with a call for collective action among government, residents, community leaders, private sector players and other relevant stakeholders towards achieving sustainable electricity supply.
The engagement brought together government officials, traditional rulers, community development associations, residents, youths, religious leaders, professional groups and representatives of relevant government agencies to deliberate on the prevailing electricity situation and possible interventions.
In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Engr. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing the electricity challenges affecting the local government.
The Chairman noted that while government was already taking steps to address the situation, meaningful and sustainable progress would require the participation and cooperation of all stakeholders.
He stressed that the engagement was designed to provide an avenue for residents to understand the plans of the State Government while also allowing the people to express their concerns and contribute to the search for practical solutions.
The Chairman further noted that the electricity challenge could not be resolved by government alone, stressing the need for a collective effort involving government, residents, businesses, communities and other stakeholders.
Delivering the keynote address, the Honourable Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Abiodun Ogunleye, outlined various issues surrounding electricity infrastructure, power supply and the development of a more coordinated electricity system across the State.
The Commissioner explained that the State Government was working on several interventions aimed at improving electricity supply and strengthening the infrastructure required to support the rapidly developing communities within the Lagos coastal axis.
He also addressed issues relating to existing infrastructure, power generation and distribution, as well as the need for proper coordination among relevant agencies and stakeholders.
The Commissioner noted that some existing infrastructure and developments presented challenges that required careful planning and coordination, particularly where electricity infrastructure and other existing developments or rights-of-way overlap.
He further emphasized the importance of developing solutions that would take into consideration the peculiar needs of communities while ensuring that government plans were properly coordinated with relevant agencies and stakeholders.
The engagement also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to raise concerns and make contributions on the electricity situation in their respective communities.
Among those represented at the event were traditional institutions, Community Development Committees (CDCs), religious bodies, youth organizations, residents’ associations, professional groups and representatives of government ministries, departments and agencies.
The gathering also acknowledged the presence and contributions of traditional and community leaders, including High Chief Adejumo, the Bale of Alahun and former Chairman of the Bale-in-Council, alongside other distinguished leaders and stakeholders.
Representatives of relevant government institutions and agencies also participated in the engagement, reflecting the multi-sectoral approach required to address the electricity challenges and other infrastructure-related issues affecting the area.
The Local Government reaffirmed its commitment to continued engagement with the State Government, relevant agencies, communities and other stakeholders in pursuit of practical and sustainable solutions to the electricity challenges within Ibeju-Lekki.
The engagement concluded with a shared understanding that improving electricity supply requires sustained collaboration, effective planning, responsible stakeholder participation and continued dialogue between government and the people.