The Lagos State Government has signified its intention to take the lead as the climate capital of Africa and a city that not only adapts to change but also leads it across the continent.
To this end, the state has committed to convert its coastal challenges into economic and ecological strength as it is set to host the 11th International Climate Change Summit.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, stated this during a media briefing in preparation for the 11th Lagos State International Climate Change Summit held at the Eko Atlantic Corporate office, Victoria Island.
According to him, the state was massively investing in coastal defences and urban greening, adding that the state was also investing in flood mitigation, renewable energy, and circular economy models that could serve as templates for other cities across the continent.
“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 noted.
He described Lagos as a living testament to human resilience and ingenuity, reaffirming the state’s unwavering commitment to building a future where the environment, economy, and people thrive together.
Wahab emphasised that Lagos is one of the world’s most vibrant coastal megacities, describing it as a hub of creativity, commerce as well as culture.
He said the creation of Lagos State Parks and Garden (LASPARK) stands as a testament and offspring of the summit held some years back, adding that this year’s summit has also provided an opportunity to market Lagos Climate Resilience Policy.
Wahab claimed that “Lagos is the only state that has the Climate Policy in the country.”
He stressed that the 2025 Summit would not merely be an environmental conference but a strategic platform for action where sub-national governments, global development institutions, investors, scientists, and innovators would come together to design real, bankable climate solutions.
Wahab explained that the 2025 edition would host more than 1,200 delegates including international agency heads, global CEOs, financiers, youth innovators, and researchers, all united by one mission: To finance the future of resilience in Africa.
He expressed appreciation to all the summit’s partners, which include Eko Atlantic, for embodying the spirit of sustainable urban development, and NIMASA, for their continued leadership in maritime safety and the blue economy.
The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, noted that the agency had already developed a National Policy on Blue Economy, saying the document would address all aspects of issues dealing with claims in the blue economy and all legal framework would be included in the policy.
The DG, who spoke through the agency’s Deputy Director, Mr. Tuti Hebron, added that it was high time other states took after Lagos in coastal tourism, using the recently concluded E1 Electric Boat Race as an example.
