Lagos Becomes First African State to Join Project Management Institute Global Executive Council

In a historic milestone that reinforces Lagos State’s position as a leader in governance and infrastructure development, Lagos has become the first African government to join the Project Management Institute (PMI) Global Executive Council (GEC). This prestigious alliance brings together top representatives from leading organizations worldwide to exchange best practices in project management, foster professional learning, and host influential industry events.

The announcement was made during a notable reception at Lagos House, Marina, where the Lagos State Government welcomed the PMI Board of Directors, global leaders, and regional representatives.

This event marked the first time PMI’s global board convened in Nigeria, highlighting the country’s growing influence in shaping global project management standards. Lagos Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu welcomed the 23-member PMI delegation, led by President and CEO Pierre Le Manh, emphasizing the significance of the state’s new membership. He described it as “a defining moment that aligns with our vision to embed project management excellence across government sectors and ensure the timely, efficient delivery of infrastructure and social programs for our citizens.”

Sanwo-Olu added, “In two decades, Lagos will be fully prepared to take on the world stage. To realize our 30-year development plan and advance the T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda, we require world-class project management expertise. This partnership with PMI is more than words; it’s a strong declaration of our commitment and responsibility.”

Lagos showcased its flagship projects that exemplify its transformative agenda, including the Blue Line Rail, which reduces commute times from two hours to just 18 minutes; the Lekki–Epe Expressway, serving Africa’s fastest-growing economic zone; and Africa’s largest food logistics park inspired by Paris’s Rungis International Market.

Pierre Le Manh highlighted Africa’s emerging role in global project management, describing it as entering a “Golden Age” of infrastructure development. “With its vibrant youth and ambitious vision, Lagos has the potential to leapfrog traditional development models. We are honored that Lagos State has chosen PMI as its partner in building this capacity.”

The visit coincides with Nigeria hosting the inaugural PMI Africa Week in October 2025, aimed at addressing Nigeria’s projected shortfall of up to 211,000 project professionals by 2035. Lagos’s commitment to certifying its public servants marks a groundbreaking, government-led initiative in Africa, demonstrating its dedication to institutional excellence and capacity building.

George Asamani, PMI Sub-Saharan Africa Managing Director, remarked, “When Nigeria’s commercial capital invests in project management certification, it creates unstoppable momentum. Lagos is proving that professional project management is essential for sustainable development, as critical as roads or energy grids.”

During the event, presentations highlighted Lagos’s impressive infrastructure pipeline, including over $122 billion in energy investments planned through 2045 and multiple ongoing rail projects. Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, Managing Director of Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), shared that the Blue Line Rail now operates 90 daily trips with zero accidents, transporting over 60,000 passengers daily—testament to Lagos’s dedication to safe, efficient urban mobility.

“Project management professionals are nation-builders, as vital as doctors and lawyers,” said Governor Sanwo-Olu, who accepted the title of PMI Africa Week Champion for Nigeria. “In today’s world, successful delivery is key to progress, and investing in project talent is one of the most strategic decisions a government can make.”

The reception concluded with vibrant cultural performances celebrating Lagos as Africa’s entertainment hub. The PMI delegation, comprising 12 global board members, wrapped up their visit after engaging in high-level discussions. Meanwhile, PMI Africa Week activities, including certification initiatives, continue through October, reinforcing Lagos’s emerging status as a global hub for project leadership and innovation.