Lagos State is taking bold steps to protect its vulnerable coastline by gazetting its wetlands and mangroves as a strategic solution to the challenges posed by rising sea levels and unchecked urban expansion.
The initiative, announced by Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab, aims to make Lagos a model for sustainable coastal resilience, green finance, and innovation, ahead of the 2025 Lagos International Climate Change Summit.
Climate Resilience Demands Action as Lagos Moves to Gazette Wetlands
Lagos State unveils long-term plans to officially protect wetlands and mangroves, responding to mounting threats from sea-level rise, floods, and human encroachment.
The upcoming Lagos International Climate Change Summit 2025 will rally over 1,200 leaders, scientists, and youth innovators to design solutions for Africa's coastlines.
Key Facts, Trends, and Current Situation
Lagos continues to face growing threats from sea-level rise, excessive rainfall, and coastal erosion, which have consistently been worsened by relentless urban expansion along its 86-kilometre Atlantic coastline. Wetlands and mangroves are shrinking fast.
In response, the government is gazetting vital ecosystems and investing in flood defences, while the latest summit spotlights blue economy growth, green finance, youth innovation, and new partnerships.
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Threats | Sea-level rise, excessive rainfall, coastal erosion, and human encroachment |
| Geographic Data | Lagos is bordered by an 86km Atlantic coastline; rapid urbanisation |
| Government Action | Wetlands and mangroves gazetting; flood defence investments |
| Summit Focus | Blue economy, green finance, youth innovation, partnerships |
The Case for Coastal Protection
Protecting wetlands and mangroves will help in the improvement of enhanced flood mitigation, natural habitat conservation, new streams for green finance, and climate adaptation for millions.
The Lagos strategy seeks to transform vulnerabilities into opportunities, setting an example for African cities facing similar threats.
- Wetlands absorb up to 1.5 million litres of floodwater per hectare
- Mangrove protection may reduce coastal repair costs by 35% over the next decade
Urgent Policy, Private and Community Engagement
| Priority | Implementation Plan |
|---|---|
| Wetlands Protection | Legal gazetting, enforcement begins 2025 |
| Funding for Resilience | Mobilize green finance, international partners |
| Youth Climate Innovation | Targeted empowerment programs at summit |
| Community Engagement | Education, EIA enforcement, participatory planning |
Path Forward: Shaping the Future
Lagos State's proactive measures to secure wetlands and mangroves set the pace for sustainable urban development in Africa.
By harnessing innovation, finance, and partnerships, Lagos is establishing itself as the continent's climate capital and inspiring others to act before irreversible damage occurs.
Culled From: https://www.thisdaylive.com/2025/10/24/lagos-to-gazette-wetlands-mangroves-as-solution-to-coastal-challenge/
