Lagos, Nigeria – September 18, 2024

The Office of the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy (OCCE) took centre stage at ProPak West Africa 2024, with its unwavering commitment to driving sustainability and spearheading innovative solutions in the circular economy. Speaking during the panel session on “Plastics for a Sustainable Future: Exploring Cross-sectoral Responsibilities, Innovation, and Sustainable Finance,” Special Adviser Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi emphasised the critical role of policy frameworks in the success of waste management and the circular economy.

“We must understand the principles guiding waste management and the circular economy. A strong policy framework is essential for driving its success, ensuring that sustainability is not just a conversation but a practice we adopt across sectors,” Mrs. Oshodi remarked, underscoring the need for a unified and collaborative approach to solving the plastic waste crisis.

As Lagos State continues to evolve into a beacon of sustainable urban development, the OCCE is positioning itself as a vital player in fostering innovation and advancing the circular economy. With plastic pollution becoming an increasing threat to environmental stability, Lagos State has pioneered initiatives under OCCE that promote responsible waste management, recycling, and reducing plastic use across industries.

Mrs. Oshodi further emphasised the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration. “We need the private sector, government, and communities to work together in implementing solutions. The circular economy is an opportunity to transform waste into wealth, but we must all play our part—industries must innovate, governments must regulate, and consumers must shift behaviours.”

Through its robust policy framework, Lagos State is leading by example, implementing programs that promote sustainable practices, such as the Leave No One Behind Initiative, which converts waste into value for marginalised communities. The OCCE is also empowering local businesses through its ECOnomy Business Network, offering investment opportunities and resources for startups focused on sustainability and recycling. These initiatives are contributing to significant socio-economic gains while reducing environmental impacts.

The ProPak West Africa 2024 Conference, a gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers, provided a critical platform for the Lagos State government to reiterate its commitment to global climate goals and the circular economy. “We are not only discussing solutions; we are implementing them,” Mrs. Oshodi stated. “Our goal is to make Lagos a model for circular economy practices, proving that Africa can lead the way in sustainability.”

The OCCE’s dedication to climate action and sustainable development extends beyond policy. The office is actively partnering with the public sector, private and international organisations, and NGOs to drive innovative projects that address Lagos’s most pressing environmental challenges. By investing in circular economy strategies, Lagos State is creating jobs, boosting economic growth, and reducing carbon emissions, setting an example for other cities in Nigeria and across Africa.

In closing, Mrs. Oshodi called for urgent action and collaboration from all stakeholders: “We cannot afford to wait. The future of our planet depends on the actions we take today, and Lagos State is committed to leading the charge for a greener, more sustainable future.”