Key Points
- Sanwo-Olu describes energy transition as critical to Nigeria’s energy security
- Governor says power sector reforms have created opportunities for states
- Lagos deploying mini-grids to improve electricity access in underserved communities
- State has installed more than 45,000 solar-powered streetlights
- Lagos to host Climate Action Week in September
Main Story
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has described Nigeria’s ongoing energy transition as the most critical phase in strengthening the country’s energy security.
Sanwo-Olu made the remarks during the Under2 States and Regions Dialogue at the London Climate Summit, organised by Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Under2 Coalition. According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, the governor said recent reforms in the electricity sector had opened up new opportunities for sub-national governments to address energy challenges. He noted that the unbundling of the power sector now allows states to participate in electricity generation and distribution, creating room for innovative solutions to improve energy access.
Sanwo-Olu said Lagos was taking advantage of the new policy environment to strengthen energy sufficiency and expand electricity access through mini-grid projects. He added that the state had recorded improvements in electricity supply in communities served by the mini-grid initiative. The governor also highlighted Lagos’ investment in renewable energy, disclosing that more than 45,000 solar-powered streetlights and poles had been installed across the state over the past year.
Sanwo-Olu further stressed the need to place Africa at the centre of global energy transition discussions, citing the continent’s renewable energy potential and mineral resources.
On the sidelines of the summit, he announced that Lagos would host a Climate Action Week in September to showcase climate and sustainability projects across the state.
The issues
- Energy security and electricity access
- State participation in power generation and distribution
- Renewable energy deployment
- Africa’s role in the global energy transition
- Climate resilience and sustainable development
What’s Being Said
“However, the sector has now opened up, allowing states to participate across the entire value chain, from generation to distribution.” — Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on the opportunities created by electricity sector reforms.
“We are actively changing the narrative around energy sufficiency.” — Sanwo-Olu, outlining the state’s approach to addressing electricity challenges.
“People who previously had less than 12 hours of electricity daily now enjoy between 20 and 21 hours of supply. This has greatly improved their economic productivity and quality of life.” — Sanwo-Olu, on the impact of Lagos’ mini-grid initiatives.
“If the world is serious about a successful energy transition, Africa must be at the centre of the conversation.” — Sanwo-Olu, calling for greater investment and attention to Africa’s energy potential.
“We are making a commitment to host our own Climate Action Week in September, where nations and stakeholders from around the world can come and see what we are doing.” — Sanwo-Olu, announcing plans for the climate-focused event.
What’s next
- Lagos is expected to continue expanding mini-grid projects and renewable energy infrastructure.
- Preparations will begin for the Climate Action Week scheduled for September.
- The state will seek greater engagement with investors, development partners and climate-focused organisations.
- Ongoing power sector reforms could create additional opportunities for state-led electricity projects.
Bottom line
Sanwo-Olu says electricity sector reforms are enabling Lagos to play a bigger role in improving energy access, with the state expanding mini-grid projects, investing in renewable energy and positioning itself as a key player in Nigeria’s energy transition.
