Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, on Wednesday, inaugurated electrification projects in Badagry border communities to address the longstanding electricity challenges in the area.

Mr Sanwo-Olu said investment in such projects would be beneficial to the people.

The projects inaugurated include three HC Tower Crossings, the newly rehabilitated 33KV distribution lines along the Gaji–Seme and Owode–Apa corridors, and the connection of fifty-one transformer substations.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, said the projects represented a deliberate intervention by the state government to address the longstanding electricity challenges in the Badagry area.

Mr Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the government was not merely inaugurating power infrastructure but restoring confidence.

He said: “We are unlocking opportunities, and bringing lasting relief to communities that have long awaited improved electricity supply in the area.

“This intervention aligns strongly with our THEMES+ Development Agenda, particularly our commitment to expanding energy access and building resilient infrastructure that supports economic growth across every part of Lagos State.

“With the recent inauguration of the Board of the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission, Lagos is positioning itself to regulate and expand electricity supply more effectively.

“It will ensure that infrastructure investments such as this deliver lasting benefits to our people,” he said.

Mr Sanwo-Olu noted that beyond providing electricity, the project represented an opportunity for traders to extend their business hours.

He added that it would allow artisans and small manufacturers to increase productivity, schools and healthcare facilities to function more effectively, and families to enjoy a better quality of life.

He said the electrification projects would significantly strengthen power distribution across the Gbaji–Seme and Owode–Apa corridor.

The governor said it would also enable thousands of homes, shops, and businesses to benefit from improved and more stable electricity supply.

He added that border communities such as Badagry would benefit from sustained investment in infrastructure that supports trade, productivity, and community wellbeing.

“Badagry is not only a historic town of immense cultural significance; it is also one of the most important gateways into the state and country.

“As a border corridor connecting Nigeria to the Republic of Benin and the wider West African region, Badagry holds tremendous economic potential for trade, commerce, and cross-border enterprise,” he said.

Mr Sanwo-Olu, therefore, congratulated the residents of Gbaji, Seme, Owode, Apa, and surrounding communities, as well as the entire people of Badagry.

He described the project as one that truly belonged to them and urged them to take collective ownership of the infrastructure by protecting it from vandalism.

He advised them to ensure that the projects continued to serve their communities for many years to come.

Sabur Oluwa, the chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly committee on energy and mineral resources, described the infrastructure as a clear testament to the visionary leadership of the Lagos State government in advancing sustainable infrastructure.

Mr Oluwa added that the project would expand access to reliable electricity for communities across the state.

He noted that the restoration and strengthening of power infrastructure within the community would stimulate economic activities, enhance security, and significantly improve residents’ standard of living.

Earlier, the commissioner for energy and mineral resources, Biodun Ogunleye, noted that the inauguration of the power projects was a response to the power challenges facing the community for many years.

Mr Ogunleye assured that the power infrastructure would improve electricity access, strengthen distribution capacity, and enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses in the community.

Also, the special adviser to the governor on mineral resources, Abiola Olowu, said the milestone reflected the unwavering commitment of the Lagos State government to the provision of critical power infrastructure.

According to him, it aimed at improving the well-being of the people while supporting sustainable socio-economic development across the local government area and the state at large. 

(NAN)