Table of Contents
- Lagos State's Commitment to Climate Action
- The 11th Lagos State International Climate Change Summit
- Strategic Investments in Sustainability
- Resilience and Innovation in Lagos
- Lagos Climate Resilience Policy
- Looking Ahead to the 2025 Summit
- Partnerships for Sustainable Development
- Advancing the Blue Economy
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its goal to establish the state as the climate capital of Africa, committing to transform its coastal and environmental challenges into avenues for economic growth, innovation, and sustainability.
This pledge was reiterated as the state prepares to host the 11th Lagos State International Climate Change Summit, a key event that highlights Lagos’ leadership in climate action and urban resilience across the continent.
During a media briefing at the Eko Atlantic Corporate Office in Victoria Island, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, stated that the state is making strategic investments in coastal defenses, flood control, renewable energy, and circular economy models that could serve as blueprints for other African cities.
“Through the Lagos International Climate Change Summit, we are sending a clear message to the world: Africa is not waiting to be rescued. We are ready to lead,” Wahab asserted.
He described Lagos as a living testament to resilience, creativity, and innovation, emphasizing that the government is dedicated to fostering a future where the environment, economy, and communities coexist sustainably.
Wahab also pointed out that Lagos, as one of the world’s most dynamic coastal megacities, has been at the forefront of climate adaptation and environmental innovation. He highlighted the establishment of the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency, LASPARK, as a significant outcome of previous summits, aimed at enhancing urban greening and ecological balance.
According to him, this year’s summit will also highlight the Lagos Climate Resilience Policy, a groundbreaking document that outlines comprehensive strategies for climate mitigation and adaptation.
“Lagos is the only state in Nigeria with a Climate Policy,” he noted.
The Commissioner further explained that the 2025 Summit will extend beyond discussions, acting as a strategic platform for actionable climate solutions, uniting sub-national governments, development partners, investors, scientists, and innovators to create viable, bankable climate projects.
He revealed that more than 1,200 delegates, including global CEOs, financiers, youth innovators, researchers, and leaders of international agencies, are expected to participate under the theme: “Financing the Future of Resilience in Africa.”
Wahab expressed gratitude to the summit’s partners, particularly Eko Atlantic for its role in promoting sustainable urban development, and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for its ongoing leadership in the blue economy and maritime safety.
Also addressing the gathering, the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, represented by the agency’s Deputy Director, Mr. Tuti Hebron, praised the Lagos State Government’s proactive environmental initiatives. He shared that NIMASA has developed a National Policy on Blue Economy, which will establish a solid legal and operational framework for sustainable marine resource management.
He urged other states to follow Lagos’ example by investing in coastal tourism and marine innovation, citing the recent E1 Electric Boat Race as a testament to Lagos’ growing influence in sustainable maritime activities.
What is the primary goal of the Lagos State Government regarding climate action?
The primary goal is to position Lagos as the climate capital of Africa by transforming environmental challenges into opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and sustainability.
What is the significance of the Lagos State International Climate Change Summit?
The summit serves as a flagship event demonstrating Lagos’ leadership in climate action and urban resilience, bringing together various stakeholders to discuss actionable climate solutions.
What initiatives are being implemented in Lagos to address climate change?
Lagos is investing in coastal defenses, flood control, renewable energy, and circular economy models, as well as establishing agencies like LASPARK to promote urban greening and ecological balance.
