The Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Jens Ole Bach Hansen, has shared insights into his recent visit to Lagos, emphasizing the city’s role as an economic powerhouse and cultural hub. Posting on LinkedIn on November 24, 2024, Hansen likened Lagos to global metropolises such as New York, Sydney, and Toronto, noting its status as Africa’s most populous city, with over 21 million people in its metropolitan area and ranking as the seventh fastest-growing city in the world.
During his visit, Hansen attended a conference on Antimicrobial Awareness hosted by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in collaboration with Denmark’s Ministry for Food, Agriculture, and Fisheries. The event, organized as part of World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week, focused on the prudent use of veterinary drugs—a key component of the ongoing Danish-Nigerian strategic sector cooperation program. The initiative aims to improve food safety and agricultural practices in Nigeria.
Hansen also participated in a meeting of EuroCham Nigeria at Nordic Hotels, where representatives from over 60 European companies operating in Nigeria gathered to discuss trade and investment opportunities. The discussions explored the challenges of doing business in Nigeria and the role of economic reforms in shaping the market. Hansen was joined by Gautier Mignot, EU ambassador to Nigeria, and Dutch ambassador Bengt van Loosdrecht, alongside other European diplomats.
He noted the presence of Danish companies such as Arla Foods, APM Terminals, and AAK at the meeting and engaged with stakeholders on strategies to strengthen European investment in Nigeria.
On his way back to the airport, Hansen experienced Lagos’s infamous traffic while passing through Balogun Market, one of Africa’s largest markets, which he described as a fascinating glimpse into the city’s vibrant streetscape.
