Lagos, Nigeria – June 2025
The United States government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic relations with Nigeria by identifying the Lagos Free Zone (LFZ) as a strategic hub for deeper U.S. investments in West Africa.
This development followed a high-level visit by a delegation from the U.S. Mission to Nigeria, led by the U.S. Ambassador, Richard Mills Jr., to the Lagos Free Zone located in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State. The ambassador commended the infrastructure and investment-friendly policies of the zone, describing it as a gateway for American companies seeking to establish a stronger presence in Africa’s largest economy.
“We are impressed with the level of development and the seamless integration of logistics and industrial operations within the Lagos Free Zone,” Ambassador Mills stated. “The presence of top American brands like Kellogg’s and Colgate is a positive indicator, and we encourage more U.S. businesses to consider the opportunities available here.”
The Lagos Free Zone, developed and operated by the Tolaram Group, spans approximately 850 hectares and is designed to offer a fully integrated business ecosystem, with proximity to the Lekki Deep Sea Port, a single-window clearance system, and dedicated infrastructure for export-oriented manufacturing.
During the visit, the U.S. delegation received briefings on the zone’s long-term strategy, including its focus on sustainable energy, efficient transportation networks, and incentives for foreign direct investment. Officials of the LFZ emphasized the potential for the zone to serve as a launchpad for U.S. companies looking to access the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and regional markets.
In his remarks, LFZ Chief Executive Officer, Adesuwa Ladoja, noted that the zone’s growing global interest is a testament to Nigeria’s evolving business landscape. “The Lagos Free Zone continues to attract credible investors due to its efficient systems, infrastructure, and alignment with federal economic diversification policies,” she said.
Earlier this year, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) announced a $50 million equity investment into the zone to support industrial growth and infrastructure development, further reinforcing international confidence in the zone’s prospects.
The U.S. interest in the Lagos Free Zone is expected to be a major talking point at the upcoming U.S.–Africa Business Summit, as Nigeria seeks to deepen trade relations and attract high-impact investment into its non-oil sectors.
The visit and endorsements mark a significant milestone in U.S.–Nigeria economic diplomacy, with the Lagos Free Zone positioned as a catalyst for job creation, technology transfer, and enhanced trade flows across Africa.
