Lagos State government has partnered with the African Development Bank (AfDB) with a view to boosting electrification of the state using the electric cooperative business model.

The partnership, which involves Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC), will start in Ibeju-Lekki. It will pursue community engagement to ensure service quality, cost control and sustainability of supply to promote economic development.

Senior Vice President, National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), U.S.A., Dr. Daniel Waddle, said the steps in the project include defining areas of influence for cooperative service territory, evaluating costs to improve service quality, expanding service to all willing members, and drafting of business plan to illustrate sustainability of the Ibeju-Lekki Electric Coop, among others.

This was disclosed during an interactive session with stakeholders and residents of Ibeju-Lekki held at the secretariat of Lekki Local Council Development Authority (LCDA), tagged: ‘Lagos State Electricity Cooperatives with African Development Bank.”

Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Olalere Odusote, said Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, tasked him to ensure Ibeju-Lekki receives electricity, as some communities have not had supply in the past 15 years.

He said AfDB would shoulder the cost of providing supply but on loan basis. He said beneficiaries are expected to enter into cooperatives for convenient repayment plan through EKEDC.

He said there would be provision of pre-paid metres within a short period to avoid problems associated with estimated billings.

Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Ms. Sholabomi Shasore, disclosed the commitment of the state government to fast track the project and deliver it in good time.

Council Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki, Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, described reliable electricity as key to the economic goal of the area. He said: “It has been estimated that Lagos State will require a combined investment of over $3 billion over the next 10 years to meet its economic growth. This can be achieved by how well economic activities are ensured in the state.

“The governor has said the state is open to collaboration and partnership with all development partners including the AfDB, with a view to setting up an enabling environment for its economic vision to thrive.”