Lagos, July 1, 2025 — The Chief Executive Officer of Adidas Global Emerging Markets, Dave Thomas, on Tuesday, paid a courtesy visit to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, at the Lagos House, Marina, in a move seen as part of a broader engagement to deepen corporate presence and investment in Africa’s most dynamic economy.
During the meeting, held on July 1, 2025, both parties discussed potential areas of collaboration, with emphasis on youth empowerment, sports development, and economic partnerships tailored to the unique opportunities within Lagos State.
Governor Sanwo-Olu welcomed the Adidas delegation and expressed appreciation for the company’s interest in Lagos. He highlighted the administration’s strategic focus on attracting global brands to enhance local economic growth and strengthen Lagos’ status as a hub for commerce and innovation in Africa.
“Lagos is open for business, and we’re keen to partner with global players like Adidas in areas that empower our youth, promote healthy lifestyles, and boost local manufacturing,” the Governor stated.
In his remarks, Dave Thomas commended the state’s progressive leadership and noted Adidas’ readiness to explore areas where its global expertise and infrastructure can contribute to Nigeria’s and Lagos State’s development goals.
“We recognise Lagos as a strategic gateway to Africa, with a vibrant youth population and an appetite for global brands. We’re here to explore how Adidas can become a deeper part of this ecosystem through investment, innovation, and partnerships,” Thomas said.
The courtesy visit marks a significant step toward potential collaboration between Lagos State and one of the world’s leading sportswear giants, with future discussions expected to focus on localisation of production, sports infrastructure development, and community-based initiatives.
