Lagos is steadily transforming its night time outlook as more than twenty two thousand solar powered streetlights are now illuminating major roads, bridges and neighbourhoods across the state. The large scale rollout, driven by the Lagos State Electrification Agency under the supervision of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, marks a renewed push to improve safety, visibility and environmental responsibility in Africa’s largest city.
From the Governor’s Road around the Alausa Secretariat through Mobolaji Johnson Way, the Accident and Emergency Seven Up axis, Old Toll Gate to Olusosun, Herbert Macaulay Way in Yaba and Bode Thomas Road in Surulere, the glow of restored streetlights has become increasingly visible. Several other key corridors have also come alive, including Muritala Muhammed Way, Ebute Metta, Jibowu, Market Street in Oyingbo, Iddo, Eko Bridge, Marina Bridge, Governor’s Road in Ikotun and the Lekki Ikoyi Link Bridge.
Work is progressing steadily in other parts of the metropolis. Installations are ongoing along Ikorodu Road from Anthony through Palm Grove to Fadeyi, while Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way linking Ikeja GRA to Maryland is also receiving attention. The overhead section of the Ikeja Bridge is nearing completion, with additional work continuing on Western Avenue, the Gbagada Oshodi Expressway, Alapere Ogudu, Agric Ikorodu and other busy routes. The Lekki Epe Expressway is expected to be added to the network in the coming phase.
For many years, Lagos depended largely on grid electricity and diesel powered lighting to brighten its streets at night. According to the Lagos State Electrification Agency, that approach proved expensive, unreliable and harmful to the environment. This reality pushed the state government to rethink its public lighting system and embrace renewable energy as a cleaner and more sustainable solution.
The shift gave rise to the ongoing solar streetlight project, which is fast reshaping the city’s nightscape. Beyond improving visibility, the initiative is enhancing security, reducing energy costs and promoting environmental protection. Across highways, bridges and residential areas, the solar lights are changing how Lagos looks and feels after dark.
Speaking on the project, the Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Electrification Agency, Ololade Agboola, said the progress recorded so far reflects strong leadership and careful planning by the state government under Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo Olu. She explained that the Light Up Lagos Solar Streetlight Initiative aligns with the administration’s THEMES Plus agenda and showcases effective collaboration within government.
Agboola noted that under the guidance of the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, and the General Manager of the agency, Kamaldeen Abiodun Balogun, Lagos is setting a new standard for sustainable urban infrastructure in Nigeria. She confirmed that more than twenty two thousand solar powered streetlights are either installed or being installed across the state.
Balogun added that the project highlights the government’s determination to use renewable energy as a driver of sustainable development. He described the initiative as a clear statement of the governor’s commitment to building a cleaner, greener and safer Lagos for residents and future generations.
Each solar streetlight functions as a self contained power unit, storing energy from sunlight during the day and providing steady illumination at night. The system requires no connection to the national grid and no fuel to operate, making it reliable, easy to maintain and environmentally friendly.
According to the agency, the success of the Light Up Lagos project goes beyond lighting roads alone. It represents progress, improved public safety and a shared commitment to a cleaner environment for the people of Lagos state.l
