Lagos State Government has stressed the need to aggressively develop and promote the use of clean, renewable, and sustainable energy through the installation of solar power systems in its facilities.

In his address at the unveiling of a 150 KVA Outdoor Solar System for Radio Lagos and Eko FM, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, said the need for adequate and sustainable electricity power supply informed the installation of the solar system in the station.

Omotoso, flanked by his Energy and Mineral Resources counterpart, Abiodun Ogunleye, and the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Information and Strategy, Lanre Bajulaiye, said: “Solar is the way to go. I discovered that we were spending about N600 to N800 million per month to fuel generators that power the street lights.”

“The government said it didn’t make any sense, and that it was not sustainable. At that point, we started considering how to try solar. I am very happy today that it’s not just that we are seeing that it’s working, we are seeing that it’s a transformation, a total transformation to renewable energy, a total transformation to healthy source of energy, and transformation to a system that is simple, that is safe, and that is secure, that is healthy, and that is progressive.”

In his opening address, General Manager of Radio Lagos/Eko FM, Jide Lawal, said the radio stations had been committed to discharging their duties of providing listeners with reliable, quality information, entertainment, and community engagement round the clock.

“But we all know that the challenge of power supply in our country has often tested our resilience. Today, I say with pride and with the immense support of the governor and by extension that of the commissioners and the permanent secretary that that chapter has changed.

“With the installation of this state-of-the-art solar power system, we are stepping into a new era of energy independence, sustainability, and uninterrupted service to our beloved listeners. This solar power project is more than just panels and batteries. It is a bold statement of dedication to innovation, environmental responsibility and excellence in broadcasting. From this moment, Radio Lagos/Eko FM will be powered by clean, renewable energy, thereby reducing our carbon footprint and lowering operational costs.”

He, however, commended the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who he said, believed in the vision and made it a reality.