Lagos, January 7^th, 2024. 

In her first media interview of the year, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, laid out a transformative vision for a sustainable Lagos during an engaging conversation on Lagos Television (LTV). Framing her agenda within the context of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s climate action plan, Mrs. Oshodi positioned Lagos as a city ready to lead Africa’s response to climate challenges through the principles of circular economy and innovative, community-driven solutions. 

“Our vision is clear: Lagos must become a resilient, sustainable mega-city by embedding climate action within a circular economy framework,” Mrs. Oshodi began. She emphasized that this approach addresses critical issues such as waste management, green financing, and public engagement, creating pathways to sustainable urban growth while unlocking economic opportunities. 

At the core of her vision is green financing, underpinned by Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. “Green financing is essential for building sustainable infrastructure, promoting clean energy, and creating job opportunities,” Mrs. Oshodi stated. She explained that ESG principles not only measure Lagos’s environmental impact but also ensure governance quality and social equity. “We’re creating investment-ready opportunities that align with global sustainability standards, making Lagos a prime destination for green investors.” 

Mrs. Oshodi pointed to several ongoing initiatives as evidence of Lagos’s commitment to innovation in climate action. Programs such as Eco-Circulate, which educates residents on waste valorization, and reward-based waste management systems, demonstrate the potential for circular economy practices to drive both environmental and economic benefits. “When people see that their waste can generate cash rewards or community benefits, it shifts mindsets and creates lasting behavior change,” she explained. 

She also highlighted collaborations with key ministries, including agriculture, health, and transportation, to tailor solutions to the unique needs of Lagos residents. These partnerships aim to embed sustainability into everyday life, from reducing food waste in markets to introducing clean energy solutions in urban transit systems. 

A significant aspect of her agenda is ensuring that climate action resonates with communities across Lagos. “Our solutions must reflect the realities of Lagosians,” Mrs. Oshodi said. “For every household generating waste, we demonstrate how to turn that waste into value—whether it’s through recycling, upcycling, or creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs. This ensures that sustainability is not only achievable but also meaningful to people’s lives.” 

Mrs. Oshodi’s vision extends beyond environmental stewardship; it positions Lagos as a hub for green innovation, ripe with investment opportunities. She underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in driving this agenda, calling on stakeholders across government, the private sector, and development organizations to collaborate with OCCE. “We are ready to support businesses and investors looking to align with sustainability goals. OCCE offers the policies, partnerships, and platforms needed to accelerate their position in this space,” she affirmed. 

Concluding her remarks, Mrs. Oshodi declared Lagos’s intent to lead Africa in climate resilience and sustainable urban growth. “Lagos is more than a city; it is a blueprint for what sustainable development can look like in Africa and beyond. By prioritizing adaptability, innovation, and community-driven action, we are not just tackling climate change—we are building a city of the future.” 

For stakeholders across government, industry, and development, Mrs. Oshodi’s vision offers a compelling invitation to join Lagos on its path to sustainability. With OCCE at the helm, the city is poised to deliver solutions that are both transformative and bankable, ensuring Lagos remains a beacon of sustainable progress in the global arena.