Lagos: The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable growth and coastal resilience at the 11th Lagos International Climate Change Summit. The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasized the need for a sustainable future leveraging the city’s ocean resources during the opening ceremony of the summit.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’s unique position as a city built on water, energy, and entrepreneurship. He stressed the importance of maintaining this foundation for future generations. The governor cited the Great Wall of Lagos as a transformative project that turned a former ocean surge zone into an area of economic value and safety, demonstrating the state’s innovative spirit.
Sanwo-Olu reiterated Lagos’s commitment to leading Africa and the global community in fostering a clean climate and a vibrant blue economy, which he described as essential for the planet. In his welcome address, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, emphasized the state’s determination to unlock sustainable financing and pioneer solutions to safeguard the ocean and strengthen coastal communities.
Wahab discussed ongoing initiatives, such as the upcoming biogas facility at the Ikosi-Isheri Fruit Market, which will convert fruit waste into clean energy and natural fertilizer. He also mentioned the forthcoming Climate Investment Opportunities Diagnostic, a policy document aimed at linking environmental goals with actionable investment pathways. Wahab noted that Lagos had been recognized as the top-performing state in climate governance for the second consecutive year.
The event also featured the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola, represented by Dr Dayo Mobereola. He discussed federal reforms to enhance maritime security and promote waste-to-wealth initiatives. Representatives from Osun State and international partners from Britain, China, and Germany reaffirmed their commitment to advancing Africa’s blue economy and driving green growth.