Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Lagos State’s Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has sounded the alarm on climate change, warning that the state is slowly sinking, mirroring the plight of New York City.
Speaking at a Strategic Management Meeting with MDAs, and stakeholders, organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Hamzat emphasized the urgent need for action to prevent catastrophic natural disasters.
He cited the UK and New York City, where residents are relocating to safer areas due to climate change, cautioning that Lagos faces a similar fate if measures aren’t taken.
Lagos’ vulnerability stems from its 180-kilometer shoreline, surrounded by water, making it prone to submersion.
Hamzat identified extreme heat, climate change, and rising sea levels as the three primary threats to the state.
To mitigate these risks, he advocated for a shift in priorities over the next 20-25 years, focusing on preserving critical areas.
The warning comes as no surprise, given Lagos’ history of flooding and environmental challenges.
Research has shown that the city’s low-lying topography and coastal location increase its susceptibility to climate-related disasters.
Lagos ranks 15th globally in terms of population exposure to coastal flooding.
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, underscored the importance of proactive measures, highlighting the meeting’s aim to reduce government litigations and streamline the justice delivery system.
As Lagos navigates the challenges of climate change, collaboration and swift action will be crucial in safeguarding its future.
