Sanwo-Olu Commissions West Africa’s Largest Safety Footwear Factory in Lagos
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has officially commissioned the largest safety footwear manufacturing factory in West Africa, marking a major milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward industrial self-reliance. The new plant, owned by Yikodeen Company Limited, is located in Lagos and aims to significantly boost local production capacity, reduce imports, and create jobs.
The commissioning ceremony, held on June 24, 2025, brought together prominent figures from government, industry, and traditional institutions. Dignitaries included Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife; Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri; and the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Felix Ogbe. The Chairman of Yikodeen’s Board, Ajibola Akindele, served as chief host.
Yikodeen’s new 120,000-square-foot facility is now capable of producing 5,000 pairs of safety boots daily, a dramatic increase from its modest beginning in 2016 when the company produced only 20 pairs per day. This scale-up represents a 250-fold increase in production and showcases Nigeria’s potential to lead in specialized manufacturing sectors.
Speaking at the event, Yikodeen CEO Atunde Olayinka described the launch as more than just a business milestone. “This is a declaration of intent,” he said. “We are unlocking new possibilities for industrial self-reliance in Nigeria and across Africa.”
The factory features cutting-edge global technologies, including automated European production lines, precision quality control systems, and fully integrated production processes. It will produce a diverse range of footwear, including industrial safety boots, educational footwear, and the company’s fast-growing Yiko Plus athletic shoe line.
The economic impact of the factory is already taking shape. Over 180 skilled roles have been added during the expansion, with at least 20 more hires expected as the facility reaches full operation. The factory is projected to inject more than ₦5 billion annually into the Nigerian economy through direct employment, local procurement, and regional supply chain partnerships.
The expansion was made possible through a strategic investment from Aruwa Capital Management, a women-founded private equity firm focused on empowering women and local enterprises. Though the exact financial figures were not revealed, the investment — believed to be in the multi-million-dollar range — enabled Yikodeen’s digital transformation, market expansion, and infrastructure upgrade.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the significance of industrial development in Lagos and praised Yikodeen’s commitment to excellence. He reiterated his administration’s support for homegrown enterprises, highlighting how strategic investments in manufacturing can fuel economic transformation and job creation.
The opening of the factory is expected to play a key role in reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported safety footwear, strengthening local industries, and establishing the country as a hub for footwear production in West Africa.