Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called for stronger partnerships and increased investment to expand access to reliable and clean energy across Lagos.
Epe Insights reports that Sanwo-Olu made the call while participating in discussions on the Electrify Now agenda at the Global Renewables Summit held during Climate Week NYC.
The Global Renewables Summit brought together government leaders, businesses, investors and international organisations to discuss renewable-powered electrification, investment and partnerships.
According to Sanwo-Olu, Lagos requires urgent action to expand access to reliable and clean energy because of the state’s large and growing population.
The governor said Lagos has a population of more than 24 million people and that access to reliable energy should remain an immediate priority.
He also said Lagos needed to build on the outcomes of COP31 through practical action and stronger cooperation in the renewable energy sector.
Sanwo-Olu noted that Africa has the resources required to participate in the transition to renewable energy.
He, however, stressed the need for appropriate investments to ensure that clean energy solutions are affordable and accessible.
The governor disclosed that he had approved 15 renewable energy distribution projects in Lagos.
He identified access to funding as a major challenge to the implementation of renewable energy projects.
According to him, although funds are available in the market, some investors remain reluctant to take the initial risks associated with such projects.
The governor therefore called for stronger partnerships between Lagos, investors and other stakeholders in the renewable energy sector.
He also advocated for a global financing system that recognises the challenges and opportunities associated with renewable energy development across Africa.
Sanwo-Olu said Lagos was prepared to contribute to efforts aimed at expanding clean energy access.
His remarks at the summit placed particular emphasis on financing, investment and partnerships as important factors in advancing renewable-powered electrification.
The Global Renewables Summit was held on September 21 and 22, 2026, in New York as part of Climate Week NYC. The event focused on accelerating renewable-powered electrification and mobilising investment for clean energy systems.
The summit’s organisers said the gathering was designed to advance policies, investments and partnerships needed to accelerate electrification and expand renewable energy capacity.
The discussions also formed part of broader international efforts ahead of COP31, with stakeholders examining practical steps for increasing renewable energy deployment.
For Lagos, the governor’s intervention highlighted the state’s interest in attracting investment into renewable and decentralised energy projects.
The state has previously pursued partnerships aimed at strengthening decentralised power infrastructure. In April 2026, Lagos signed Power Purchase Agreements with three independent power plant operators as part of efforts to bring electricity closer to demand centres.
The state has also sought international financing for clean power projects. In September, Sanwo-Olu called for a dedicated Lagos Clean Power Investment Vehicle backed by British institutional capital and Nigerian private-sector investment.
The governor’s latest remarks therefore come amid continuing efforts by the Lagos State Government to attract capital and partnerships for energy projects.
The focus on renewable energy also reflects wider discussions around improving electricity access while supporting cleaner energy systems.
Sanwo-Olu said the available resources in Africa could support the renewable energy transition if accompanied by the right investments and financing arrangements.
He further called for financing mechanisms that recognise the specific circumstances of African economies.
The governor’s position is that stronger financial support and partnerships can help move renewable energy projects from approval to implementation.
For Lagos, the approved 15 renewable energy distribution projects represent part of the state’s stated pipeline of projects in the sector, while funding remains an issue identified by the governor.
The discussion also underscores the importance of cooperation between governments, investors, development institutions and private-sector operators in expanding energy infrastructure.
As global stakeholders continue discussions around renewable-powered electrification, Lagos is seeking to position itself for increased investment in clean and decentralised energy.
Sanwo-Olu said the state was ready to play its part in the global transition while calling for financing structures that can help unlock projects across Africa.
The governor’s participation at the Global Renewables Summit provided an opportunity for Lagos to highlight its renewable energy plans and seek stronger international cooperation.
The summit’s broader agenda continues to focus on moving from renewable energy commitments to practical implementation through investment, infrastructure and partnerships.
