In a bold move to position itself as a leader in Africa’s clean energy transition, the Lagos State Government has announced plans to establish a Renewable Energy University and construct a state-of-the-art lithium battery manufacturing facility. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to harness sustainable energy solutions, drive innovation, and create green jobs across the state.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu made the announcement during the Lagos Green Future Forum held at Eko Atlantic on Wednesday. He described the dual projects as a game-changing investment in the state’s future and a strategic response to Nigeria’s growing energy demands and climate change commitments.
“This is about building capacity for the future and securing energy independence for generations to come,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Lagos will not just be a consumer of clean energy we will be a producer, an innovator, and a knowledge hub for the continent.”
The proposed Renewable Energy University will focus on research, development, and training in solar, wind, hydro, and battery technologies. It will offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs, along with vocational and technical training aimed at equipping young Nigerians with the skills needed to thrive in the global green economy.
The lithium battery production plant, set to be located in the Lekki Free Trade Zone, will support Nigeria’s transition to electric mobility and renewable power storage. With Africa’s growing demand for lithium-based energy storage solutions, officials say the facility will play a vital role in reducing dependence on imported batteries and boosting local manufacturing capacity.
According to the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, both projects will be developed in partnership with local and international stakeholders, including private investors, universities, and renewable energy firms. Talks are reportedly underway with several global tech companies and climate finance organizations.
Environmental advocates and industry leaders have praised the move as a progressive step toward sustainability and economic diversification.
“This is exactly the kind of leadership we need,” said Dr. Bola Ijeoma, a renewable energy expert based in Abuja. “Investing in both education and production infrastructure creates a self-sustaining ecosystem that can drive real change.”
Lagos, Nigeria’s economic nerve center, has faced persistent energy challenges, including inconsistent power supply and heavy reliance on fossil fuels. The state’s renewable energy roadmap aims to provide at least 30% of its power needs from clean sources by 2035.
Construction on both the university and the battery plant is expected to begin later this year, with phased completion timelines extending into 2027. The projects are projected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
As the state charts a new course in energy policy, officials hope Lagos will become a model for other subnational governments across Africa looking to integrate sustainability into their development agendas.
source: Legit.ng
