CEM REPORT, ENVIRONMENT | Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced the state’s commitment to reducing methane emissions by 45 per cent by 2035.
He called for enormous support to address the gaps and bring about solutions to the problems Lagos is facing.
Speaking on a panel with U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John Kerry, the governor stated that the state aims to achieve a reduction of 15 to 20 per cent by 2030 before reaching the ambitious 45 per cent target.
In a statement on his social media accounts, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of partnerships and support in order to successfully meet their targets. He highlighted the significance of honest conversations with real partners, as the success of global efforts to combat climate change relies on the progress and achievements of African nations.
“I spoke about how Lagos carries the problems of two cities. We need to get twice the support to address the gap and bring about solutions. Our political will to cut emissions is fully supported by a regulatory framework to do what is required of us. As a fast-rising economy in Africa, we need all the support of industrialised economies. Any success in any part of the world without African such success would amount to little progress.
“We have set up this target, which aims at cutting methane emission by 15 per cent to 20 per cent in 2030 and by 45 per cent in 2035. However, we will not be able to achieve this goal if we don’t get the support we require. If there are no honest conversations with real partners at this level, our present efforts might take time to get the desired result.”
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Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged that Lagos faces unique challenges as a city that carries the problems of two cities. He emphasized the need for substantial support to address these challenges and find effective solutions. As a rapidly growing economy in Africa, Lagos requires the assistance of industrialized economies to achieve its emission reduction goals.
The governor expressed optimism about the progress of the SCALE initiative, a collaboration between the U.S. Department of State and Bloomberg Philanthropies. The initiative, launched in 2022, seeks to empower subnational champions in C40 Cities to drive climate ambition.
The Global Methane Pledge, launched in 2021 by EU President von der Leyen, has garnered support from at least 150 signatories committed to reducing global methane emissions by 30 per cent by 2030. This commitment spans across various sectors, including energy, agriculture, and waste.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed optimism about a collective effort among nations and cities to achieve their shared goals of protecting the planet and improving the lives of their inhabitants. He reiterated the importance of collective action and collaboration to make a meaningful impact in the fight against climate change.
“It is great news to hear that the SCALE initiative launched last year by the US Department of State and Bloomberg Philanthropies to empower subnational champions in C40 Cities to drive climate ambition, with an initial focus on accelerating implementation of the Global Methane Pledge has received a $372.5 million commitment to support waste sector methane abatement across C40 Cities.
“We look forward to collectively doing more to realise our collective goals to save the planet and improve the lives of our populace.”
With the commitment and ambitious targets set by Lagos State, it is clear that local governments are taking significant steps towards reducing their carbon footprint and creating a sustainable future. The determination of leaders like Governor Sanwo-Olu serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for other regions and cities around the world.
