Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos state has called for conservation and protection of environmental resources, saying “as populations grow and industrial activities increase natural resources face unprecedented pressures.”
A statement Friday by president of National Environmental Society (NES), Dr Efegbidiki Okobia, disclosed that the governor stated this in his remarks at the 33rd National Conference and Annual General Meeting of NES tagged: “Eko 2024.”
Represented by his Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, the governor lauded NES for its efforts in environmental protection and sustainable development .
He said “This year’s theme is highly relevant to our current reality because it’s a call to responsibly manage and protect natural resources using advanced technology to achieve sustainable development. Today, the need for Environmental Resource Management, conservation and protection has become urgent and complex as populations grow and industrial activities increase and natural resources face unprecedented pressures, and therefore responsible management of these resources is essential.
“Lagos is 0.1% of the landmarks of the entire country and 10% of the population of the entire country lives here. It’s 3500 square kilometers, 20% of that is water. Therefore, the Lagos state government takes environmental matters very seriously, as it has no choice but to do so, the approach requires strategic planning, intentional stewardship and a commitment to practices that balance human needs with ecosystem health, ensuring these resources remain vibrant and available for future generations.
“Facing the challenges of rapid organization and climate change, we are committed to innovative policies and strategic programs that aim to build a cleaner, greener and more sustainable lakes. Our first major area of focus has been waste management through the Lagos Waste Management Authority, (LAWMA), we have expanded waste collection efforts, launched the Blue Box Recycling Initiative, and implemented Waste to Energy Buildings. These initiatives are reducing our reliance on landfills and fostering a circular economy that benefits both the environment and our people.
“Lagos is also proud to be one of the few African cities with a climate action plan. For those who don’t know, we have also launched action plan in the middle of this year, and it is aimed at achieving net zero emissions by 2050, this ambitious plan includes clean public transportation, renewable energy development and sustainable urban Planning, all of which reflect our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing climate resilience.
“Additionally, we have prioritized greening and reforestation efforts, planting thousand trees annually and encouraging citizens to participate through initiatives like one house one tree program, these efforts are essential for improving air quality and reducing urban heat, both crucial for the well being of our communities. Recognizing our vulnerability to flooding, we have also invested significantly in sustainable drainage systems and shoreline protection to better manage water and reduce flood risks. Equally important is our commitment to fostering a culture of sustainability through public awareness campaigns such as the cleaner Lagos, initiated by engaging residents, schools and businesses in environment stewardship among others”.
On his part, National President, (NES) Dr Efegbidiki Okobia, was aimed at bringing environmental consciousness and sustainable projects into the fore.
He called on all stakeholders work with NES in maintaining its position as the foremost environmental watchdog in Nigeria.
In his remarks, a Professor of Environmental Law, Olanrewaju Fagbohun, tasks stakeholders on massive investment in tertiary institutions of technologies by way of provision of subsidised credit from National Development Banks and other measures will go a long way in improving Nigeria’s technology drive towards attaining sustainable development.
Fagbohun who is also a Former Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU) noted that to make this achievable, the government must provide reliable and affordable electricity, substantial investment in infrastructure, public guarantees of risk insurance incentives that can lower upfront costs.
According to him, the event themed ‘Environmental Resource Management, Conservation and Protection in the Global Emerging, Innovative Technology for Sustainable Development’ reflects the present challenges and opportunities of our time.
