Lagos focused on addressing critical environmental challenges and advancing sustainable initiatives
Among the various stakeholders involved in the Lagos city project, there is a strong sense of anticipation as the state embarks on a transformative journey to create a more resilient and sustainable city. This initiative aims to advance sustainable development, protect the environment, and promote social responsibility.
Like other emerging megacities around the world, Lagos faces significant challenges related to environmental issues, housing, living conditions, and ethical practices. The city is grappling with increasing destitution and adverse climatic conditions such as flooding, which have become more pressing in recent times.
To address these challenges, the Office of the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) has scheduled the second week of September 2024 for a sustainable summit. This event will be organized in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and the Lagos State Government Safety Commission.
Oreoluwa Finnih, the Special Adviser on SDG, announced during a recent press conference that the summit, themed "Building a Resilient and Sustainable Lagos," will focus on five key areas aimed at paving the way for a sustainable Lagos.
The summit will highlight the government's commitment to sustainability by showcasing strategic initiatives and policies that underscore its dedication to sustainable development. “We will concentrate on community engagement and inclusion to foster social cohesion by ensuring equitable participation in sustainability efforts. Additionally, we will emphasize ethical business practices and social impact,” Finnih explained, noting that the state is committed to promoting fair labor standards and community-driven initiatives that generate positive social outcomes.
The summit will also address sustainable finance, encouraging investments in projects that support the SDGs and integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria into financial decision-making. Moreover, discussions will cover sustainable supply chains, focusing on building resilient networks that support responsible waste management, local sourcing, and ethical labor practices.
Finnih stressed the importance of collective action for a sustainable future, stating, “We are at a pivotal moment, and the choices we make today will shape the Lagos of tomorrow. We must innovate, adapt, and lead the charge towards a resilient and sustainable city.”
She assured that the summit would not be merely a platform for dialogue but also a catalyst for decisive actions that will shape the future of the city. The theme, "Building a Resilient and Sustainable Lagos," serves as both a call to action and a roadmap guiding the state government's efforts to create a city that is prosperous, equitable, and environmentally responsible.
“As the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, I am deeply committed to addressing critical environmental challenges and advancing sustainable initiatives. We will explore the government's unwavering commitment to sustainability, reflected in every policy we implement and every initiative we launch.
We will emphasize the importance of community engagement and inclusion, recognizing that a sustainable future must be built by all, regardless of social standing. We will advocate for ethical business practices and social impact, understanding that our economic growth must align with our moral and social responsibilities. Additionally, we will drive discussions on sustainable finance, acknowledging that the investments we make today will shape the Lagos of tomorrow,” she assured.