By Abbas Nazil
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed that capacity building remains a central strategy in its fight against climate change.
Officials said strengthening knowledge, partnerships and institutional skills is essential for improving climate literacy and driving sustainable development across the state.
The commitment was restated during the Lagos Leadership Masterclass on Climate Governance held in Victoria Island.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, described climate governance as critical to Lagos’ economic growth, infrastructure resilience and inclusive development.
He explained that the masterclass was designed not only to educate participants but to shape long-term climate responses and improve the city’s future preparedness.
Wahab noted that climate change has shifted from a peripheral environmental issue to a major factor in public policy, financial planning and risk management.
He emphasized that climate impacts now influence how governments plan, allocate resources and deliver services to citizens.
According to him, effective climate governance depends on strong institutions, accountability systems, strategic funding and measurable outcomes.
The commissioner stressed that climate action in Lagos is being treated as an urgent priority rather than a distant goal.
He pointed out that Lagos faces serious risks due to its coastal location, fast population growth and complex infrastructure demands.
These risks include flooding, coastal erosion, heat stress, environmental degradation and rising public health concerns.
In response, the state developed the Lagos State Climate Action Plan to guide mitigation and adaptation efforts across sectors such as energy, transport and waste management.
Wahab said the plan aligns with Nigeria’s national climate commitments and global best practices.
He added that Lagos continues to invest in drainage upgrades, flood control projects, coastal protection, wetland restoration and improved stormwater management.
These efforts are increasingly guided by climate risk assessments and scientific data.
The commissioner revealed that Lagos has emerged as Nigeria’s top-performing state in subnational climate governance rankings for two consecutive years.
In the 2025 assessment, the state reportedly scored 315 out of 360 points.
He attributed the achievement to strong institutional coordination, innovative climate financing and transparent monitoring systems.
Wahab highlighted the state’s issuance of Nigeria’s first subnational green bond as a major milestone.
He stressed that climate action must involve all sectors of government and society.
Special Adviser on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, said the masterclass aims to deepen understanding and strengthen institutional capacity.
He added that Lagos remains committed to climate-responsive policies and partnerships.
Representatives from the British High Commission and C40 Cities also praised Lagos for its leadership in climate action.
They emphasized the importance of city-level collaboration in addressing global climate challenges.
Officials concluded that building capacity and strengthening governance structures remain vital to protecting Lagos from escalating climate risks.