…pledges regional collaboration on coastal protection
By Sodiq Adelakun
Lagos State has declared its readiness to lead Africa’s coastal resilience efforts through sustainable innovation and climate financing, reaffirming its commitment to transform the challenges of ocean vulnerability into opportunities for growth and environmental stability.
The Honourable Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, made this known on Thursday during the opening of the 11th Lagos International Climate Change Summit (LICCS) held at the Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Speaking on the theme, “Blue Economy, Green Money: Financing Africa’s Coastal Resilience and Ocean Innovation,” Wahab said Lagos was ready for investment, innovation, and long-term sustainability in its ocean and coastal management efforts.
“We are gathered here to send a clear message to the world that Lagos is ready — ready to lead in the sustainable management of its ocean and coastal resources; ready for investment; ready for innovation; and ready to build resilience that benefits all our people,” he declared.
Wahab revealed that Lagos has consistently led sub-national climate action in Nigeria, ranking the top-performing state in climate governance for the second consecutive year, according to the 2025 Subnational Climate Governance Performance Rating.
He further announced that the state government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, will in December commission a biogas facility at Ikosi-Isheri Fruit Market in partnership with C40 Climate Global Leadership Group.
The facility will convert 500 kilograms of fruit waste daily into clean energy for streetlights, cooking, and power supply — a project he described as “a circular system that turns waste into wealth.”
“Lagos isn’t just talking about climate ambition — we are taking concrete steps to bring it to life,” the commissioner said.
He also unveiled the “Climate Investment Opportunities Diagnostic,” a new policy document designed to bridge the gap between climate ambition and sustainable financing for Lagos’ low-carbon future.
According to Wahab, Lagos recognizes that its environmental challenges transcend borders, urging other coastal African cities to collaborate in sharing data, expertise, and resources for collective resilience.
“The future of our coastlines depends on the decisions we make today,” he added.
The summit brought together government leaders, international partners, investors, and climate experts to discuss innovative funding models for coastal sustainability and ocean-based economic development.
