Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is exploring Russia’s energy solutions, including the floating nuclear power model, as well as other technological, digital infrastructure, and solar power options.
The governor pointed out that such floating installations, with a capacity of between 100–200 MW and a lifespan of about 60 years, offer a unique solution for Lagos, where water covers 30 per cent of the land and space is limited.
These interests were expressed during a meeting with Andrey L. Podelyshev, the Russian Ambassador to Nigeria, highlighting the long-standing diplomatic and development partnerships between Nigeria and Russia.
Represented by Deputy Governor Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu announced that the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperative, Trade, and Industry is in direct talks with Russian counterparts, including discussions about the Lekki Free Trade Zone, expressing confidence in Lagos State’s potential partnerships with the Russian government in several sectors, and the state’s openness to productive negotiations.
Nigeria has struggled with power supply and Lagos, with population exceeding 20 million, and with numerous industries has been underserved, prompting a search for an enduring energy solution.
He affirmed the state’s commitment to stronger Nigeria-Russia relations, highlighting Lagos’s key economic, cultural, and historical significance.
Sanwo-Olu admitted that bilateral progress had slowed due to various circumstances but emphasised that both countries’ foreign ministries are actively working to revitalise and reinforce the relationship.
The Governor noted that Lagos, Nigeria’s former capital and current economic hub, contributes 30 per cent of the nation’s GDP, making it a key gateway for international cooperation and investment.
“Nigeria and Russia’s relationships have gone far in many areas. The Ajaokuta Steel Mill in Kogi state and the Oshogbo Steel Mill in Oshogbo were built by the Russians. We have a long history together,” he said.
Podelyshev stated that Russia is ready and interested in establishing a strong economic relationship with Lagos, adding that fostering a closer partnership between the two regions is essential for economic growth and development.
He added that Russia’s capital, Moscow, functions not only as the official political centre, but also as a financial and industrial capital, noting that Moscow and Lagos face similar challenges in urban infrastructure, transport, utilities, and social services.
“In this regard, we must consider it reasonable to explore bilateral ties along the Russia-Lagos or St. Petersburg–Lagos lines, including the establishment of partner-city or sister-city cooperation.”
He highlighted the key areas, including artificial intelligence, education, economy, infrastructure, and power, among others, for the bilateral relationship between the two cities, stressing that the partnership will bring development in different areas in both countries.
Lagos State’s energy needs are vast, being home to millions of people, and the economic hub of Nigeria, the state’s energy supply falls significantly short of its demands. Currently, Lagos requires more than 6,000 MW of electricity to meet its needs, yet the national grid provides less than 2,000 MW at peak periods. This gap in supply has led to regular power outages, impacting businesses and daily life across the state.
This energy shortfall, according to Kamaldeen Balogun, General Manager of the Lagos State Electricity Board has triggered an investment requirement of between $14 billion and $33 billion to address its energy generation needs by 2030, as it works to meet the demands of its expanding population and economy.
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