The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its dedication to environmental resilience by fostering collaboration and innovation for sustainability.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu made this commitment at the Art Exhibition and Symposium titled ‘The Intersecting Worlds of Climate Change, Mangrove, and Art’, held at the Nigerian Conservation Foundation in Lekki on Thursday.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the event as a fusion of culture, creativity, and commitment in tackling climate change.
He emphasised that mangroves, though often overlooked, play a crucial role in protecting coastal areas from erosion and flood surges while supporting local fisheries and livelihoods.
Beyond their ecological benefits, the governor noted that mangroves help combat global warming by storing large amounts of carbon dioxide.
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“Protecting these ecosystems is not just about conserving biodiversity but securing our future,” he stated, urging continued collaboration to build a more resilient Lagos.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by the Special Adviser to the President on NEC and Climate Change, Rukayat El-Rifai, underscored the interconnectedness of climate change policy, mangrove conservation, and artistic expression.
He stressed that leveraging these connections could be key to addressing climate challenges.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, described the event as a critical step toward raising awareness and driving action.
He pointed out that Lagos, with its extensive coastline and mangrove forests, must act decisively against deforestation, pollution, and urbanization threats.
“We cannot afford to stand by while our natural defenses disappear. Our government remains committed to mangrove conservation, ensuring these ecosystems continue to protect our communities and serve as a lasting legacy,” Wahab said.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Executive Secretary, Simon Stiell, stressed the need for inclusive climate policies, highlighting the economic opportunities in green growth and sustainable development.
He noted that countries investing in clean energy and human capital would be the biggest beneficiaries of the $2 trillion global clean energy boom.
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The event ended with a media briefing, where key stakeholders, including representatives from the UNFCCC, Climate Change Council Secretariat, and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, engaged with journalists on climate change initiatives.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation and other stakeholders to drive environmental sustainability efforts.
