Lagos doubles down on coastal protection, climate action

Lagos State has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its coastline and embracing sustainable environmental practices as part of its long-term vision for a climate-resilient future.

The state’s renewed stance was announced during the recent UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France.

Representatives from the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources outlined a range of measures currently being implemented to combat the growing threats of climate change, particularly in the coastal megacity.

One of the state’s core interventions is the expansion of its flood control infrastructure. Over 76 kilometres of trapezoidal drainage channels have been constructed, alongside the year-round desilting of primary and secondary drains aimed at reducing the risk of flash floods during the rainy season.

In addition, Lagos is transforming its waste management system to align with circular economy principles.

With over 13,000 tonnes of waste generated daily, the state is shifting away from the traditional “pick and dump” model to a system that recycles and repurposes waste into energy and economic opportunities.

A ban on single-use plastics is set to take full effect from July 1, following an 18-month grace period. Styrofoam food containers are already prohibited, and authorities say enforcement efforts will be intensified in the coming weeks.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, emphasized that the government is focused on long-term sustainability. “Lagos is not sitting back. We are building resilient infrastructure and promoting collective responsibility in facing climate challenges,” he said.

The state is also engaging with international partners, including Dutch environmental experts, to design and implement coastal protection solutions such as groynes and seawalls to defend against ocean surges and shoreline erosion.

According to the ministry, these combined efforts reflect Lagos’s broader commitment to securing environmental health, supporting economic growth, and setting a leadership example for other coastal cities facing similar threats.

With these initiatives, Lagos continues to position itself as a forward-thinking city confronting climate change head-onthrough infrastructure, innovation, and international collaboration.