HELEN OJI writes on the vital role mangroves play in mitigating climate change and a potential for raising awareness, as well as to inspire action.
Stakeholders in the environment sector gathered recently at a symposium to explored the intersection of climate change, mangroves, and art, highlighting the vital role mangroves play in mitigating climate change and the art to raise awareness and inspire action.
The symposium on climate change was organised by the Climate Change Council of Nigeria Secretariat and the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources.
The programme also acknowledged the increasing threats to mangroves from deforestation, pollution, and rapid urbanization. It emphasized the importance of mangrove conservation, recognizing that these ecosystems act as protective barriers against coastal erosion, absorb carbon emissions, and provide habitats for diverse marine life.
Combating the menace
The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, said Nigeria remains committed in combating the menace and profound solutions to global climate change challenges.
Shettima, who was represented by the Special Adviser to the President on National Economic Council and Climate Change, Mrs. Rukayat El-Rufai, noted that all hands must be on deck to address the issue. It was themeed: “Intersecting Works of Climate Change, Mangrove, and Art,”.
“Climate change is not a distant threat; it is our lived reality. Each of you in this room, whether you craft policy or canvas, invest capital or work with communities, have witnessed its impacts, and felt the urgency. We can no longer afford to work in silos.
“That is why this symposium’s theme is so timely. It calls on us to think outside the box and work together in new ways.
He said: I stand before you not just as a public official, but as a fellow citizen who worries about the world, we will leave for future generations.
Shettima said, “I am convinced that by fusing our knowledge, our creativity, and our determination, we can turn that worry into hope and that hope into action,”.
He stressed the need for a global solution to tackle climate change challenges for economic growth and development.
“The climate crisis knew no borders, a flood in Lagos, or a hurricane in the Caribbean, a drought in the Horn of Africa will affect all.
“No country, no matter how powerful, is immune; this challenge demands a global solution.
The VP emphasized “that if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” says a popular proverb. Indeed, to go far and secure a livable planet, we must go together.
“Despite the geopolitic tensions, economic slowdowns, resurgence of climate scepticism and setback in international climate commitments, Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering global collaboration to combat climate change,”.
He added that in spite of these setbacks, Nigeria believed in international collaboration and shared responsibility.
“We are a proud party to the Paris Agreement and have consistently advocated for ambitious climate action on the world stage.
“We know that every nation must do its fair share, and those with greater resources and historical emissions must support those with fewer. Climate justice and equity must be our guiding principles.
“When developed countries fulfil their pledges to provide climate finance and technology transfer, they are investing in a safer future for all of humanity, including themselves,” he said.
Clean energy
The Executive Secretary, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Mr Simon Stiell, acknowledged that Nigeria was blessed with natural resources vital for clean energy.
Mr stiell stated that it is abundantly clear now that the countries who will seize the biggest benefits of the two trillion dollars global boom in clean energy are those that invest in their people and their strengths.
“A new, strong national climate plan or Nationally Determined Contribution under the Paris Agreement can supercharge the Nigerian economy, with green growth and sustainable development.
“Clean energy can power up your population, providing clean access for countless millions.
“Investing in green buildings, clean infrastructure, and domestic manufacturing can drive economic growth,” he said.
Stiell noted that sustainable agriculture was important for food security.
“Clean energy and sustainable agriculture will create jobs, attract foreign investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s global and regional competitiveness.
“With 90% of Nigerians employed in micro, small, and medium enterprises, the ripple effects of green growth will be felt in every community and economy,” he explained.
“Just as clean energy presents a massive opportunity, the risks and costs of climate inaction are already being felt.
“From floods in the south to droughts and desertification in the north, climate impacts are already carving up to five per cent of the GDP,” he said.
He said that there was much work ahead, to ensure the people of Nigeria, and all countries share in the monumental benefits of bold climate action.
“That is why it is so essential that people across Nigerian society have a chance to contribute to new national climate plans, to implement and benefit from them.
“UN Climate Change will be working with all of you and all other nations every step of the way,” he said.
Environmental resilience
Also speaking, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, while welcoming Stiell to Nigeria, noted that his presence “reaffirms our shared commitment to fostering environmental resilience through collaboration and innovation”.
Represented by Secretary to Lagos State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, he said: “Our mangroves nature’s silent protectors serve as vital barriers against coastal erosion, carbon sinks that purify our air, and thriving ecosystems that sustain biodiversity and livelihoods. Yet these invaluable resources face mounting threats from urbanization, pollution, and deforestation.
“The event represents a fusion of culture, creativity, and commitment to addressing one of the most urgent challenges of our time: climate change. Through art, we witness a powerful medium for advocacy a means to highlight the fragility of our natural ecosystems while inspiring action.
“Mangrove forests are among nature’s most underappreciated ecosystems. In Lagos State, they act as natural barriers against coastal erosion and flood surges while supporting local fisheries and providing livelihoods for many communities. Beyond their ecological services, mangroves play a critical role in combating global warming by storing vast amounts of carbon dioxide.
“Protecting mangroves is not just about conserving biodiversity; it is about safeguarding our future. By preserving these ecosystems, we strengthen our defenses against climate threats while honoring an essential part of our heritage.
“As one of Africa’s fastest-growing megacities, Lagos faces the dual challenge of urban expansion and environmental conservation.
According to him, the administration has implemented policies that balance development with sustainability. Initiatives such as the Lagos Climate Action Plan and the Lagos Resilient Strategy outline clear goals for adaptation and mitigation while prioritizing green infrastructure and renewable energy.
Sanwo-Olu noted that at the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit last year, we launched the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan (LCARP). This comprehensive framework integrates advanced analytics for risk assessment and stakeholder engagement a critical step toward fortifying Lagos against climate vulnerabilities,”.
Mangrove conservation
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Lagos State, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, in his remarks, said the event represented a crucial step in the ongoing efforts to raise awareness, and foster collaboration towards environmental sustainability in Lagos State.
“The theme is particularly relevant to Lagos State, a coastal megacity on the frontline of climate change impacts.
He emphasized that as a city defined by its waterways, with an extensive coastline and an intricate network of lagoons and rivers, Lagos is home to mangrove forests that serve as a natural treasure.
Wahab said these ecosystems act as protective barriers against coastal erosion, absorb carbon emissions, and provide habitats for diverse marine life.
“These invaluable ecosystems face increasing threats from deforestation, pollution, and rapid urbanisation,”.
He added that the degradation of the mangroves exacerbated these challenges.
“We cannot afford to stand by while our natural defences disappear.
“This is why the Lagos State Government is committed to mangrove conservation, ensuring they remain a shield for our communities and a legacy for future generations.
“We remain committed to mangrove conservation, ensuring these ecosystems continue to shield our communities and serve as a lasting legacy for future generations,” he stressed.
Wahab states that the Lagos State Government would remain unwavering in its commitment to tackling climate change and preserving the natural environment.
“Our policies, including the Lagos Climate Action Plan, the Lagos State Climate Risk Assessment, and most recently, the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan, all of which prioritise ecosystem preservation and sustainability.
“It is also instructive to state that the state government has initiated mangrove restoration and afforestation programme, recognising the essential role these ecosystems play in stabilising our coastal regions.
“We will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders local communities, environmental organisations, and international stakeholders to develop innovative solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change,” he said.