Lagos State has taken a bold step towards sustainability with the launch of the inaugural ESG workshop, organised by the Office of the Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy.
The event, held on Friday, brought together stakeholders, innovators, and policymakers to redefine economic strategies through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
Delivering her opening remarks at the event themed ‘Empowering Green Growth: Building Capacity for a Sustainable Circular Economy’, Titilayo Oshodi, special adviser on climate change and circular economy, described the forum as more than a workshop.
“We are pioneers at the forefront of a movement aimed at redefining our economic frameworks through the principles of circular and green economies,” she said.
The forum focused on integrating ESG principles into Lagos’ development agenda, emphasising accountability, collaboration, and innovation.
Oshodi highlighted the state’s commitment to fostering economic growth while protecting natural resources, stating, “Our mission is clear: to align our economic strategies with practices that enhance our communities, protect our natural environment, and foster economic growth that leaves no one behind.”
A key highlight of the forum was the introduction of the ECOnomy Business Network (EBN), an initiative by the Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy (OCCE). The network aims to empower eco-enterprises and promote sustainable business practices.
According to the special adviser, EBN has already supported over 500 eco-enterprises, equipping them with tools, resources, and networks to thrive in an environmentally-conscious marketplace.
“Our collective goal is simple yet profound: to demonstrate that economic growth and environmental accountability can and must coexist,” she added.
The forum explored ESG principles and green financing as avenues for economic advancement while preserving natural resources. Attendees were provided with actionable insights and best practices for integrating circular economy principles into their business models.
Oshodi highlighted other environmental programmes under the OCCE, such as Let Lagos Breathe, Eco-Circulate, and Leave No One Behind. These initiatives address critical environmental challenges while promoting social inclusion and economic growth.
In his keynote address, Mosopefolu George, the commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, who was represented by Lekan Balogun, the special adviser to the governor on economic planning and budget, underscored the urgency of addressing global challenges such as climate change, environmental degradation, and economic inequality. He highlighted Lagos’ leadership role in pioneering sustainability-driven economic growth in Nigeria and Africa.
“As the engine room of commerce, culture, and innovation, Lagos bears both the responsibility and the opportunity to set a global example in sustainability,” the commissioner said. “This gathering is not just a milestone; it is a bold step toward shaping a sustainable, innovative, and inclusive Lagos.”
He disclosed that his ministry has introduced “green budgeting” as a strategic tool to align fiscal policies with the state’s sustainability goals.
The workshop featured collaborations with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), Deloitte, and Access Bank, which provided practical tools and resources for businesses to scale sustainably. These partnerships aim to unlock green financing opportunities, enabling Lagos-based enterprises to innovate and compete in the global market.
Join BusinessDay whatsapp Channel, to stay up to date
Open In Whatsapp
