The Lagos State Government has underscored the necessity of implementing early warning systems as a key strategy for mitigating the impacts of climate change and safeguarding the environment.
This call was made by Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), during his presentation at the International Climate Change Conference, COP-29, held in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Speaking on the theme “Climate Mobility Discourse: Early Warning Systems as a Worthy Investment in Environmental Protection against Climate Displacement”, Dr. Ajayi highlighted the critical role of proactive measures, such as integrating green skills and leveraging data, in achieving environmental sustainability.
Dr. Ajayi noted that climate change presents various challenges, including coastal erosion, flooding, cyclical disease patterns, and vector migration. He emphasized the importance of early warning systems, stating, “If we anticipate floods or droughts, early warning systems would help people migrate early, reducing the risks to lives and minimizing the impact of such disasters.”
He further explained that these systems enable timely action to protect lives and property, citing LASEPA’s weekly air quality monitoring as a prime example of using data to detect and mitigate environmental hazards.
Dr. Ajayi stressed that data-driven approaches are vital for predicting and preventing disasters. “Understanding cyclical vector migration patterns using data strengthens health systems and prepares the government to mitigate risks like flooding effectively,” he stated.
He also outlined LASEPA’s focus on climate mobility, ensuring that communities displaced by climate-related challenges are relocated with dignity and sustainable options for improved living standards.
Dr. Ajayi reaffirmed Lagos State’s dedication to addressing climate change through strategic planning, public awareness, and robust policies. “The state government, through LASEPA and other agencies, is committed to deploying early warning systems to enhance human safety and build resilience against climate disasters,” he said.
The LASEPA boss called for collaboration with local and international stakeholders to strengthen the state’s capacity to respond to environmental challenges, emphasizing the importance of integrating science and technology into decision-making processes.
Dr. Ajayi’s presentation at COP-29 placed Lagos State at the forefront of global climate discussions, showcasing its commitment to innovative strategies for combating climate-related challenges. “Our approach combines data, policy frameworks, and community engagement to create a sustainable and adaptive future,” he concluded.
The Lagos State Government’s efforts reflect its resolve to build a resilient and environmentally conscious society, paving the way for other regions to adopt similar proactive measures in addressing climate change.
