Sanwo-Olu says electricity law is new deal for Lagosians

By Demi Adeniyi

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has assured every Lagosian that his administration is committed to providing access to electricity that is reliable and affordable.

Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance at the State House, Alausa, Ikeja, while signing the new Lagos State Electricity Bill, passed by the State’s House of Assembly into law.

The former President Muhammadu Buhari had last year signed the National Electricity amendment bill into law, moving the sector from exclusive to concurrent list, thereby empowering the states of the federation to make laws regulating electricity delivery in their domains.

Under the new dispensation, Lagos is the first state to sign an autonomous legislation to regulate its electricity market, thereby signifying its determination to reduce the stranglehold of the National Electric Regulatory Commission, the Transmission Board and the Gencos and Discos.  

Sanwo-Olu said the new law would tackle the ongoing challenges in the nation’s energy sector, aiming to promote economic growth, enhance quality of life, and ensure energy equity for all Lagosians.

The state’s new edict establishes a regulated electricity market that will provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable power. It encourages the use of diverse energy sources, fosters investment and innovation, and focuses on electrifying underserved areas.

To support these goals, the law creates key institutions such as the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LSERC) and the Lagos Independent System Operator (LISO). Special funds will be allocated for electrification projects and community development, while also protecting consumer interests and encouraging competition.

“With this law, we take a significant step towards eliminating the electricity blackouts that have affected our state for too long. This journey began back in 2021 when we launched the Lagos State Electricity Policy in preparation for this moment. We took our time to avoid repeating past mistakes and developed a comprehensive law that addresses our electricity challenges more effectively,” Sanwo-Olu said.

Our aim is to ensure that every resident in Lagos has access to electricity that is reliable and affordable.

Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Energy, Hon. Sabur Akanbi Olowa, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his visionary leadership.

He remarked, “This legislation cements Lagos State’s role as a pioneer in subnational energy reforms. It serves as a model for other states in Nigeria, setting the pace for transformative energy policies.”

Earlier, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, stated that the law decentralised the electricity market and encourages investment in modern energy solutions.

According to him, the Lagos State Electricity Law 2024 is not just a legislative milestone; it is a statement of the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration’s resolve to empower Lagosians with reliable energy, fostering industrial growth, economic prosperity, and environmental sustainability.

“Today, Lagos will step into a new era, an era where darkness gives way to light and the promise of uninterrupted electricity becomes a reality for millions. This is the dawn of a brighter Lagos, a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership.

“The law will foster public-private partnerships to deliver affordable and sustainable energy. And promote the adoption of renewable energy to achieve environmental sustainability.

“Through the law, we will be creating and encouraging an enabling and robust environment to attract critical investments into all levels of the sector’s supply chain”.

The Lagos State Electricity Law reflects the government’s dedication to improving the quality of life for Lagosians, strengthening the state’s position as a hub for innovation and investment.

This historic step signals the dawn of a new era in Lagos State’s energy landscape, with the promise of reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity for all residents.