Sanwo-Olu seeks partnership with Sweden on clean energy for transport sector

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos, says plans are underway to improve transport infrastructure in the state. 

The governor spoke on Friday when he received Annika Hahn-Englund, the Swedish ambassador to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), at the state house, Alausa. 

The governor said the sustenance of an efficient intermodal public transportation network is a critical component of his administration’s economic agenda. 

He said the state had adopted an energy policy that would enable the state-run transport agencies to diversify to clean energy use and lower carbon emissions.

Sanwo-Olu said Lagos is ready for more investment and partnership to raise its capacity in the use of clean energy for solutions in mobility services.

“We are currently engaged in providing modern infrastructure around three transportation models, which are waterways, road and rail,” he said. 

He said the Lagos government is aware of emerging issues surrounding the operations of public transportation. 

“Efforts are already in place to ensure sustainable development and create an eco-friendly environment,” Sanwo-Olu said. 

“That is why the state government signed an MoU with Oando Energy firm to test electric vehicles for public transportation. The proof of concept is underway and it will give us clear direction on what is required both on the infrastructure end and the mobility side of it.

“As a government, we are working on all of the options. We also have a relationship with Scania AB and TML on data gathering towards ensuring the safety of the passengers using our services. 

“We need more symbiotic partnerships in this sector, not a handout. This is a conversation in which we both can identify what the needs should be. With partnership, we can develop a win-win relationship.”

The governor said the ongoing feasibility study of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) operational capacity by a Swedish firm would result in the development of solutions to reduce accidents.

He said Lagos remains open for more Swedish investment opportunities, assuring that the state would continue to initiate policies that would ease restrictions on foreign investment.

Hahn-Englund thanked the governor for prioritising economic cooperation with her country. 

She said a feasibility study by Sensys Gasto Group, a Swedish firm, was in the pipeline to promote road safety in Lagos. 

The envoy added that the Swedish company would work with the Lagos government to create a system that would register and send out violations, as well as monitor fine payments.