The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its dedication on Tuesday to fostering an economic landscape that encourages responsible and sustainable consumer practices.
Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, expressed this commitment during an event organised by the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA).
Represented by Dr Olugbemiga Aina, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment, Ambrose-Medebem emphasised the importance of this year’s World Consumer Rights Day theme, “A Just Transition to a Sustainable Lifestyle.” She noted that it was especially relevant as the world grapples with the challenge of balancing economic growth, environmental sustainability, and consumer welfare.
She underscored the significant influence consumers have in shaping markets, steering business practices, and driving innovation. However, she acknowledged that many consumers still face obstacles such as restricted access to sustainable products, unethical trade practices, and the growing cost of living.
“The past decade has been marked by record-breaking temperatures, escalating pollution levels, and increasing threats to biodiversity.
“It is our shared duty to work towards a fair transition to a sustainable future that includes and benefits everyone,” Ambrose-Medebem remarked.
She pointed out the necessity of ensuring that sustainable choices are both affordable and widely accessible, particularly for vulnerable and low-income consumers.
She further explained that achieving a fair transition means safeguarding consumers’ rights to essential goods and services, such as clean energy, safe food, affordable healthcare, and sustainable housing.
“To accomplish this, businesses must commit to ethical and sustainable operations by embedding environmental responsibility into their supply chains, reducing waste, and providing eco-friendly products at reasonable prices.
“Equally, governments must implement policies that promote green innovation and strengthen consumer protections.
“They must establish regulatory frameworks that encourage ethical business practices while ensuring consumers are shielded from exploitation,” she added.
Ambrose-Medebem outlined the Lagos State Government’s ongoing efforts to enhance consumer protection laws, encourage sustainable business models, and empower consumers through education and awareness campaigns.
She reiterated that building a fair and sustainable future demands collective effort, creativity, and accountability.
“We must place ethical business conduct at the forefront, improve access to sustainable products, enable consumers to make informed choices, and hold producers accountable for their actions,” she concluded.