Lagos set to lead Energy Revolution at Inaugural Summit

Lagos State is set to take a significant step in transforming its energy sector with the upcoming Inaugural Lagos Energy Summit, scheduled for April 2025.

The summit, themed “Journey to Energy for All,” will bring together key stakeholders from various sectors to collaborate on innovative energy policies, sustainable solutions, and strategies to address the state’s long-standing energy challenges.

At a press conference unveiling the summit, Abiodun Ogunleye, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, outlined the critical need for a new approach to Lagos’ energy landscape.

Ogunleye highlighted the city’s historical energy issues, marked by unreliable power supply and reliance on dirty fuels.

He pointed out that these issues have been compounded by the ever-growing demand for energy as Lagos continues to expand.

Ogunleye noted that Lagos has made significant strides since the pioneering efforts of former Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 1999, when the Enron Badges IPP project was launched in an attempt to resolve the state’s energy crisis.

He also referenced the signing of the Electricity Bill that empowers subnational regulation, a move that has paved the way for transformative energy reforms at the state level.

“Lagos has long faced energy challenges, but we are determined to change that narrative. The Lagos Energy Summit is not just an event; it is a catalyst for action toward our goal of ensuring 24/7 power supply, which will drive the state’s socio-economic development and make Lagos a preferred destination for investment, entertainment, and more,” he said.

Ogunleye emphasized that the Lagos State Energy Law 2024, which was signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is a critical component in achieving these goals, providing a legal framework for energy regulation and distribution.

He said the summit is set to focus on key energy policies and the role of the Lagos State Electricity Law 2024, the Lagos State Energy Regulatory Commission, and other initiatives aimed at boosting Lagos’ energy generation and distribution capabilities.

Ogunleye stressed that the summit will be a platform for the state to promote renewable energy, address the evolving needs of the energy market, and highlight the need for sustainable energy practices in line with global climate goals.

“The Lagos Energy Summit will create a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to making energy accessible for all through innovative solutions,” Ogunleye explained.

“We aim to foster sustainable growth within the renewable energy sector, and we will focus on accelerating the adoption of clean energy technologies across the state,” he added.

In addition to addressing renewable energy, the commissioner stated that the summit will focus on the adoption of sustainable energy practices, creating actionable plans, and engaging stakeholders at every level.

Ogunleye mentioned that the event would also showcase new technologies and innovations driving the state’s energy transition ambitions.

“We are not only discussing energy issues,” he said, “but we are also taking concrete steps toward solutions that will benefit Lagos and its residents for generations.”

“The summit is expected to attract a diverse group of stakeholders, including energy professionals, government officials, private sector investors, academia, environmental groups, international organizations, and local communities.

“Each group plays a crucial role in shaping the future of energy in Lagos. The summit’s discussions will be aimed at fostering collaboration and dialogue between these stakeholders, providing a platform for the sharing of knowledge, best practices, and innovative solutions for tackling the state’s energy challenges,” he said.

He said “The Lagos Energy Summit 2025 is not merely a platform for dialogue; it is a launchpad for action. We invite local and international investors, energy developers, and policymakers to join us in this historic initiative. Together, we will ensure the realization of our shared vision for energy access and sustainability.”