The Lagos State government, led by Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has provided clarifications regarding the fees for installing solar energy systems in social housing estates. This follows a viral video in which a resident complained about the solar permit fee.
Government Clarification on Solar Permit Fees
The Senior Special Assistant on Media to Governor Sanwo-Olu stated that the Lagos State Government does not charge all residents a permit to install solar power systems for domestic use, contrary to what the video suggested. The fee applies only to residents living in government-owned social housing estates.
According to the governor's aide, residents in these estates are charged administrative fees for alterations, such as installing a solar power system, before any additional development can be permitted. This was clearly outlined in the indemnity document that landlords signed before the government handed over the apartment to them after purchase.
The aide explained that the state government is responsible for maintaining facilities in its social housing estates. There is a public electricity supply system already installed in these estates. Installing an additional power system is considered an alteration to the original design and functionality of the estate building. Any alteration must be approved by the Physical Planning and Survey departments of the Ministry of Housing, ensuring material compliance and post-inspection checks.
Solar power systems are often installed by occupants in shared areas, so the alteration must be approved by the facility manager (the government) before any occupant can proceed.
New Solar Panel Regulation Context
This clarification comes amid Nigeria's proposed solar panel import ban, which has driven a surge in local solar panel production. Recent data shows that local companies have significantly increased production. The Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, noted that Nigeria imported 110 megawatts of solar cells in October 2025, compared to 82 megawatts of finished panels.
Public Reactions and Additional Insights
In a related report, a man shared details of installing two solar panels at his home, providing a breakdown of costs and materials. The post sparked reactions from netizens, highlighting the growing interest in solar energy solutions.
The Lagos State government's clarification aims to address misconceptions and ensure residents understand the regulations governing solar installations in social housing estates.
