As part of efforts to reduce gas emission and tackle climate change, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu today launched the Lagos State Carbon Registry with a call on both the private sector, civil society, and government to collaborate in building systems and infrastructure that will enable the state to evolve as a true sustainable city.
The Carbon Registry is aimed at tracking and managing the State’s carbon emissions, offering a critical tool for mitigating climate change and fostering environmental sustainability.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Lagos Sustainability Summit Organized by the Office of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with the theme “Building a Resilient and Sustainable Lagos,” held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, Sanwo-Olu who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat stated that the global shift toward sustainability is not just a trend, it is the defining challenge of the new age, noting that partnership and collective responses to climate change, poverty, and inequality will shape the future of Lagos, Nigeria, and the world at large.
According to him, “Now is the time for bold, visionary thinking. We must seize the chance to build a Lagos that is resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive. We must embrace solutions that not only grow our economy but also protect our environment and uplift our people. Together, we can create a city that is not only prosperous but also sustainable for generations to come.”
He added that Lagos is working across borders to address global challenges such as pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. “Our city’s sustainability efforts are not just local; they are part of a broader global mission to protect people and the planet,” he added.
Speaking further, the governor emphasized that sustainability is not just about the environment; but about creating a city that works for everyone; adding that the future his administration envisions for Lagos is one where no one is left behind.
Sanwo-Olu underscored his government’s recognition of the critical role sustainability and resilience play in shaping the future, as Lagos is more than just a city; it is a beacon of innovation, culture, and economic potential.
He stated that sustainability has always been central to his administration’s developmental agenda and the Lagos Climate Action Plan sets ambitious targets to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, which will mobilize resources towards green projects.
In his words, “We are driving the systemic changes needed to foster sustainable growth without compromising our environment or the well-being of our people. it is a testament to our commitment to building a greener, smarter Lagos.”
Sanwo-Olu also stressed that his administration is dedicated to creating public spaces and services that promote social interaction, safety, and inclusivity. He noted that his government is committed to ensuring that all residents, regardless of income or background, have access to the resources and opportunities that will enable them to thrive.
In his goodwill message, Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako noted that the production of goods and services, transportation, recreation, and everyday activities are the major drivers of global warming through the emission of greenhouse gases.
Dr. Salako said to achieve sustainable development, “we must decouple environmental pressure from economic growth and development. We must provide a mechanism for achieving maximum developmental gains with minimal environmental pains and synchronize our development agenda in harmony with nature.”
The Minister stressed that the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act CAP E12 Law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2004 made) mandatory for both public and private sectors for all development projects to ensure protection of natural resources and ecosystems, promote sustainable use of resources, control pollution, and mitigate climate change effects.
In his keynote address, the Executive Secretary\Chief Executive Officer, Financial Reporting Council (FRC) of Nigeria, Dr. Rabiu Olowo enjoined Nigerians to commit to integrating the SDG goals into every facet of their financial strategies. He stated that by doing so, they are not only ensuring their success but also contributing to a global movement towards a more sustainable and equitable world.
“The task of aligning financial strategies with the Sustainable Development Goals is not just about meeting regulatory requirements or enhancing corporate reputation. It is about driving meaningful change and contributing to a future where economic growth, social equity, and environmental stewardship go hand in hand,” Olowo concluded.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, stated that the Office of Sustainable Development Goals (OSDG) has pooled its resources, expertise, and resolve together to align its activities with the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensure that the vision of a sustainable and resilient Lagos becomes a reality.
Dr, Finnih noted that the office commitment is not merely superficial; it is demonstrated through the integrated policies, strategic partnerships, and concerted efforts that we are witnessing.
She added that “The OSDG’s mandate has evolved to lead as the principal SDG coordinator in Lagos by championing initiatives that accelerate the attainment of the 17 goals. For us, sustainability is the practice of meeting today’s needs without compromising the future generation’s ability to meet their own needs.”
