Sanwo-Olu blue economy vision leads Lagos to host global summit on coastal resilience, innovation, and green finance in November 2025

Sanwo-Olu blue economy strategy is fast positioning Lagos as a pacesetter in Africa’s climate resilience and sustainable development narrative.

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On Sunday, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to unlocking the full potential of the blue economy as a means to generate wealth, attract climate finance, and protect the coastal city against the growing threats of climate change.

Speaking ahead of the 2025 Lagos International Climate Change Summit, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasised that Lagos would continue leading subnational climate action through innovation, sustainable financing, and strategic investments in urban resilience.

Scheduled for 6–7 November 2025 at the Lagos Continental Hotel, the summit will bring together world leaders, investors, climate scientists, and policymakers under the theme: “Blue Economy, Green Money: Financing Africa’s Coastal Resilience and Ocean Innovation.”

According to the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the state is already advancing projects such as blue bonds and nature-based coastal protection systems, positioning Lagos as a model for sustainable urban development in Africa.

“As Africa’s fastest-growing coastal city, Lagos stands at the frontline of both climate risk and innovation,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Our goal is to unlock sustainable financing that protects our people, builds resilience, and drives economic growth through the power of the blue economy.”

The governor’s remarks reflect a clear intent to transform Lagos into a beacon of climate-smart economic growth in the Global South.

By embracing the blue economy — which includes sectors like ocean energy, sustainable fisheries, and mangrove restoration — Lagos aims to combine environmental protection with economic opportunity.

The upcoming climate summit, now in its 11th edition, will serve as more than a forum for dialogue. Wahab noted that it would mark a “powerful declaration” that African cities can shape and finance their own climate-resilient futures.

With the 2025 UN Climate Change Conference on the horizon, the Lagos summit will spotlight African innovation in ocean and coastal resilience — showcasing how cities like Lagos are ready to lead on the world stage.

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The government reiterated that the event would galvanise partnerships, stimulate private and public investment, and amplify Africa’s voice in global climate negotiations.