The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has said that it is time for both town and gown to form a formidable alliance and steer the environmental consciousness of the nation in the right direction to tackle environmental challenges appropriately.
 
Speaking yesterday at the 58th yearly conference of The Science Association of Nigeria (SAN), themed ‘Science, Coastal Cities, Public Health and Social Equity In The Blue Economy,’ Wahab said gone are the days when the gown and the town pretended that working harmoniously was optional.
 
“It is not a choice; it is a necessity. The future of our environment and the sustainability of the human race depend on how well we build partnerships that transcend sectors and borders.

It is time for both town and gown to form a formidable alliance and steer the environmental consciousness of the nation in the right direction.”
   
Wahab noted that the fulcrum of this year’s theme is the blue economy.

It represents far more than oceans, ports, and fisheries, stating that it embodies a vision of sustainable economic growth driven by our waterbody ecosystems, while ensuring environmental sustainability and social inclusion.
 
“To achieve this, science must remain the foundation of every decision we make regarding our oceans and coastal environments. Scientific research enables us to understand changing sea levels, coastal erosion patterns, ocean temperatures, and marine ecosystems.
 
“Above all, it provides the evidence necessary for governments to design policies and prepare for future risks.
 
“For instance, Lagos is one of Africa’s largest coastal cities and among the continent’s most important economic centres”.

Lagos is bordered only by Ogun State and a 187 km coastline, making it susceptible to diverse environmental challenges.
 
“We must also consider Lagos’ low-lying geography and growing population, which make it highly vulnerable to coastal flooding and sea-level rise.
 
“The choices we make today regarding urban planning, infrastructure investment, and ecosystem protection will determine the resilience of future generations.”
 
On his part, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Omobolaji Jaji, said the theme of this year’s conference is both timely and highly relevant.
 
He noted that as Africa’s foremost coastal megacity, Lagos faces the realities of rapid urbanisation, climate change, environmental degradation, pollution, and increasing public health challenges.