Science-driven policies are crucial to Lagos’ blue economy and public health- Tokunbo Wahab

Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab has said science must guide Lagos’ coastal planning and public health decisions as the state confronts the growing threats of climate change, flooding, and sea-level rise.

Wahab made the statement while delivering the keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 58th Annual Conference of the Science Association of Nigeria held at Lagos Airport Hotel in Ikeja.

The conference, themed “Science, Coastal Cities, Public Health and Social Equality in the Blue Economy,” brought together scholars, scientists, and policymakers to discuss sustainable development and climate resilience in Nigeria’s coastal communities.

Wahab noted that climate change is no longer a distant threat, citing increasing precipitation and more frequent flooding in Lagos, while many European nations continue to record unprecedented heatwaves.

“Science must remain the foundation of every decision we make regarding our coastal environments because it provides the evidence necessary for governments to design policies and prepare for future risks,” Wahab said.

He explained that the blue economy goes beyond oceans, ports, and fisheries, describing it as a vision of sustainable economic growth driven by water ecosystems while ensuring environmental sustainability and social inclusion.

The commissioner described Lagos as a low-lying coastal megacity with a 187-kilometre coastline, a rapidly growing population, and significant vulnerability to sea-level rise.

According to him, the choices made today on urban planning, infrastructure development, and ecosystem protection will determine the resilience of future generations in Lagos.

“The health of our oceans and our people are inseparable. Polluted waterways lead to disease, while flooding contaminates drinking water and triggers outbreaks of cholera and other waterborne illnesses,” he said.

Wahab added that deteriorating marine ecosystems also threaten food security and nutrition, making climate change a major public health challenge that requires facts, data, and scientific collaboration.

He called for a stronger partnership between government institutions and academic researchers, stressing that collaboration between “Town and Gown” is no longer optional but a necessity for addressing climate and public health challenges.