The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) has urged the Lagos State Government to strengthen its climate response through carbon budgeting, expanded wetland protection, stricter enforcement of Environmental Impact Assessment requirements and greater investment in renewable energy, public transport and green infrastructure.

The call was made by the Chairman of the NCF National Executive Council, Hon. Justice Raliat Adebiyi, during the foundation’s 20th annual Walk for Nature at Lagos State University, Ojo. Held in partnership with the Lagos State Government, the event was themed “Inspired for Climate Action: Lagos Must Listen, Our Action Matters.”

Adebiyi said environmental protection must become a central consideration in the state’s development decisions, stressing that climate action requires more than public awareness. She called for stronger policies, enforcement of existing environmental regulations and increased investment in natural systems that shield communities from climate-related threats.

She also urged the state to fully domesticate and implement the Climate Change Act 2021 at the subnational level, introduce carbon budgeting for Lagos and incorporate nature-based solutions into its climate adaptation and drainage master plans.

“Climate action must be fully integrated into land-use planning, flood management, urban development and environmental governance. What is required now is execution,” she said.

Adebiyi identified wetlands, forests, waterways and green spaces as critical to Lagos’ environmental resilience, warning that their destruction undermines natural systems that protect communities from climate hazards.

“Lagos is at the frontline of Nigeria’s climate vulnerability. A city surrounded by water yet increasingly threatened by it. Rising sea levels, annual flooding, extreme heat and the steady loss of wetlands are putting our communities, our livelihoods and our future at risk,” she said.

She further called on businesses to embed environmental responsibility in investment decisions, supply chains, production processes and waste management, rather than confining their commitments to sustainability reports and environmental, social and governance (ESG) statements.

Universities, she said, should harness research and innovation to develop practical responses to environmental challenges. She also encouraged students to participate in community initiatives, promote responsible consumption and hold institutions accountable through informed advocacy.

Representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the event, Tajudeen Gaji, Permanent Secretary in the Office of Environmental Services, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, said development projects must comply with environmental regulations and drainage requirements.

He emphasised the role of wetlands and mangroves as natural barriers against flooding and coastal erosion, noting that Lagos’ coastal geography, dense population and rapid urban growth make ecosystem protection especially important.

Gaji said communities suffer the consequences when wetlands are reclaimed or built over because the loss of these natural spaces leaves rainwater with fewer places to drain.

Sanwo-Olu also identified plastic pollution and obstructed drainage channels as major environmental challenges in the state. According to him, Lagos generates approximately 13,000 tonnes of waste daily, with plastics accounting for about 15 per cent.

He said much of the plastic waste finds its way into drains, canals and the lagoon before returning to streets as floodwater during the rainy season.

The governor said his administration was continuing to invest in drainage infrastructure, mangrove restoration, tree planting and park development to improve the state’s capacity to withstand flooding and extreme heat.

He added that the government had enforced its ban on Styrofoam and other single-use plastics since July 1, 2025, imposing sanctions on outlets found storing, selling or distributing prohibited products. The state was also collaborating with innovators to develop sustainable alternatives while expanding environmental education in schools and communities.

Sanwo-Olu urged residents to prevent refuse from entering drains, reduce their use of single-use plastics and avoid construction on drainage channels and wetlands. He stressed that protecting the environment requires active participation from individuals and communities.

Earlier, Gaji said Lagos had stepped up its tree-planting campaign in 2026, with a target of 20,000 trees to improve air quality, reduce urban heat, conserve biodiversity and strengthen climate resilience.

He added that the state was promoting waste recovery and recycling to curb indiscriminate disposal and protect drainage channels, waterways and wetlands.

Gaji described wetlands as vital to climate resilience, livelihoods, public health and sustainable development, explaining that they regulate water, store carbon, sustain biodiversity and protect vulnerable coastal communities.

Source: The Guardian