Speaking at the official launch of MyLagosApp on Thursday, Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, stressed the need for technology-driven governance to manage the challenges that come with Lagos’ unending growth.

“What we manage in Lagos is bigger than most countries in Africa,” he stated, noting that beyond GDP comparisons, the volume of services and infrastructure the state oversees requires innovative solutions.

The governor highlighted key urban issues, including waste management and education, stating that Lagos generates “13,000 metric tonnes of waste daily” and has a primary school population equivalent to “84% of a population.”

With the launch of MyLagosApp, the government aims to streamline access to essential city services, from real-time traffic updates and emergency response coordination to utility payments and business listings. 

The app, developed in collaboration with MTN and several government agencies, is built as a very important link between residents and public services.

“By strategically harnessing technology, we are not only enhancing governance and improving service delivery but also simplifying and enriching the lives of every resident in this very vibrant state,” Hamzat said.

The MyLagosApp is designed to be an inclusive platform, ensuring that residents across all parts of Lagos—“from people on the mainland to the island—can access government services efficiently.”

The governor urged Lagosians to “embrace this app, download it, use it, explore it, and fully utilize the services it offers,” stressing that innovation is a continuous journey and community involvement is essential to the app’s success.

As part of the state’s digital transformation initiatives, Hamzat also revealed plans to integrate real-time tracking for the newly introduced ‘little buses’ under the state’s transportation system, ensuring commuters can access information on bus routes and schedules.

The deputy governor reiterated the administration’s focus on making Lagos a smarter, more efficient, and inclusive city, serving as a model for urban innovation in Africa.

The announcement was made by Gboyega Akosile, the Governor’s special adviser on Media and Publicity, via a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account. 

The signing ceremony, which took place on Tuesday, was attended by Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat and other top government officials.

This legislation replaces the Lagos State Power Sector Reform Law of 2018, aligning with the Federal Government’s 2023 decision to allow states to independently generate and distribute electricity. 

In providing Lagos residents with better power infrastructure, the bill aims to address long-standing challenges in electricity supply and stimulate economic growth.

Under the new law, the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission has been established to oversee electricity market operations, set tariffs, and monitor compliance. 

Again, the Lagos State Electrification Agency has been tasked with expanding power access in underserved areas and promoting off-grid solutions.

A central feature of the legislation is the Lagos Electrification Fund, designed to finance grid expansion and off-grid projects, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. 

The Integrated Electricity Policy outlined in the law emphasises renewable energy, energy efficiency, and a roadmap for reducing carbon emissions.

Another important element is the creation of an Independent System Operator to manage grid operations and a Power Enforcement Unit to address electricity theft, ensuring transparency and accountability in the power sector.

With these reforms, Lagos aims to improve electricity reliability, attract investment, and thrive in Nigeria’s energy transition. 

The policy is anticipated to strengthen the state’s economy, boost industrial productivity, and improve the quality of life for its residents by providing consistent and sustainable energy solutions.

Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that the legislation would serve as a model for other states, reiterating Lagos’ focus on innovative solutions to tackle energy challenges.