The Lagos State Government has introduced an innovative initiative called “Art for Climate Change” with the aim of raising awareness about climate change and mobilizing action through artistic expression, particularly involving the youth.
This initiative is part of the preparations leading up to the COP28 Conference, where climate change issues will be discussed and addressed on a global scale.
Mr. Omobolaji Gaji, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources in Lagos State, announced the launch of this initiative during a press briefing at the Secretariat in Alausa on Friday.
He explained that “Art for Climate Change” is a collaborative effort between the Creative Youth Community Development Initiative – Solution17 for Climate Action and New York University, Abu Dhabi.
“The initiative stems from the Memorandum of Understanding signed between New York University Abu Dhabi and COP28 UAE. Its primary goal is to enhance the role of higher education institutions in knowledge-sharing, climate action, and youth engagement as part of the preparations for the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28),” stated Gaji.
Related Posts
He further elaborated that the initiative would actively involve artists from Lagos who will collaborate with technology innovators, experts from relevant fields, and students from NYU Abu Dhabi and the Universities Climate Network UAE. Together, they will co-create innovative solutions addressing various thematic areas relevant to COP28, and these solutions will be expressed through art.
Gaji emphasized the multifaceted approach of the “Art for Climate Change” project, stating, “Today, Lagos State Government and Solution 17 are proud to launch the Art for Climate Change project, initiating a series of events, including a co-creation innovation hub, live marathon painting events, dialogue series, and exhibitions.”
He added, “These artworks and the issues they represent will be communicated through powerful storytelling mediums such as documentaries, film production, music, and exhibitions. This is aimed at generating awareness and contributing to the formulation of policies and decision-making during COP28 and beyond.”
The Permanent Secretary announced that these events will be conducted periodically leading up to the commencement of the COP28 conference scheduled for November 2023.
“It is our collective hope that this initiative will stimulate conversations about the pivotal role of art, culture, and citizen engagement in addressing global challenges and shaping policies,” Gaji concluded.
