LAGOS/Nigeria: Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to climate action and adaptation initiatives at the opening of the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit. Represented by Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change as an immediate threat, not a distant future concern.
At the summit, held at the Continental Hotel in Victoria Island, Sanwo-Olu launched the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan (LCARP) and the Lagos Climate Change Mainstreaming Strategy. These initiatives aim to reduce emissions and enhance the state’s ability to withstand climate impacts.
“Lagos stands at a pivotal point in history,” Sanwo-Olu stated, highlighting the city’s proactive stance in turning climate challenges into opportunities. He noted the state’s successful efforts in constructing the Walls of Lagos, which led to the creation of Lagos Atlantic City and revitalized Victoria Island.
Sanwo-Olu detailed various projects that have improved the city’s environmental footprint, including the multi-modal Transit BRT System, which has reduced carbon emissions from transportation by approximately 15%. The governor also referenced the city’s Climatic Action Plan, established following the 2015 global agreement to limit temperature rise to below 1.5 degrees Celsius.
A landmark moment for Lagos was the unveiling of Nigeria’s first electric car in 2020, with plans to convert 50% of the public transportation fleet to electric vehicles by 2030. The recent launch of the red and blue line rail projects is expected to further decrease vehicular emissions and promote a sustainable, low-carbon future.
Sanwo-Olu announced a partnership with a private waste consortium to build a waste-to-energy plant, which will generate electricity for 40,000 homes by processing 2,250 tonnes of waste daily.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, opened the summit by stressing the importance of integrating adaptive measures with actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. He highlighted the summit’s theme, “Accelerating Climate Finance and Championing Local Adaptation Initiatives,” as a call to attract climate finance and develop resilient infrastructure.
Since its inception, the Lagos International Climate Change Summit has become a crucial platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation in addressing climate-related issues. Wahab noted the significant strides made in renewable energy promotion and sustainable waste management.
Former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) emphasized the human and natural causes of climate change and praised the summit’s role since 2009 in establishing Lagos as a leader in climate initiatives.
As the summit progresses, Wahab underscored the need for immediate action in mobilizing climate finance and supporting local adaptation projects. He called for investment in infrastructure capable of withstanding climate impacts and empowering communities to develop resilient livelihoods.
The 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit stands as a testament to the state’s enduring commitment to combating climate change and fostering a sustainable future for its residents.
