June 21, 2022

The General Manager, Lagos State Electricity Board, Engr. Mukhtaar Tijani has restated the government’s commitment to developing infrastructure that will facilitate the State’s transition to a renewable energy system.

Making this known at a sensitisation campaign tagged: “Light Up Makoko”, held recently in Makoko Community, Lagos Mainland, Tijani affirmed that the present administration is desirous of drastically reducing the State’s carbon footprint.

“As more and more countries are expanding energy generation from renewable and sustainable sources, the State Government, in line with its commitment to the Lagos Climate Action Plan, is increasing attention to decarbonising the power system and providing structures to meet the energy needs of the populace”, he said.

Addressing members of the community, Tijani established that the engagement is to facilitate the diversification of energy supply by allowing communities access to available opportunities and resources to generate their renewable energy.

His words: “A greater electricity demand requires both renewable sources and a stronger delivery system. To this end, the State government is engendering partnerships and identifying opportunities towards building formidable energy network that has the potential to transform socio-economic environments of the State”.

Affirming that the provision of 24-hour power is a fundamental requirement for Lagos State, Tijani disclosed that access to clean modern energy services is crucial for socio-economic development and poverty eradication.

“We realised that citizens remain locked out of the decision-making processes of the energy transition. This engagement and training is part of the more integrated approach we have outlined to inculcate the culture of sustainable living in Lagosians”, the General Manager said.

Describing the initiative as a profound way of saving the future from environmental and social catastrophe, Tijani opined that investment in the ever-evolving sector is aimed at making Lagos a major hub for renewable energy.

“This is a lofty effort of the present administration in reducing the knowledge gaps and financial constraints in the energy ecosystem. We encourage Lagosians to embrace the new initiative as the government is determined to empower communities to drive projects in the low-carbon energy transition”, he added.

Tijani pointed out that the desire of the State government to promote sustainable power sources for off-grid/under-served communities is in tandem with Goal 7 of SDGs, which is to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all.