At the forefront of climate action, Lagos State has reiterated its resolve to protect its vulnerable coastline and develop infrastructure resilient to the challenges posed by climate change.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources spokesperson, Kunle Adesina, the state’s Commissioner, Tokunbo Wahab, highlighted Lagos’ exposure to climate threats during his participation at the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice, France.
“Lagos as a coastal state, faces severe climate risks from rising sea levels, extreme rainfall and excessive heat,” Wahab said. He stressed that Lagos is actively responding by “building resilient infrastructure” to confront these realities.
The commissioner detailed ongoing efforts including year-round clearing of drainage channels and the construction of 76 kilometers of trapezoidal drainage systems over two years to reduce flooding.
On waste management, Wahab revealed Lagos’ shift from a pick-and-dump system to a circular economy approach, viewing waste as a valuable resource for energy and wealth creation. He also confirmed the continuation of the styrofoam ban and announced that the ban on single-use plastics will be enforced starting July 1.