United Capital CEO discusses trade and investment ties with Gauteng

Intra-Africa trade has increasingly become a top priority for countries on the continent, aiming to strengthen economic ties and promote business growth. Recently, CNBC Africa had the opportunity to interview Toyin Sanni, the CEO of United Capital, at the Doing Business in Gauteng event in Lagos. The discussion revolved around the importance of building stronger connections between the Howtank region in South Africa and Nigeria's Lagos State. Sanni emphasized the role of private companies and individuals in driving business initiatives, highlighting the significance of collaborations between different sectors. Reflecting on the trade mission led by the government, Sanni commended the efforts of both the Premier of Gauteng and the Lagos State government for their proactive approach towards fostering bilateral relations. He stressed the need for private sector entities to capitalize on the identified areas of investment to facilitate meaningful partnerships. Sanni also lauded the proposal of establishing a council to streamline cooperation between the two regions, emphasizing the importance of addressing regulatory challenges and trade barriers. By leveraging advocacy efforts at national and subnational levels, Sanni suggested that businesses could thrive and expand. He underscored the pivotal role of innovation and creativity in driving growth, citing the success of sectors such as digital technology and creative industries that enable individuals to express their talents freely. Sanni predicted that as businesses forge ahead with their entrepreneurial endeavors, regulatory frameworks would evolve to support their activities. The interview shed light on the transformative potential of cross-border collaborations and the positive outlook for trade and investment ties between South Africa's Gauteng and Nigeria's Lagos State.