The Lagos State Government has raised concerns over the growing threat of carbon monoxide pollution, revealing that approximately 30,000 people die each year in the state due to exposure.
The staggering figure, drawn from new reports, points to an urgent public health emergency.
During the 2025 Lagos Energy Summit held in Victoria Island, Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, painted a grim picture of the state’s current energy landscape, describing it as “both dire and unsustainable.”
He emphasized the need for swift and united action to cut down on the state’s dependence on fossil fuel-powered generators, which remain a major hazard to both health and the environment.
Ogunleye revealed that Lagos is home to about 4.5 million generators, used in homes, markets, and among Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
These generators collectively consume around 16 billion litres of fuel each year, translating to an annual cost of N14 trillion for residents, based on the current pump price of N900 per litre.
This heavy usage also contributes to the emission of 38 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually—surpassing the entire carbon output of nations like Togo, Rwanda, and Gabon.
“This is more than just an energy issue, it’s a public health emergency,” he stated.
Delivering the summit’s keynote address, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reiterated his administration’s commitment to shifting Lagos towards cleaner, renewable sources of energy.
He pointed out that although Lagosians are spending significantly on power generation, the approach remains disjointed and inefficient. “We are generating electricity, yes, but the way we are doing it is neither centralised nor sustainable,” Sanwo-Olu remarked.
He highlighted the role of energy in driving productivity and inclusive growth. Under the T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda, Lagos is now implementing a bold energy transition strategy aimed at creating a 24/7 economy powered by clean and stable electricity.
To support this transformation, the state is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from investors in gas-fired plants, large-scale solar power, and captive energy projects. The goal is to supply 6 gigawatts of consistent power to the state grid within the next three years.
Among the initiatives underway: upgrading 22,000 streetlights to energy-efficient systems; enforcement of the Lagos Electricity Law passed in December 2024, which lays the foundation for a Clean Lagos Electricity Market; rollout of the Lagos Gas Master Plan and its implementation roadmap; and updates to the Integrated Resource Plan alongside a new electricity policy to guide future development.
“These policies are not just documents. They are a map guiding us to Lagos Vision 2030. A future of clean, reliable, and affordable electricity for all,” Ogunleye stated.
He backed his message with key data: 72% of Lagos households own at least one generator; 94% of MSMEs rely on generators; and 76% of market areas are unable to operate without them—figures that underscore the urgent demand for more sustainable power solutions.
Wrapping up the summit, Governor Sanwo-Olu shared an optimistic outlook for Lagos, declaring the state ready to become Africa’s top destination for energy investments and a role model for regional energy transformation.
“We are building a Lagos where students, artisans, and entrepreneurs alike can thrive, powered by electricity that is not only clean and dependable but also affordable,” he said.