BY JUMOKE OWOOLA
Lagos State Government Recommits to Converting Coastal Challenges to Economic, Ecological Advantage
The Lagos State Government has restated its readiness to convert its coastal challenges into economic and ecological strength as it prepares to host the 11th International Climate Change Summit. Speaking at a media briefing, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, said the state is massively investing in coastal defenses, urban greening, flood mitigation, renewable energy, and circular economy models.
"Lagos is one of the world's most vibrant coastal megacities, a hub of creativity, commerce, and culture. Yet, it is also one of the most climate-vulnerable. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and flooding are not distant possibilities; they are daily realities," Wahab said.
He emphasized that the summit will provide a strategic platform for action, where sub-national governments, global development institutions, investors, scientists, and innovators will come together to design real, bankable climate solutions.
"Through the Lagos International Climate Change Summit, we are sending a clear message to the world: Africa is not waiting to be rescued. We are ready to lead," he declared.
The summit, themed "Blue Economy, Green Money: Financing Africa's Coastal Resilience and Ocean Innovation," will spotlight the Blue Economy, harnessing oceans and waterways for sustainable growth; Green Finance, mobilizing capital for renewable energy and waste recycling; Innovation and Youth, empowering the next generation of African climate entrepreneurs; and Partnerships, strengthening cross-sector collaboration for long-term transformation.
Wahab highlighted the success of previous summits, citing the creation of Lagos State Parks and Garden (LASPARK) and the development of the Lagos Climate Resilience Policy. "Lagos is the only state with a Climate Policy in the country," he noted.
The commissioner also expressed appreciation to partners, including Eko Atlantic for embodying the spirit of sustainable urban development and NIMASA for their continued leadership in maritime safety and the blue economy. He also recognized the support of international collaborators, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the African Development Bank (AfDB), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and others.
NIMASA's Deputy Director, Mr. Tuti Hebron, represented the agency's Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, and announced that NIMASA has developed a National Policy on Blue Economy, addressing all aspects of issues dealing with claims in blue economy and legal frameworks.
Eko Atlantic City's Development Director, Mr. Pierre Edde, said the Great Wall of Lagos Engineering Coastal Resilience is designed to protect Victoria Island and Lekki from persistent ocean surge. He spoke through the Communication Director of Eko Atlantic City, Ms. Joanna Fabikun.
The summit will host over 1,200 delegates, including international agency heads, global CEOs, financiers, youth innovators, and researchers, and will take place just ahead of COP30, giving Lagos an opportunity to shape the global conversation on climate change.
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