WELCOME ADDRESS DELIVERED BY TOKUNBO WAHAB, HONOURABLE COMMISSIONER FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER RESOURCES, AT THE 10TH LAGOS STATE INTERNATIONAL CLIMATE CHANGE SUMMIT THEMED “ACCELERATING CLIMATE FINANCE AND CHAMPIONING LOCAL ADAPTATION INITIATIVES,” HELD ON TUESDAY, 11TH JUNE, 2024 AT THE LAGOS CONTINENTAL HOTEL, KOFO ABAYOMI, VICTORIA ISLAND, LAGOS.

PROTOCOL

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.

It is with a profound sense of duty and privilege that I welcome you to the landmark 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit! It is an honour to stand before you as we embark on this pivotal gathering, reflecting on the remarkable journey we’ve undertaken over the past decade.

From the inaugural summit to this momentous occasion, celebrating a decade of climate change summit, we have witnessed a transformative shift in global consciousness towards climate action. Each summit has been a stepping stone, building upon the achievements of the last, propelled forward by the tireless efforts of countless climate heroes.

Over the past decade, the Lagos International Climate Change Summit has served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation in addressing climate-related issues in the State. From promoting renewable energy to implementing sustainable waste management practices, we have made significant strides in integrating Climate Actions in Lagos State Development Investment Opportunities and building resilience in the face of climate variability.

But amidst the celebration of past achievements, we are also confronted with the stark realities of our present situation. According to the global 6th Assessment Report (AR6) of the IPCC report serves as a sobering reminder of the urgency of our situation and need for immediate action.

According to IPCC Chair Hoesung Lee, “Mainstreaming effective and equitable climate action will not only reduce losses and damages for nature and people, it will also provide wider benefits.” This statement underscores the urgent reality that climate change is not waiting for us – we are running out of time.

The solution to this lies in climate resilient development which involves integrating measures to adapt to climate change with actions to reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions in ways that provide wider benefits.

This year’s summit theme – Accelerating Climate Finance and Championing Local Adaptation Initiatives aims to explore ways of attracting climate finance into the adaptation space. To create livable and resilience infrastructure. We are determined to mobilize resources at an unprecedented scale to finance the transition to a low-carbon economy and support those most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

This year’s summit is therefore not just a forum for discussion, but a clarion call for action. We must accelerate our efforts to mobilize climate finance and channel it towards projects that prioritize local adaptation initiatives. This means investing in infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change, empowering communities to develop climate-resilient livelihoods, and enhancing our capacity to respond to climate-related disasters.

Furthermore, we must champion the voices of those most affected by climate change – particularly vulnerable communities who often bear the brunt of its consequences. We must embrace their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives as valuable resource to shape effective adaptation strategies that are grounded in local realities.

As we embark on this three-day journey of deliberation and collaboration, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding our planet for future generations.

Together, we can turn the tide against climate change and build a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for all.

Once again, I extend my warmest welcome to each and every one of you. May our discussions be fruitful, our actions impactful, and our resolve unwavering.

Thank you all!

Igbega Ipinle Eko, Ajumo se wa ni!

Mr. Tokunbo Wahab

Honourable Commissioner

11TH JUNE, 2024