Lagos State says it is prepared to deepen collaboration, drive innovation, and take a leading role in tackling climate change and coastal risks facing the megacity.
The State’s Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made this known while speaking at the Lagos State Governor’s Roundtable themed “Insuring Our Coastlines,” held on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 81) in New York.
Wahab described the roundtable, organised by the Lagos State Government in partnership with the United Nations Global Compact Networks Nigeria and Caribbean, as an opportunity to showcase the state’s readiness and pursue strategic partnerships beyond ordinary policy talk.
“For me, the conversation went beyond policy discussions. It was about positioning Lagos to build stronger partnerships, access innovative financing, and learn from global experiences as we work towards a safer, more resilient and sustainable coastal city,” he said.
The Tuesday, September 22 event, held under the theme “Insuring Our Coastlines: Redefining Influence, Accelerating Action,” focused on strengthening Africa-Caribbean cooperation on sustainable development and climate-risk financing.
Wahab noted that protecting coastal cities like Lagos demands collective effort. “I believe that the challenges facing coastal cities require collective action. By working with international partners, sharing knowledge and embracing innovative solutions, we can better protect our communities, infrastructure and future generations,” he stated, adding that Lagos remains committed to building resilience against sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and flooding.
“Lagos is ready to collaborate, innovate and lead,” he added.
The roundtable drew government officials, international investors, development finance institutions, and private sector stakeholders from across Africa and the Caribbean.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who also attended, spoke on the urgency of securing financing and protective measures for the state’s coastline ahead of future climate shocks.
“Lagos is a coastal city so climate change is not a distant concern for us. We see its effects in the flooding that affects our communities and the pressure it puts on our roads, homes and businesses,” the Governor said. “By working directly with the private sector, we are putting measures in place and building a stronger, more prepared Lagos. Government cannot do this alone. We need strong partnerships and practical solutions that will help secure our economic future.”
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