Governor Sanwo-Olu Signs Lagos Electricity Bill 2024 into Law, Paving Way for 24-Hour Power Supply
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has signed the Lagos Electricity Bill 2024 into law, marking a transformative milestone in the state’s quest for uninterrupted power supply.
The bill, which aims to deliver 24-hour electricity across the state, was officially signed on Tuesday, as disclosed by Gboyega Akosile, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, through his official X (formerly Twitter) account.
The signing comes in the wake of the Federal Government’s 2023 approval granting states the authority to generate and distribute electricity independently.
This legislative move allows Lagos State to take decisive control of its power generation and distribution frameworks.
Akosile, in his tweet, highlighted the significance of this development, stating: “Lagos State Governor @jidesanwoolu today signed the Lagos Electricity Bill 2024. The bill is a major step by the State Government, to ensure 24 hours electricity supply to every nook and cranny of the State, following the FG’s nod for States to generate and distribute energy in 2023.”
A video accompanying the post featured Governor Sanwo-Olu, flanked by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and senior cabinet members, during the bill’s signing ceremony.
The scene captured a moment of collective optimism for the state’s energy reform agenda.
The Lagos Electricity Bill 2024 replaces the Lagos State Power Sector Reform Law of 2018, aligning the state’s energy policies with the Federal Government’s recent electricity deregulation framework.
Central to the new legislation are several innovative provisions aimed at revolutionising Lagos’s power sector such as:
Creation of Regulatory Bodies: The Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission will oversee the electricity market, regulate power generation, and set tariffs.
Expansion of Access: The Lagos State Electrification Agency will focus on promoting off-grid solutions, improving access to electricity in underserved areas, and driving rural electrification.
Integrated Electricity Policy: The bill introduces a roadmap for sustainable energy, prioritising renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and decarbonisation.
Funding Mechanisms: A Lagos Electrification Fund has been established to support grid expansion and off-grid projects, ensuring the financial sustainability of energy initiatives.
Enhanced Governance: The creation of an Independent System Operator to manage grid operations and a Power Enforcement Unit to combat electricity theft will strengthen the state’s power infrastructure.
This legislative breakthrough heralds a new era of energy independence for Lagos, promising reliable power for households, businesses, and industries.
It is expected to address long-standing electricity challenges, boost investor confidence, and catalyse economic growth.
With the emphasis on public-private partnerships and sustainable energy solutions, Lagos aims to position itself as a leader in Nigeria’s energy transition, delivering consistent and environmentally friendly electricity for its over 20 million residents.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to energy reform reflects the state’s broader vision of infrastructural and economic development, with a view to transforming the state into Nigeria’s industrial hub of excellence.
