Lagos Governor launches carbon registry, calls for public-private collaboration 

NIGERIA – Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has launched the Lagos State Carbon Registry in a move aimed at combating climate change and promote environmental sustainability. 

The announcement was made during the inaugural Lagos Sustainability Summit, themed “Building a Resilient and Sustainable Lagos,” held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island. 

The Carbon Registry aims to track and manage the state’s carbon emissions, serving as a vital tool in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering sustainable practices across the region.  

Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, called for stronger collaboration between the private sector, civil society, and government to create the infrastructure necessary to transform Lagos into a truly sustainable city. 

“This global shift toward sustainability is not just a trend but the defining challenge of our age,” Sanwo-Olu emphasized. He called on stakeholders to take bold and visionary steps to not only grow the economy but also protect the environment and uplift residents. 

“Together, we can create a city that is not only prosperous but also sustainable for generations to come,” he added.  

A cornerstone of this vision is the Lagos Climate Action Plan, which sets ambitious targets for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. 

This initiative is part of the administration’s broader agenda to drive green projects, mobilize resources, and foster sustainable growth without compromising the well-being of the environment or residents. 

“We are making systemic changes to build a greener, smarter Lagos,” Sanwo-Olu said, highlighting his administration’s efforts to create public spaces that promote inclusivity, safety, and social interaction. 

He further pledged that all Lagos residents, regardless of income or background, will have access to the necessary resources and opportunities to thrive. 

Speaking at the summit, Minister of State for Environment Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako noted that everyday activities such as production, transportation, and recreation are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. 

He stressed the need to decouple environmental harm from economic growth by adopting sustainable development practices. Salako referenced the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act, which mandates public and private sectors to protect natural resources and mitigate the effects of climate change.  

Earlier, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, reaffirmed the commitment of the Office of Sustainable Development Goals (OSDG) to align its activities with the global SDGs. 

She highlighted that the office is spearheading initiatives to accelerate the attainment of the 17 SDGs, positioning Lagos as a leader in sustainability efforts. 

“The OSDG’s mandate has evolved to become the principal SDG coordinator in Lagos, championing initiatives that secure a sustainable and resilient future for all,” Finnih concluded. 

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