* Laments Deficiency in Energy Availability
In a rousing address at the Lagos Energy Summit, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu laid out a bold and ambitious vision for a future powered by clean, reliable, and affordable energy, positioning Lagos as a beacon of innovation and leadership in Nigeria’s energy transition.
With a tone both humorous and visionary, Governor Sanwo-Olu opened with a light-hearted reflection underpinned by a quite serious message; the world is moving fast. With flying taxis in Dubai, underwater shuttles between continents, and even space tourism, Nigeria must keep pace, especially in an extremely critical sector like energy.
“We haven’t explored the world enough,” said Sanwo-Olu. “If I can wake up in Abuja and get to Lagos in five minutes — that’s the mindset we need to adopt. Limitless, solution-focused, forward-thinking.”
Declaring the summit open, the Governor called on all stakeholders — from state commissioners and private sector players to youth innovators and development partners — to align their efforts in building an energy-secure Lagos. He emphasized the urgency of moving beyond rhetoric to bold, collaborative action.
Echoing the summit’s theme, “Journey to Energy for All,” Sanwo-Olu highlighted the stark reality that millions of Nigerians still lack access to electricity — a situation he called unacceptable in the 21st century.
“It’s a shame on all of us to still have homes in darkness, three centuries after Edison invented the electric light bulb,” he said. “We must do whatever it takes to change that reality.”
He reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to a clean energy future by unveiling efforts already in motion, including the establishment of the Lagos State Independent Systems Operator, aimed at managing state-level grid operations to optimize power distribution and reliability. The Governor stressed that with the recent unbundling of the Nigerian power sector and the signing of the Electricity Act by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, states now have the legal and regulatory mandate to act; stating there was no more room for excuses.
“There are no hiding places anymore,” he declared. “It’s time for sub-nationals to stop pointing fingers and start delivering solutions.”
Paying tribute to President Bola Tinubu, the governor remarked that the President has been very consistent in his drive.
“20 years ago as Governor of Lagos State, he realized the need for something different and brought an independent power plant into the country. Now, as President, he signed the electricity act into Law”.
The governor also commended the Keynote Speaker, Prof. Bart Nnaji, a former minister of power and chairman of Geometric Power for his resilience.
“Prof. Nnaji had a vision a long time ago on enabling the sector through privatisation. And he has demonstrated the possibilities of that vision through what geometric power is doing in Abia state”.
At the heart of the Governor’s message is the ongoing aspiration to transform Lagos into a 24/7 economy powered by clean, uninterrupted electricity. He made it clear that power is more than a utility — it’s an economic enabler.
“Reliable energy will boost MSMEs, attract investments, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life across communities,” he noted. “From the welder in Alimosho to the hairdresser in Yaba, clean energy empowers lives and livelihoods.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the importance of affordability, transparency, and innovation in achieving this vision. He challenged regulators, operators, academics, and industry experts to work hand-in-hand, offering the full support of the Lagos State Government in facilitating solutions.
“Bring the memo. Bring the solution. I’ll sign it. We’ll make the money available and solve the problem,” he stated emphatically.
The Governor’s remarks extended beyond Lagos, as he called on other states to embrace the opportunity that energy transition presents. He envisioned the status of Lagos as truly a smart model city inspiring the emergence of other model cities in Nigeria and across Africa, powered by innovation, clean energy, and a shared commitment to sustainable development.
“Let Lagos lead by example, but let’s all rise together. Energy for all is not just a dream. It’s achievable — through partnership, trust, and decisive action.”
In closing, Governor Sanwo-Olu reminded the summit attendees that transformation begins with bold ideas, but it is sustained by action, accountability, and an unshakable commitment to the people.
“This is not a talk show,” he emphasized. “This is a call to action. Let us roll up our sleeves and get to work.”
As Lagos pushes ahead with policies and initiatives to redefine energy access, Governor Sanwo-Olu’s keynote sets the tone for a future where no home is left in darkness, no idea is too big to pursue, and no one is left behind in the journey towards energy for all.
