Lagos, California seal sister-state pact on climate, economy
Lagos State has formalised a sister-state relationship with the California State Assembly in the United States, following the adoption of Assembly Concurrent Resolution 129 (ACR 129). The resolution, sponsored by
Lagos State has formalised a sister-state relationship with the California State Assembly in the United States, following the adoption of Assembly Concurrent Resolution 129 (ACR 129).
The resolution, sponsored by Matt Haney, was unveiled at the California/Africa Climate and Economic Forum 2026, marking a major diplomatic and economic collaboration between both regions.
Government officials, business leaders and members of the Nigerian diaspora were in attendance at the event.
Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Office of Diaspora Affairs, Jermaine Sanwo-Olu, who represented Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, received the resolution on behalf of the state government.
He described the partnership as a structured framework for collaboration across key sectors, including climate resilience, transportation, infrastructure, innovation and economic development.
“This is more than a ceremonial agreement. It is a framework for action. Both regions have much to gain, and we intend to move quickly,” he said.
Jermaine noted that the partnership aligns with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the Sanwo-Olu administration, adding that it would strengthen Lagos’ global presence and open new pathways for sustainable growth.
He said the agreement would position Lagos as a globally connected city, while also reinforcing Nigeria’s role in international cooperation, driven in part by its diaspora community.
According to him, members of the Lagos and Nigerian diaspora would serve as critical links in facilitating investment, knowledge transfer and long-term engagement between both regions.
He also commended Toks Omishakin for his role in advancing the partnership.
Omishakin, in his remarks, said the agreement would promote clean mobility, climate innovation, economic growth and cultural exchange.
“The Lagos–California Sister-State Resolution builds on the strong partnership Governor Newsom has forged between California and Nigeria and reflects our shared commitment to practical, people-centred progress,” he said.
He added that the collaboration would deepen ties between both regions and create opportunities anchored on shared values of innovation and economic advancement.
The partnership comes amid growing global efforts to address climate change, urbanisation and economic transformation, with stakeholders describing it as a model for mutually beneficial international cooperation.
