesses, entrepreneurs, artists and innovators in both regions.
