Lagos governor’s wife urges youths to lead climate action
Lagos State governor’s wife, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has urged young people to become ambassadors of environmental sustainability through eco-friendly lifestyles and climate action.
She gave the charge on Friday in a goodwill message at the 53rd World Environment Day celebration organised by Trinity University, Yaba.
Represented by Mrs Tawakalitu Toriola of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), she described youths as key stakeholders in building a sustainable future.
She encouraged them to reduce waste, conserve energy, plant trees, support environmental research and use technology to address climate change.
“You are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; you are critical stakeholders in shaping the future we desire.
“Climate action requires innovation, creativity and courage, and these qualities abound among young people,” she said.
Speaking on the theme, ‘Global Call for Climate Action’, Sanwo-Olu said the event highlighted the need to protect the environment for future generations.
She noted that climate change continued to impact communities through rising temperatures, flooding, drought, desertification, biodiversity loss and threats to food security.
According to her, Lagos, as a coastal and rapidly growing megacity, faces environmental challenges requiring collective action and innovative solutions.
She identified flooding, waste management challenges, coastal erosion and environmental degradation as urgent issues demanding broad collaboration.
Sanwo-Olu said the state government remained committed to sustainability through policies promoting ecosystem protection, renewable energy, climate resilience and improved waste management.
She stressed that environmental and human health were closely connected, adding that clean air, safe water and healthy surroundings were essential.
“The future of our planet cannot be secured by governments alone. Every individual has a role to play.
“Small actions such as proper waste disposal, recycling, reducing plastic consumption, conserving water and supporting sustainable practices can make a significant difference,” she said.
She also urged academic institutions to strengthen environmental awareness through research, innovation, advocacy and community engagement.
In his goodwill message, Dr Babatunde Ajayi, General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), called for stronger collaboration to tackle environmental challenges.
Represented by Mrs Tolulope Adebowale, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Environmental Protection Matters, he stressed the need for coordinated action.
Ajayi said pollution, climate change, environmental degradation and rapid urbanisation required collective efforts to achieve a cleaner and healthier environment.
He reaffirmed LASEPA’s commitment to environmental best practices, regulatory compliance and greater public participation in environmental protection.
Ajayi also underscored the importance of youth involvement in advancing environmental change and building a sustainable future.
He commended Trinity University for providing a platform for dialogue, learning and collaboration on environmental issues.
“Like little drops that make a mighty ocean, our individual efforts can collectively create a positive impact on the environment.
“They can also improve the quality of life for present and future generations,” he said.
Ajayi reiterated that environmental protection remained a shared responsibility and urged stakeholders to embrace sustainable practices.
The event brought together environmental experts, academics, policymakers and students to discuss strategies for tackling climate change and promoting sustainability.